Do acuras have spark plugs?
Yes, most Acura vehicles with internal combustion engines use spark plugs to ignite the air-fuel mixture. Acura’s all-electric models, such as the ZDX introduced in 2024, do not require spark plugs. This article explains how spark plugs fit into Acura vehicles, what owners should expect for maintenance, and how to tell when they need service.
Gasoline-powered Acura engines
How spark plugs work in these engines
In most Acura gasoline engines, there is typically one spark plug per cylinder, paired with an ignition coil per cylinder (coil-on-plug). The spark plug ignites the air-fuel mixture at the exact moment the engine control unit (ECU) determines is optimal for power and efficiency. Direct injection is common in many Acura engines, but it does not remove the need for a spark plug—the ignition system and the fuel injection system work together to run the engine.
Before exploring maintenance and intervals, note that Acura uses a range of plug designs, often with iridium- or platinum-tipped electrodes for longer life. The exact replacement interval depends on the model, engine design, and plug type, so always follow the manufacturer’s specification in your owner’s manual.
- Typically one spark plug per cylinder with coil-on-plug ignition in most Acura gasoline engines.
- Many engines use long-life iridium or platinum plugs to extend service intervals.
- Direct injection engines still require spark plugs; fuel delivery does not replace ignition.
In short, spark plugs are a standard component in Acura’s gasoline-powered vehicles, and maintenance schedules vary by model and plug type.
Electric and hybrid Acura models
Electric models and what that means for spark plugs
Fully electric Acura models, such as the ZDX introduced for the 2024 model year, do not have internal combustion engines and therefore do not use spark plugs. The absence of an engine means no ignition system in the traditional sense. However, some Acura models that incorporate hybrid technology still have a gasoline engine portion that uses spark plugs in the usual way.
- Fully electric Acura models: no spark plugs in the drive system.
- Hybrid or plug-in hybrid models: the gasoline portion still uses spark plugs just like a conventional engine.
Overall, whether an Acura has spark plugs depends on the drivetrain: electric models do not, while gasoline and hybrid powertrains do.
Maintenance tips and signs of wear
What to watch for and how to maintain
Worn or fouled spark plugs can cause rough running, misfires, reduced power, and lower fuel efficiency. Common signs you might need spark plug service include rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, a check engine light, or trouble starting the car. Regular maintenance should follow the OEM-recommended replacement interval, which varies by engine design and plug type (often ranging from roughly 60,000 to 100,000 miles for modern, long-life plugs).
- Rough idle or engine misfires
- Reduced acceleration and power
- Lower fuel economy and increased emissions
- Check engine light or diagnostic trouble codes related to ignition
- Difficulty starting in cold weather or after engine is warm
Conscientious maintenance—using the correct plug type and following the schedule in your owner’s manual—helps ensure smooth starts, optimal performance, and efficiency across both gasoline and hybrid Acura models. For electric models, routine checks focus on the battery and electric drivetrain instead of spark plugs.
Bottom line
If your Acura has a gasoline or hybrid powertrain, it uses spark plugs just like other contemporary combustion engines. If you drive a fully electric Acura model, there are no spark plugs involved in the drive system. Always consult your specific model’s manual for the exact replacement interval and plug specifications, and have a qualified technician perform maintenance to avoid ignition issues.
Summary
Spark plugs are standard in Acura vehicles with internal combustion engines, ensuring ignition and engine performance. Acura’s all-electric models do not use spark plugs, while hybrids retain a gasoline engine with spark plugs. Check your model’s maintenance schedule for exact intervals and seek professional service if you notice signs of misfiring or reduced performance.
