Is it better to use OEM spark plugs?
When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, one of the essential components to consider is the spark plugs. Spark plugs play a crucial role in the ignition system, ensuring your engine runs smoothly and efficiently. The question of whether to use original equipment manufacturer (OEM) spark plugs or aftermarket alternatives is a common one among car owners. In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of using OEM spark plugs to help you make an informed decision.
What are OEM Spark Plugs?
OEM spark plugs are those manufactured by the same company that produced your vehicle. These plugs are designed to meet the specific requirements of your engine, ensuring optimal performance and compatibility. OEM spark plugs are often considered the "gold standard" for replacement parts, as they are engineered to work seamlessly with your vehicle's systems.
Advantages of Using OEM Spark Plugs
- Compatibility: OEM spark plugs are designed to fit your vehicle's engine perfectly, reducing the risk of installation issues or compatibility problems.
- Performance: OEM spark plugs are engineered to deliver the optimal spark and ignition timing, which can improve your engine's performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions.
- Durability: OEM spark plugs are made to withstand the rigors of your engine's operating conditions, often lasting longer than aftermarket alternatives.
- Warranty: Using OEM spark plugs may help maintain your vehicle's warranty, as some manufacturers require the use of genuine parts for coverage.
By using OEM spark plugs, you can be confident that you're installing components that are specifically designed for your vehicle, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Disadvantages of Using OEM Spark Plugs
- Cost: OEM spark plugs are generally more expensive than aftermarket options, which can be a consideration for some vehicle owners.
- Availability: Depending on the age and model of your vehicle, OEM spark plugs may not always be readily available, which can cause delays in maintenance or repairs.
While the higher cost and potential availability issues are drawbacks to using OEM spark plugs, the benefits of improved performance, compatibility, and durability may outweigh these concerns for many vehicle owners.
Conclusion
In summary, using OEM spark plugs is generally the recommended choice for maintaining your vehicle's performance and longevity. The advantages of compatibility, performance, and durability often outweigh the potential drawbacks of higher cost and limited availability. Ultimately, the decision to use OEM or aftermarket spark plugs will depend on your specific needs, budget, and the requirements of your vehicle. Consulting with a trusted mechanic or your vehicle's manufacturer can help you make the best decision for your car or truck.
Is there a downside to iridium spark plugs?
Cons of Iridium Spark Plugs
The best models use two or three layers of iridium on the central electrode, whereas the cheapest models may use only one thin layer. These can be prone to cracks and impact damage, so for the best results, always invest in a double or triple coated spark plug.
Does it matter if you use OEM spark plugs?
One of the primary benefits of OEM spark plugs is that they ensure compatibility. OEM plugs also tend to have a reputation for quality, lasting as long as the originally installed set. However, this quality and precision come at a price.
What is the life expectancy of OEM spark plugs?
Conventional Spark Plugs: Typically, conventional copper spark plugs should be replaced every 20,000 to 30,000 miles or every two to three years. Platinum Spark Plugs: Platinum spark plugs have a longer lifespan and may last up to 60,000 miles or more before replacement is necessary.
Do aftermarket spark plugs make a difference?
Upgraded spark plugs possess a finer centre electrode, allowing for a sharper, more concentrated spark. This promotes better combustion, improving throttle response, increased power output, and enhanced fuel efficiency.
What are the best spark plugs for high mileage vehicles?
Platinum spark plugs boast longevity and resistance to fouling. Since platinum is harder, it holds its sharp edge much longer than a conventional spark plug, up to 100,000 miles. Platinum spark plugs come in two varieties - single and double platinum.
What brand is the best spark plug?
Bad spark plugs undermine your engine's performance. Some of the best spark plug brands are NGK, Bosch, AC Delco, Denso, Champion, and GenuineXL. Factors you should consider when purchasing new spark plugs are the thread size, recommended use, and cost.
What are the best quality spark plugs?
Bad spark plugs undermine your engine's performance. Some of the best spark plug brands are NGK, Bosch, AC Delco, Denso, Champion, and GenuineXL. Factors you should consider when purchasing new spark plugs are the thread size, recommended use, and cost.
What is the best spark plug brand?
Bad spark plugs undermine your engine's performance. Some of the best spark plug brands are NGK, Bosch, AC Delco, Denso, Champion, and GenuineXL. Factors you should consider when purchasing new spark plugs are the thread size, recommended use, and cost.
Do iridium spark plugs increase horsepower?
It can be highly beneficial for the people who stay in areas where it's necessary to catch up to the highway speeds quickly for staying safe. The spark plug manufacturers are unanimous about the fact that iridium spark plugs can considerably improve the engine power.
Are cheap spark plugs just as good as expensive ones?
Simply put, if the engine was designed to run on cheap spark plugs, it'll run better on cheap spark plugs than on expensive ones.
