Spark Plugs?

Question

What is so special about iridium spark plugs are they worth the cost that they run for?

Do they give more horsepower?

Answer 1

iridium plugs do last 100k miles before being worn out. the main reason manufacturers use them is some cars and trucks have plugs that are very hard to get to and change. many hours involved changing them. if you only have to change the plugs every 5 years or so, the cost is bearable. if you put a standard plug in the vehicle that came with iridium plugs, the cost would be substantial to replace them every year or two due to the labor charge. they do not increase the horspower of a vehicle. so, if the plugs are hard to change, they are worth it.

Answer 2

Regular Platinum Spark plugs last 50k miles give or take the cheap Copper Core plugs last you from 10-25k miles roughly. Iridium Plugs can easily last 100k miles I have heard from many of my automotive friends. If you don't like having to get them changed often and or ok with the price then go Iridium. I run the Copper core myself cause I change them out when needed and Im a gearhead so the work doesn't bother. Plus for my car the copper core are better for performance. Just kind of depends on your preference and if you don't mind changing them out often. The Iridium are worth it if your one of those people that just puts gas in the car and drives it nothing more they will allow you to not worry about getting your plugs changed for quite a while.

Answer 3

Hmmm I had to read up on this myself. Here is a web page that talks about iridium plugs http://www.sparkplugs.co.uk/pages/technical/iridium_spark_plugs.htm
Are they worth the extra money? I guess it depends on what type of engine and what type of modifications.

I always say to use what the manufacturer suggests. Vehicles are engineered by very educated professionals that make decisions based on longevity, performance and environmental laws. I don't think I have enough education to second guess them so I try to use what they suggest with very few exceptions.

Answer 4

Yes, Iridium is a harder metal with a much higher melting point. They should last longer. I will go out and get a set and see how they work. I have always used platinum but dont get 50K out of a set, usually get 25-30 K out of a set and 15K out of regular ones.

Answer 5

They definately last for a long time and degrade slower than platinum. It is a good investment if you plan on keeping youre car for a while.

Answer 6

the claim is they last longer. i dont think they are worth half what a regular plug costs. my car did not like them, it ran crappy on them. i went back to NGK, it runs like new again, and its got like 300 thousand miles on it.