How often should you change spark plugs on a Honda CR-V?
The quick answer: for most modern CR-Vs with iridium or platinum plugs, you’ll typically replace them around every 100,000 miles under normal driving. If your CR-V still uses copper plugs, expect changes around 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Always check your specific model year and engine in the owner's manual or with a Honda dealer.
What this means in practice is that spark plug replacement is a routine maintenance item tied to engine design and plug material. Honda’s maintenance schedules for recent CR-V generations generally target long intervals for advanced plugs, but variations exist by generation and driving habits.
Recommended intervals by plug material
Intervals vary by plug type and driving style; the list below covers typical factory guidance for recent CR-V engines. If you drive under harsher conditions, expect to replace sooner.
- Iridium or platinum spark plugs: about 100,000 miles (160,000 kilometers) before replacement under normal driving conditions.
- Copper spark plugs: commonly around 30,000 to 60,000 miles, and often shorter for severe driving or subpar maintenance; note that copper plugs are seldom factory-fitted on newer CR-Vs.
In short, most CR-V owners using modern iridium/platinum plugs will target roughly 100,000 miles, while copper plugs demand more frequent changes and can vary with conditions.
Considerations for severe driving and age
Severe service—such as frequent short trips, towing, or driving in extreme heat or cold—can shorten plug life. Engine design across CR-V generations also influences durability; some engines tolerate longer intervals, while others may require closer checks as they accumulate miles.
- Short trips and frequent stops promote plug fouling and deposits, potentially reducing interval length.
- Heavy payload towing or aggressive driving increases cylinder pressure and wear on plugs.
- Fuel quality, ignition coil health, and proper ignition timing affect plug longevity.
Therefore, consider inspecting plugs and related ignition components around 60,000–90,000 miles if you regularly experience harsh driving or if you notice any performance issues.
Symptoms that indicate replacement is due
Beyond mileage, look for warning signs that plug wear has progressed. Addressing these early can prevent misfires and engine damage.
- Rough idle, engine misfires, or hesitation during acceleration
- Decreased fuel efficiency or loss of power
- Difficulty starting the engine or rough starts
- Visible wear on plug tips or deposits in the combustion chamber
- Check Engine Light with misfire codes (P0301–P0304, etc.)
If you observe any of these symptoms, schedule a spark plug inspection or replacement with a qualified technician.
Summary
For most modern Honda CR-Vs equipped with iridium or platinum plugs, the standard maintenance interval is about 100,000 miles under normal driving. Copper plugs require more frequent changes, and severe driving can shorten the interval further. Always verify the exact schedule for your model year in the owner's manual or with a Honda dealer, and monitor engine performance between service visits.
