The average spark plugs replacement cost is $222. This includes $81 for parts and approximately $141 for labor costs, depending on local mechanics’ rates. The exact price will depend on your vehicle.

How long does it take to replace spark plugs? It takes about 1.2 hours for a certified mechanic to replace your spark plugs. Make sure you call ahead, in case the mechanic doesn’t have your model’s spark plugs in the shop.

Take a look at some sample spark plugs replacement costs, sorted by model:

Estimate Date	Customer	Car	Fair Cost Estimate	Parts Cost	Labor Cost	Labor Time
November 22, 2024	Elmer, 20 Peoria, IL	Alfa Romeo Giulia	$116	$57	$59	0.5 Hours
November 20, 2024	Elizabeth, 25 Philadelphia, PA	Acura ILX	$110	$57	$53	0.5 Hours
November 13, 2024	Richard, 36 Memphis, TN	Mini Cooper	$181	$86	$95	0.8 Hours
November 11, 2024	Marie, 40 Westfield, IN	Kia Spectra	$119	$57	$62	0.5 Hours
November 10, 2024	Winnie, 41 Buckeye, AZ	Fiat 500X	$173	$86	$87	0.8 Hours

How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.

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What parts do I need for my spark plugs replacement and how much do those parts cost?

While parts and costs vary by model and the type of car engine, here’s a general list of parts:

Spark Plugs: You'll need a set of spark plugs. The spark plugs cost typically ranges from $2 to $10 per plug. The total average cost will depend on the number of cylinders your car has. Recommended brands are NGK, Denso, and Bosch.

Spark Plug Wires (if applicable): Some cars have individual ignition coils instead of spark plug wires. If your car has spark plug wires, a set may cost around $20 to $100, depending on the quality and brand. We recommend brands like NGK, Denso, and ACDelco.

Ignition Coils

(if applicable): For cars with individual ignition coils, you might need to

replace

one or more coils if they are worn out. The cost per coil can range from $20 to $100. Recommended brands include Delphi, Bosch, and Denso.

Ignition Coil Boots (if applicable): If your car has a coil-on-plug system, you may need to replace the boots that connect the coils to the spark plugs. These can cost around $5 to $20 each. We recommend brands like NGK, Denso, and ACDelco.

Dielectric Grease

: It's a good idea to apply dielectric grease to the spark plug boots to ensure a proper seal. A small packet usually costs less than $5. Recommended brands are Permatex, CRC Industries, and ACDelco.

You can check your owner’s manual for a list of specific part numbers, or look them up on the manufacturer’s website.

You can buy replacement spark plug parts for your car from auto parts stores like AutoZone, NAPA Auto Parts, and Advance Auto Parts, as well as online retailers such as Amazon and RockAuto. However, like price, recommended brands may also vary depending on your vehicle’s specific year, make, and model.

Should I buy OEM or aftermarket parts?

For a spark plug replacement, choosing OEM parts offers quality assurance, precise fit, and possible warranty coverage, ensuring reliable performance. On the other hand, aftermarket spark plugs are more budget-friendly, offer a variety of brands and features, but may carry quality concerns and compatibility risks.

Weigh your priorities—opt for OEM if you seek guaranteed performance, or go with aftermarket for cost savings and tailored features, while keeping an eye on reputable brands.

Where can I buy parts for my spark plugs replacement?

Consider checking local auto parts stores like Advance Auto Parts, AutoZone, and NAPA Auto Parts, which often carry a wide selection of spark plugs and related components. Alternatively, you can purchase them online from reputable automotive websites, online retailers like Amazon or RockAuto or even directly from the manufacturer or dealership. Provide your car's make, model, and year to ensure you get the correct parts.

Find out what parts are recommended for my car

Where can I get my spark plugs replaced?

Find the perfect spark plug replacement shop with confidence using Jerry's GarageGuard™. Jerry's

GarageGuard™

offers a treasure trove of over 2,500 reputable repair shops scattered across the country.

Explore shops effortlessly, comparing fair price estimates with real hourly labor rates, potential diagnostic fees, and authentic reviews.

Here’s the turnoff—take the exit to trustworthy auto repair with Jerry's GarageGuard™. Start by comparing quotes in your zip code using the app.

154 Reviews

61 Auto Center

1226 Centre Ave, Reading, PA

Spark Plugs Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$59

(Parts - $4, Labor - $55)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$70

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (610) 370-7224

123 Reviews

Herbert Automotive

235 Castleberry Industrial Dr, Cumming, GA

Spark Plugs Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$72

(Parts - $4, Labor - $68)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

Compare this shop for free with Jerry

140 Reviews

C&J Automotive Of Newtown Square

99 S Newtown Street Rd, Newtown Square, PA

Spark Plugs Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$142

(Parts - $4, Labor - $138)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$109

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (610) 353-2290

198 Reviews

ServiceUp

20 N Santa Cruz Ave Suite A, Los Gatos, CA

Spark Plugs Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$212

(Parts - $4, Labor - $208)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$180

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (888) 788-1372

How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.

How will a mechanic replace my spark plugs?

The mechanic will usually complete the following steps to install new plugs:

Preparation: The mechanic will gather the necessary tools and equipment for the spark plug replacement. They will inspect the engine to locate the spark plugs and

read their condition

before getting started.

Disconnect Battery (if needed): In some cases, the mechanic may disconnect the battery to ensure safety during the replacement process.

Remove Spark Plug Wires (if applicable): If your car has spark plug wires, they will be carefully detached from the spark plugs.

Remove Old Spark Plugs: Using a spark plug socket and ratchet, the mechanic will remove the old spark plugs one by one.

Inspect New Spark Plugs: They'll check the new spark plugs to ensure they are the correct type and have the right gap.

Install New Spark Plugs: The mechanic will carefully insert the new spark plugs into their respective cylinders. Using the spark plug socket and ratchet, they will securely tighten the new spark plugs to the recommended torque.

Reconnect Spark Plug Wires (if applicable): If your car has spark plug wires, the mechanic will reattach them to the new spark plugs.

Reconnect Battery (if disconnected): If the battery was disconnected earlier, it will be reconnected at this stage.

Test Engine: The mechanic will start the engine and ensure it runs smoothly without any issues. They'll also conduct a final inspection to confirm all spark plugs are installed correctly and that everything is in order.

Remember, spark plug replacements vary between vehicles due to differences in engine types, spark plug designs, and access to the spark plugs. Some cars have easy-to-reach spark plugs, while others require more disassembly. The repair cost depends on how complicated the vehicle’s spark plugs are.

What happens if I don’t replace my spark plugs?

If you don't replace your spark plugs when needed, several issues can arise. Worn out spark plugs can lead to:

Reduced engine performance

Poor fuel efficiency and increased emissions

Difficulty starting the engine

Rough idling

Engine misfires

Damage to your catalytic converter

Regularly replacing your own spark plugs is crucial for maintaining optimal engine performance, fuel efficiency, and overall reliability of your vehicle. If your Check Engine light ever comes on, make sure to read the OBD

codes

and make a repair immediately.

What are spark plugs?

Spark plugs are essential components in your engine that play a crucial role in igniting the air-fuel mixture needed for combustion. Think of them as tiny, powerful devices that create a spark to ignite the fuel, powering your car's pistons and making the ignition system function.

A spark plug is located in the combustion chamber of the cylinder head. It consists of a center electrode and a ground electrode.

The center electrode is the small, metal protrusion at the center of the spark plug's tip, while the ground electrode is the metal piece surrounding the center electrode. When the spark plug creates a spark, it jumps between the center electrode and the ground electrode, igniting the air-fuel mixture in the engine's cylinders to initiate combustion.

Here's how they work: Inside the engine's cylinders, the air-fuel mixture is compressed. When it's time to ignite, the spark plug generates an electric spark, igniting the mixture, causing a controlled explosion. This explosion pushes the pistons down, powering your car and setting it in motion.

Spark plugs come in various types: copper, iridium, and platinum spark plugs. Each type has different durability and performance characteristics.

Copper spark plugs are less expensive but have a shorter lifespan, typically around 20,000 to 30,000 miles. On the other hand, platinum and iridium spark plugs are more durable and can last anywhere from 60,000 to 100,000 miles or even more, depending on the manufacturer and the specific driving conditions.

Over time, spark plugs can wear out or get covered in deposits, affecting engine performance. Regular maintenance, like replacing them according to your car's manufacturer recommendations, ensures efficient combustion, better fuel efficiency, and smooth engine operation.

When should I replace the spark plugs on my car?

You should replace the spark plugs on your car based on the manufacturer's recommended car maintenance schedule, which can be found in your car's owner's manual. In general, most modern vehicles require spark plug replacement every 30,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the type of spark plugs installed and your driving habits.

Here are some common symptoms of faulty spark plugs:

Poor engine performance

Rough idling

Engine misfires

Difficulty starting

Decreased fuel efficiency

Reduced power

Set a reminder for yourself based on the mileage interval in your owner’s manual.

How often should spark plugs be replaced?

Spark plugs typically have a lifespan of about 30,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the type and quality of the spark plug and your driving habits. With proper maintenance and regular inspections, you can often maximize their longevity and get close to that 100,000-mile mark.

Can I replace my spark plugs myself?

Replacing spark plugs requires basic mechanical knowledge and tools. Hiring a mechanic provides professional expertise, ensuring proper spark plug selection and saving you time—although it costs more than doing it yourself.

If you are confident with your DIY automotive skills, you can replace spark plugs yourself. Otherwise, a mechanic guarantees a hassle-free experience, especially if you're short on time or unfamiliar with car repairs.

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FAQs

What are the symptoms of bad spark plugs?

Symptoms of bad spark plugs include rough idling, difficulty starting, reduced engine performance, poor fuel efficiency, and engine misfires. If you need to fill up the gas tank more frequently than usual or if you feel sudden jerking or stumbling while driving, you might have bad spark plugs.

Are spark plugs easy to change?

Changing spark plugs is generally an easy task for many car owners. With basic mechanical knowledge and the right tools, you can replace them yourself. However, it's essential to follow the car's manual and guidelines for your specific model to ensure a successful and safe replacement.

If you're unsure or uncomfortable with DIY car repairs, it's best to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic.

How long does it take to change spark plugs?

It can take around 30 minutes to one hour for a straightforward spark plug replacement. However, for some vehicles with hard-to-reach spark plugs or additional complications, it may take longer.

Meet Our Experts

John Davis

Car Expert

Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience

John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.

Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.

Jessica Barrett

Car Expert

Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.

Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.

Kathleen Flear

Car Expert

Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.

*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.