Can I use a standard spark plug if my vehicle manufacturer recommends a high performance plug?
Due to advancements in spark plug designs, precious metal spark plugs are becoming increasingly common as original equipment in newly manufactured vehicles. In the past, most vehicle manufacturers have installed traditional nickel spark plugs and consumers have had the choice of using the standard OE part, or a more expensive precious metal plug for enhanced performance and life gains. As vehicle manufacturers decide the advantages of higher performance plugs are worth the extra cost, these high performance plugs are coming standard in more and more vehicles. When these vehicles are due for a tune up, owners may wonder “Can I substitute the precious metal plug for a less expensive standard nickel or single platinum, etc. spark plug?” While vehicles that have OE standard spark plugs will benefit from the advantages of high performance plugs, replacing an OE high performance plug with a lower performance standard spark plug can result in loss of performance or even severe engine damage.
