Which spark plugs does Toyota use?
Toyota does not rely on a single spark plug supplier; its vehicles typically use spark plugs from Denso or NGK, with the exact model depending on the engine, model year, and market.
Brand partners and plug types commonly used by Toyota
There are two dominant OE brands you’ll encounter in Toyota engines. The following list highlights the typical families you may see, depending on the engine and market.
- Denso — Iridium Power (iridium-tipped), Iridium TT, and Platinum TT lines are common for modern Toyota engines; older copper-core designs may appear on older models.
- NGK — Iridium IX, Platinum Plus, and Copper Core lines are frequently used, especially on engines where NGK is the chosen OE partner or where a cross-reference is provided by retailers.
- Regional/market variations — in some markets, you may encounter plugs from other brands (such as Bosch) in non-OEM replacements or specific regional specs, but the factory spec for most modern Toyotas remains Denso or NGK.
In short, Toyota’s factory plugs come primarily from Denso or NGK, with the exact part number and tip type (copper, platinum, or iridium) driven by the engine family and market.
How to find the exact spark plug for your Toyota
To ensure you get the correct plug, identify your vehicle’s engine family and year, then verify the specification in official Toyota references or a trusted parts source. The steps below help you confirm the right part before purchasing.
- Check the owner's manual or the official service manual for the exact spark plug specification (heat range, thread size, reach, and gap).
- Use your vehicle’s VIN or engine code to look up the OE replacement in Toyota’s official parts catalog or a reputable parts retailer’s cross-reference tool.
- Inspect the current plug or its packaging to confirm the brand (Denso or NGK) and tip type, and use that information to verify a cross-reference if needed.
- Purchase a plug that matches the OEM specification or an equivalent that meets Toyota’s heat-range and gap requirements.
Following these steps will help ensure you select the correct spark plug for your Toyota, since specifications vary by engine family and market.
Market- and model-specific notes
Some newer Toyota engines (including many 2.0L to 3.5L gasoline and hybrid configurations) commonly use iridium or platinum plugs with longer service life, while older or budget-oriented models may use copper-core plugs. In Europe, NGK is frequently listed as the OE supplier for many models, whereas in North America you’ll commonly find Denso or NGK listed as acceptable OEM replacements. Always consult the official catalog or a dealership to confirm the exact plug for your specific vehicle and maintenance interval.
Summary
The short answer is that Toyota does not rely on one single spark plug. Most of its modern engines use OE plugs from Denso or NGK, with the exact model chosen by engine family, year, and market. To replace, refer to the official Toyota specifications or a trusted parts catalog to match the correct heat range, thread size, reach, and gap. When in doubt, a Toyota dealer or qualified mechanic can confirm the right plug for your specific vehicle and driving conditions.
