How Long Do Platinum Spark Plugs Last? [Answered]

Platinum is a valuable metal; the quantity used on a platinum spark plug differs, affecting its durability.

The average platinum spark plug has a lifespan of 60,000 miles, but long-life variants have a lifespan of 100,000 miles.

Spark plugs improve engine efficiency and are available in numerous materials, with platinum, copper, and iridium plugs being the most common.

Even 60,000 miles of using it is still more than a copper spark plug, which typically only lasts 30,000 miles or more.

On the center electrode of the platinum spark plug is a platinum disc. Platinum has a much higher temperature than copper and is a much harder metal. So, they last longer than copper plugs.

When to Replace Spark Plugs? 

The video discusses spark plugs, when to replace them in car engines, and which spark plugs are appropriate for your vehicle.

Spark plugs are instruments that ignite the air-fuel mixture in an internal combustion engine by firing a spark once for each revolution to start the car and keep it running.

It’s common to have one spark plug per cylinder so that a six-cylinder engine would have six spark plugs.

However, some manufacturers use two spark plugs per cylinder, so check with your manufacturer to ensure you’re getting the right quotation at the local shops.

With modern-day technology, spark plugs can last up to 100,000 miles or more when serviced every 15,000 to 30,000 miles.

Computer systems in modern vehicles notify you when a spark plug needs to be replaced, so you don’t have to keep track of it.

Most spark plugs are made of copper, but most automakers now use iridium or platinum for reliability and performance.

Each vehicle is designed to work with a specific type of spark plug. If you’re replacing spark plugs, make sure you get the right one for your engine.

Using the wrong spark plug will cause your engine to misfire or damage your catalytic converter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Copper or platinum spark plugs?

Because platinum spark plugs are less conductive and likely to overheat, they function at a lower level than copper spark plugs.

However, platinum has a longer lifespan than copper plugs. On the other hand, Copper has the best performance of the two but the shortest lifespan.

Is it necessary to replace my spark plugs regularly?

Your vehicle’s manufacturer specifies the replacement interval. The interval may change if you replace your spark plugs.

When driving on LPG or CNG, the spark plug life span is reduced by 25-30%. 

What to consider when selecting a spark plug?

To get the efficiency you want from your engine, you must use the proper heat range.

The distributor spark plug and heat range is the best option for most vehicles. Check your instruction manual to know which spark plug is right for your car.

Is it necessary to lubricate the spark plug thread?

When a lubricant is applied to the thread, the tensioning of the spark plug tends to increase when the same torque is applied; this can result in spark plug damage. The spark plug will be delivered pre-lubricated in such instances.

Will replacing my spark plugs improve performance?

Improvements in power output of up to 5% have been calculated. The difference isn’t as significant because high-performance spark plugs are commonly used in modern engines.

Generally, the main performance enhancements include a smoother starting and running of the engine.