How many spark plugs does a Ford Explorer have?
The Ford Explorer typically has either four spark plugs (for four-cylinder engines) or six spark plugs (for six-cylinder engines). The exact count depends on your model year and engine option.
To determine the precise number for your vehicle, you need to know which engine it uses. Over the years, Ford has offered four-cylinder EcoBoost and several V6 configurations in the Explorer, so the spark plug count tracks the engine’s cylinder count rather than the year alone.
Engine options and spark plug counts
Four-cylinder configurations and their spark plug count:
Four-cylinder options
- 2.3L EcoBoost I4 — 4 spark plugs
Four-cylinder Explorers use four spark plugs, corresponding to the engine’s four cylinders.
Six-cylinder options
- 3.0L EcoBoost V6 — 6 spark plugs
- 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 — 6 spark plugs
- 4.0L SOHC V6 (older generations) — 6 spark plugs
- Hybrid variants with a V6 gas engine (commonly around 3.3L) — 6 spark plugs
Six-cylinder Explorers use six spark plugs, one for each cylinder.
Maintenance considerations
Understanding the spark plug count is part of scheduling maintenance. Check your owner's manual for the recommended replacement interval for your exact engine, as modern plugs (iridium or platinum varieties) can last longer than older copper plugs. When replacing plugs, use OEM or equivalent high-quality plugs and consider replacing ignition wires or coils if symptoms of misfire appear.
Always verify the engine type on your specific vehicle to know the precise number of spark plugs and follow Ford’s maintenance guidance for your model year.
Summary
In essence, a Ford Explorer has four spark plugs if it uses a four-cylinder engine, and six spark plugs if it uses a six-cylinder engine. Modern Explorers commonly feature a 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder (4 plugs) or one of several six-cylinder configurations (6 plugs). Always confirm your exact engine to know the precise count.
