Without a fully functioning set of spark plugs igniting the fuel inside your car’s combustion chambers, your engine will rapidly start misfiring and lose power. It’s best to know in advance when you’re likely to need to replace your plugs. How long they last all depends on the type of plugs you’re using. Let’s look at how often you’re likely to need to visit your nearest Hyundai dealer for a new spark plug.
How Often Should You Replace Your Hyundai’s Spark Plugs?
The lifespan of a spark plug depends largely on how well the metal of its electrode can resist heat. Over enough time, even the toughest of plugs will become fouled by the extreme temperatures inside the combustion chamber.
These days, there are three main types of plugs: copper, platinum, and iridium plugs. Each type has varying levels of conductivity, hardness, and heat resistance. The longevity of your plugs will depend on which type your car is using.
Copper Plugs Last About 20,000 Miles
When it comes to conductivity, you can’t beat copper. The problem is that copper isn’t a very hard metal and has a relatively low melting point. Copper plugs don’t often last much longer than 20,000 miles: about one and a half years for the average driver.
Platinum Plugs Last About 60,000 Miles
You have far better longevity with platinum plugs due to the heat resistance and toughness of platinum. Platinum plugs tend to last about 60,000 miles (four years) but platinum has worse conductivity than copper and so platinum plugs may not spark quite as efficiently.
Iridium Plugs Last About 100,000 Miles
You can expect premium iridium plugs to last up to 100,000 miles (seven years) because iridium is six times harder than platinum, with a much higher melting point. Iridium plugs are also as conductive and efficient as copper plugs because the hardness of iridium allows for extremely thin electrodes that require less voltage to generate sparks.
Ask Your Hyundai Dealer Which Plugs You Can Use
Your vehicle owner’s manual will tell you which type of plugs are best suited for your car. If you’re currently using copper plugs, you may be able to upgrade to platinum or iridium plugs. Likewise, if you’re using platinum plugs, you may be able to upgrade to iridium plugs.
In almost all cases, it’s not a good idea to go in the opposite direction: don’t try to downgrade from iridium to platinum or platinum to copper. Downgrading will often hinder an engine’s performance and might lead to misfiring and other malfunctions. If you’re unsure, ask a trusted technician at your local dealership if an upgrade would work for your vehicle.
Visit Crain Hyundai of Bentonville today to have your plugs inspected, upgraded, cleaned, or replaced. We’re the local go-to dealership for all Hyundai purchasing, financing, or servicing needs.
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