How much does it cost to replace spark plugs in a Honda CRV?
In most cases, you’ll pay roughly $150 to $300 to have spark plugs replaced on a Honda CR-V at a shop, while doing it yourself can bring the cost down to about $50 to $100 for parts. Actual prices vary by engine type and local labor rates.
What affects the price
Several factors influence the final bill: engine type and access difficulty, spark plug type, regional labor rates, and whether you replace only plugs or also ignition coils and related components. The CR-V has used different engines across generations, which affects both part costs and the ease of access.
Costs can vary by model year and engine option. The CR-V has ranged from older 2.4-liter engines to newer 1.5-liter turbo variants, each with different plug types and service considerations.
- Parts cost: Four spark plugs (CR-V’s four-cylinder setup). Depending on brand and type (copper, platinum, iridium), plugs can cost about $4-$25 each. Total parts: roughly $16-$100.
- Labor cost: Accessing and replacing plugs typically takes 0.5–1.5 hours on most CR-V engines. At typical shop rates, expect about $50-$210 in labor.
- Additional items: If ignition coils or wires are due for replacement, or if the intake manifold must be removed for access, those costs add. Some cars may require coil replacement if misfiring is present or if parts show wear.
- Shop fees and taxes: Some shops add a diagnostic, disposal fee, or state/local taxes to the total.
Overall, most drivers can expect the total to land in the $150-$300 range at an independent shop, and higher at a dealership or for complex access. DIY can drop the total to roughly $50-$120, depending on plug type and whether you already own tools.
Cost by engine variant
CR-V engines vary by generation. Here are ballpark price ranges for common configurations to illustrate how costs differ between older and newer models.
Note: Actual parts and labor costs vary by region and shop, but the ranges below reflect typical US prices as of 2024–2025.
- 1.5L turbo (most recent generations): Four iridium/platinum plugs. Parts typically $40-$100 total; labor about 1.0–1.5 hours; total in the range of $150-$320.
- 2.4L or earlier 4-cylinder (pre-2012 CR-V): Four platinum or copper plugs. Parts typically $16-$60 total; labor about 0.5–1.0 hour; total around $70-$180.
In summary, the engine type and plug design are the biggest cost drivers. Turbo models with longer-life plugs can push parts costs higher, while older engines tend to be cheaper to service due to more straightforward access and lower-priced plugs.
Where to get it done and saving tips
To save money, consider shopping around for quotes, asking for a price breakdown, and verifying whether the shop uses OEM or equivalent plugs. If you’re comfortable with basic car maintenance, a DIY replacement can significantly reduce the total cost, provided you have the right tools and torque specs.
- Shop around for quotes from independent mechanics and dealers; request a line-item price for parts and labor.
- Ask whether ignition coils or wires are included or recommended for replacement at the same time.
- Compare plug options (copper vs platinum vs iridium) and their expected service life and warranty.
- If you DIY: confirm correct torque specs, gap settings, and any OEM service bulletin recommendations for your CR-V model year.
With careful planning and accurate quotes, you can optimize the balance between cost, performance, and reliability for your Honda CR-V’s spark plug replacement.
Summary
For most Honda CR-V owners, spark plug replacement costs range from about $150 to $300 at an independent shop, with dealer quotes often higher. DIY parts-only costs typically fall in the $50 to $120 range. The exact price depends on engine variant, plug type, labor rates, and whether any related components (like coils or wires) are replaced at the same time. Always request a breakdown and compare a few shops to get the best value.
