Copper, Platinum, or Iridium Spark Plugs

Q: What are different types of spark plugs?

A: At the end of the spark plug wires are the spark plugs. Spark plugs are screwed into the cylinder head, exposing the tip in the combustion chamber. The tip of a spark plug has a ground electrode and a center electrode. These electrodes have to withstand thousands of volts and extreme heat. The center electrode on a spark plug is commonly made of copper, platinum, or iridium. Platinum plugs last much longer than regular conventional copper spark plugs. Platinum spark plugs can be single or double platinum. Single platinum plugs one have platinum on the center electrode. Double (or dual) platinum plugs have a platinum center electrode and a platinum pad on the negative electrode. The spark occurs between these two electrodes. Platinum resists corrosion and extreme heat, maintaining the required gap for long periods of time. Platinum spark plugs are generally guaranteed for 100,000 miles. Iridium, a metal within the platinum family, is considered the most corrosion-resistant metal. Use the spark plugs recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.