How much do 4 new spark plugs cost?

For most cars, four spark plugs cost about $32–$100 for parts, and installation can bring the total to roughly $100–$300 depending on engine design and local labor rates.

Spark plug types and price ranges

Prices vary by material and design. The following ranges reflect common options sold for passenger cars in the United States as of 2024–2025.

• Copper-core plugs: typically $2–$5 each; four plugs about $8–$20 for parts.


• Platinum plugs: typically $6–$12 each; four plugs about $24–$48 for parts.


• Iridium plugs: typically $8–$25 each; four plugs about $32–$100 for parts.

Note: Some premium or OEM plugs can fall outside these ranges, and prices vary by brand, retailer, and promotions. Always check your vehicle's owner manual for the recommended type and gap settings.

Choosing by vehicle and performance needs

The right choice depends on your vehicle, maintenance schedule, and performance goals. Iridium plugs tend to last longer and sustain performance in high-performance or modern engines, while copper plugs are a budget-friendly option for older or simpler engines. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended type and interval for replacement to avoid gaps in ignition or fuel efficiency.

Labor costs and total installed price

Labor costs depend on engine design, accessibility of spark plugs, and the shop's hourly rate. Replacing all four plugs on a typical 4‑cylinder or 6‑cylinder engine is usually quicker than on engines with complex layouts or deep access.

• Do-it-yourself (DIY): If you buy only parts, you pay only the price of the plugs; there is no labor charge, but you need basic tools and some time (roughly 0.5–2 hours).


• Professional installation: Labor times commonly range from about 0.5–2 hours, with shop rates often between $60–$120 per hour (some areas higher or lower).

In practice, a four-plug job at a shop typically falls into these installed-price ranges: copper plugs installed around $50–$200, platinum around $90–$240, and iridium around $100–$300. Exact totals depend on your vehicle, local rates, and whether additional services are included.

What affects the final price

Several factors can influence the final cost beyond the base price of the plugs themselves. The following common drivers shape the total you’ll pay.

• Vehicle type and access: engines with difficult spark-plug access or overhead-cam layouts require more labor time.


• OEM vs aftermarket: OEM plugs may carry higher sticker prices but can be recommended by the manufacturer for certain engines.


• Regional pricing: labor rates vary widely by region and shop type (independent vs dealership).


• Additional services: replacing ignition coils, applying anti-seize where recommended, or performing a misfire diagnostic can add to the price.

When budgeting, count both parts and potential related services so you’re prepared for the total bill you're likely to face.

Summary

Replacing four spark plugs typically costs $32–$100 for parts, with total installed prices (parts plus labor) commonly ranging from about $100 to $300 depending on plug type and vehicle. Copper plugs are the cheapest option, followed by platinum and iridium, which offer longer life but higher upfront costs. DIY replacement saves labor, while professional installation ensures proper torque and wiring considerations. Always use the plug type and replacement interval recommended by your vehicle manufacturer, and factor in local labor rates when budgeting.

How much to fit 4 spark plugs?

The average cost of replacing a set of spark plugs is £85, with prices ranging from £55 and £125.

Is replacing spark plugs a big job?

Absolutely, replacing spark plugs is definitely an DIY job, especially if you're comfortable with basic car maintenance! Just follow a tutorial, take your time, and ensure the engine is cool before you start. Also, double-check you have the right replacement plugs and that you gap them correctly if needed.

How much does it cost to replace 4 spark plugs?

The cost to replace four spark plugs typically ranges from $100 to $250, but can be higher or lower depending on factors like the vehicle's make and model, the type of spark plugs used, and whether you do it yourself. For a four-cylinder engine with standard plugs, a professional job might be around $100-$250, while DIY replacement could be as low as $20-$50. 
Cost breakdown

• Parts: Spark plugs can range from about $2-$10 each for basic copper plugs to $8-$30 or more for high-performance iridium plugs. For four plugs, parts could cost anywhere from $10 to over $100. 
• Labor: A mechanic's labor cost depends on the time it takes to access the plugs, which is often influenced by the engine's complexity. For a four-cylinder engine, labor might be around $40-$80, but it can be higher for other vehicles. 
• DIY: If you have the right tools and mechanical skills, you can save on labor costs by replacing the plugs yourself. A simple job on an accessible four-cylinder engine might only cost $20-$50 for the parts and take about an hour. 

Factors that affect the final price

• Vehicle make and model: Access to the spark plugs can vary greatly between cars, which impacts labor time and cost. 
• Spark plug type: Higher-performance plugs like iridium or platinum are more expensive than standard copper plugs but can last longer. 
• Additional parts: In some cases, other components like ignition coils or spark plug wires may also need replacement, which will add to the total cost. 

Why are spark plugs so expensive?

Spark plugs are more expensive due to the use of precious, durable metals like iridium and platinum, increased manufacturing precision to meet modern engine requirements, and higher labor costs from difficult access in newer vehicles. 
Material costs

• Precious metals: Modern spark plugs use materials like platinum and iridium, which are more durable and have longer lifespans than the older copper plugs. This is a significant cost increase compared to the past when copper plugs were the standard. 
• Increased efficiency: The use of these materials helps engines run more efficiently and meet strict emissions standards, but adds to the upfront part cost. 

Manufacturing and design

• Precision engineering: Today's spark plugs are manufactured to very precise specifications for specific engine types, requiring more complex and expensive production processes.
• Specialized plugs: Many vehicles require specific, specialized plugs designed for their make and model, further driving up costs. 

Labor and accessibility

• Difficult access: In many modern cars, spark plugs are buried under components like the intake manifold and ignition coils, which must be removed for replacement. 
• Higher labor time: This difficult access significantly increases the time and complexity of the job for a mechanic, leading to higher labor charges.