When you’re looking for long-life spark plugs, you’ll see two names: platinum and iridium. Both are excellent choices that last for tens of thousands of miles. But is one truly better, and more importantly, does your specific car even need the top-of-the-line option?
Going in-depth into Iridium vs Platinum spark plug will let us know more about the electrical spark in your car.
Contents
- Iridium vs Platinum Spark Plug: Which One Is Better?
- The Verdict: So, Which One Is Better?
- FAQs on Iridium vs Platinum Spark Plug
- Are iridium spark plugs worth the higher cost?
- When should I replace iridium or platinum spark plug?
- Can I switch between iridium and platinum spark plugs in my car?
- Are there any drawbacks to using Iridium vs Platinum spark plug?
- Can iridium or platinum spark plugs improve my car’s performance?
- Can I install iridium or platinum spark plugs myself, or should I have a professional do it?
- Do iridium spark plug vs platinum spark plug require any special maintenance or care?
- Are there any specific driving conditions where iridium or platinum spark plugs are particularly beneficial?
Iridium vs Platinum Spark Plug: Which One Is Better?
The production and utilization of high voltage current takes place inside the Combustion Chamber. A metallic spark plug ignites the fuel vapor and air mixture to turn “ON” the engine.
Spark plug and ignition coil produce a high voltage spark inside the chamber to move the car. All the spark plugs have the same job of igniting the mixture inside the engine.
The different types of metals used to design spark plugs have their advantages and drawbacks. Let us talk about the pros and cons of various metal spark plugs!
1. Duration
Iridium spark plugs offer the longest lifespan for your vehicle. These spark plugs are well known for accomplishing the 50,000-mile mark without any issues.
Platinum-made spark plugs go a little longer than copper plugs, but do not last 25,000 miles. This can be the chief difference between iridium and platinum spark plugs. Choosing Iridium spark plugs over Platinum ones would be the ultimate choice.
2. Performance
Iridium spark plugs are the widely used plugs in this day and age. The spark plugs made of other metals can result in a shuddering engine start, whereas Iridium plugs make the ignition smoother.
Platinum spark plugs are not that reliable compared to Iridium plugs. These result in a jerky engine start that affects the performance of the car for sure.
3. Price
Iridium spark plugs are a little more expensive than the copper and platinum ones. These plugs might be the pre-eminent spark plugs in the market, but they are highly expensive, too. The price is another major difference when you compare Iridium vs Platinum spark plug.
Platinum spark plugs are a great choice when you look for cheap and affordable spark plugs in the market.
The Verdict: So, Which One Is Better?
The short, technical answer is: Iridium is the superior spark plug in every way. It’s harder, lasts longer, and provides the best possible spark.
But that’s not the whole story. The most important factor isn’t which plug is “better” in a lab, but which one is right for you.
This is the most critical piece of advice a mechanic can give you. If your car’s manufacturer equipped it with iridium plugs from the factory, it’s because the engine’s high-energy ignition system requires them to function correctly.
The engine is tuned for the specific, efficient spark that an iridium plug provides. Never downgrade a car that requires iridium plugs to platinum ones. Doing so can cause poor performance, reduced fuel economy, and even engine misfires.
If your car came with platinum plugs (or even older copper plugs), you can safely use a platinum-gold upgrade to iridium.
Choose Iridium if
- Your owner’s manual specifies iridium plugs. This is non-negotiable.
- You want the absolute longest possible lifespan between changes.
- You want the best possible performance and efficiency, and you’re willing to pay a little extra for it.
Choose Platinum if
- Your car originally came with platinum or standard copper plugs.
- You want a huge upgrade in lifespan over copper without the higher cost of iridium. It’s an excellent and very reliable middle ground.
FAQs on Iridium vs Platinum Spark Plug
Are iridium spark plugs worth the higher cost?
Iridium spark plugs are generally more expensive than platinum or copper plugs. However, they often provide better performance, fuel efficiency, and longer service life.
Whether they are worth the higher cost depends on your specific driving needs and budget.
When should I replace iridium or platinum spark plug?
Both iridium and platinum spark plugs have longer lifespans compared to copper plugs. Manufacturers typically recommend replacing iridium plugs vs platinum every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (96,000 to 160,000 kilometers).
However, it’s essential to follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific make and model.
Can I switch between iridium and platinum spark plugs in my car?
In most cases, you can switch between the two without issues, as long as they are compatible with your vehicle’s engine.
It’s advisable to consult your vehicle’s manual or a mechanic to ensure the best plug type for your specific engine and driving conditions.
Are there any drawbacks to using Iridium vs Platinum spark plug?
While both types of spark plugs offer numerous benefits, they come at a higher cost than standard copper plugs.
Some may consider this cost a drawback. Additionally, platinum and iridium spark plugs may not provide substantial performance gains in older or less demanding engines.
Can iridium or platinum spark plugs improve my car’s performance?
Iridium and platinum spark plugs can improve ignition performance and fuel efficiency, which may lead to a modest increase in overall engine performance.
The extent of improvement varies depending on the engine’s condition and other factors.
Can I install iridium or platinum spark plugs myself, or should I have a professional do it?
If you have experience with spark plug replacement and the necessary tools, you can install iridium or platinum spark plugs yourself.
If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the process, it’s best to have a professional mechanic install it to avoid any potential issues.
Do iridium spark plug vs platinum spark plug require any special maintenance or care?
Iridium and platinum spark plugs are relatively low-maintenance, but it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for gap specifications and replacement intervals.
Regular inspections during routine maintenance can help ensure they are performing optimally. Additionally, avoid over-tightening when installing spark plugs to prevent damage to the threads.
Are there any specific driving conditions where iridium or platinum spark plugs are particularly beneficial?
These spark plugs can provide benefits in various driving conditions, but they are especially valuable in modern, high-performance engines and vehicles with advanced ignition systems.
They excel in conditions requiring consistent ignition performance, such as stop-and-go city driving, highway cruising, and extreme temperatures.
In contrast, their advantages may be less pronounced in older vehicles with less demanding ignition requirements.
Check out this video from Project Farm to learn more about the best spark plug design!
That’s all! These were some chief differences that come into the spotlight while comparing Iridium vs Platinum spark plug. Hence, keep these vital tips in mind to make your choice for an incredible worth of spark plug.
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