Best spark plugs for chevy cruze 1.4 turbo: A Complete Guide!

The spark plug is one of the essential parts of an ignition system. It is responsible for the electric current that starts the combustion. Like all other things, spark plugs won’t last for eternity. This basic mechanism is also installed on your Chevrolet Cruze.

When changing this plug, you should choose carefully. Because they have a big effect on the overall performance of the engine. Getting the right match will ensure robust performance. While choosing the wrong one might not only reduce performance but also introduce other problems.

You may find a large pool of plugs with various features. Things might get difficult to differentiate the best ones. Don’t worry; I’ve got your back. In this article here, I’m going to review 5 best spark plugs for chevy Cruze 1.4 turbo which you might find worthy.

Here’re my top recommended products at a glance:

1. Top pick: Bosch 9603 Double Iridium OE Replacement Spark Plug

4x longer service life compared to other alternatives, 0.6mm firing pin, provides decent mileage, durable and corrosion-resistant.

2. Runner up: ACDelco 41-121 Professional Iridium Spark Plug

Prevents combustion leakage, provides smooth performance and stability, reliable cold start and quick acceleration comes with a suppressor seal and helps to lock out radio frequencies that can affect vehicle electronics.

3. Best Budget: Autolite AP3923 Platinum Spark Plug

Need less voltage, Cost-efficient and have all the basic benefits like great design, durable core, protective shell, etc.

4. Best copper spark plug: Autolite Spark Plug Resistor

Delivers good fuel economy and smooth acceleration, 100% leak-proof, multi-rib insulator, durable and less risk of misfire

5. Smallest electrode: Denso (5310) IK22 Iridium Power Spark Plug

Will get the best ignition performance, can create a spark with minimum voltage, ensures exceptional structural strength and a quality bond

How Spark Plugs Work On Chevrolet Engine?

Combustion model engines are a few of the most sophisticated devices of the modern era. They have seen many changes over the century. Specially Chevrolet engines are notable for their feat of engineering. However, the use of spark plugs has seen a little change over time. It has stuck to the basics with some little tweaks.

The use of spark plugs in Chevrolet’s small-block engine and larger engines have remained consistent over the years. The main role of these plugs is to create the spark. The ignition produces a high voltage that is applied to the electrodes of the spark plug. As a result, a spark emerges, and that incident creates combustion in the engine chamber. For these reasons, you will need the best spark plugs for chevy cruze 1.4 turbo.

Best Spark Plugs for Chevy Cruze 1.4 Turbo

1. Bosch 9603 Double Iridium OE Replacement Spark Plug – Top Pick

I chose this spark plug as the top pick because it has a great life expectancy. This double idiom spark plug can provide up to 4x longer service life compared to other alternatives like copper. In the long run, it will save you from spending extra cash on replacements.

This Bosch spark plug offers great service life due to its ground electrode inlay design and double idiom firing pin. The electrode tip material is made of platinum. As it will last a long time, you will be saving costs on replacement plugs.

The 0.6mm firing pin provides outstanding ignitability and performance. It will save mileage, and you will enjoy great ignition each time you start your car. It is pre-gapped that delivers the optimum fit, form, and function.

To improve durability, the firing pin goes through 360-degree laser welding. Through the welding corrosion-resistant firing pin made of Iridium is fused to the base. As a result, it provides the best durability.

? Pros:

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Summary: There are no perfect spark plugs that tick all the checkboxes. Although this iridium plug is a little expensive, it justifies the price tag with its performance. Its ultra-fine wire design will help you to unlock the full potential of the engine. It is definitely a decent spark plug for chevy cruze.

 

2. ACDelco 41-121 Professional Iridium Spark Plug – Runner Up

With this iridium spark plug, you will enjoy a stable engine idle state. It also prevents combustion leakage. So, your worry level should be the bare minimum when using this spark plug. Because it utilizes all the latest techs.

The ACDelco 41-121 provides smooth performance and stability. The use of Iridium allows manufacturers to design small and efficient electrodes. This flag, with its efficient design, offers a reliable cold start and quick acceleration.  Alongside performance, its fine wire electrode plays a role in burning away carbon deposits as they form.

It also comes with a suppressor seal. This sale helps to lock out radio frequencies that can affect vehicle electronics. Suppressor sale not only blocks radio frequencies but also prevents combustion leakage. So, in the end, you can enjoy a worry-free ride.

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Summary: This spark plug could be an ideal solution if you want worriless driving hours. Even though this plug won’t improve mileage, it will continue what the original plug offer to your Cruze. Other than that, You will enjoy great benefits from this one.

 

3. Autolite AP3923 Platinum Spark Plug – Best Budget-Friendly

This is a cheap alternative to expensive plugs that will provide you with optimal performance. That is why I put this product on the list. You will enjoy all the basic benefits like great design, durable core, protective shell, etc. Considering the features, the price makes it a real treat.

This Autolite plug utilizes a platinum core. To achieve long life, the platinum tip and sure there is little to no gap erosion. To maintain the precise gap and increase service life, yttrium enhanced nickel alloy is used. Overall, the manufacturer tried to give it the best service life at a minimal cost.

The centre electrode takes advantage of the necked-down design. As a result, it will need less voltage, and this will be easier. Alongside is there start, you will also enjoy improving fuel economy and quick accelerations.

Besides, its shell is nickel-plated steel. This ensures a long service life with corrosion resistance.

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Summary: With this spark plug, you will enjoy optimized features with minimal disturbance. It beats most NGK spark plugs for price.  The downside is you will have to work with the gap yourself or with an expert. Besides that, it is a great option if you are on a budget.

4. Autolite Spark Plug Resistor – Best Copper Spark Plug

It’s got a place on the list because it delivers good fuel economy and smooth acceleration. Besides, you will get a great voltage conduction. As copper is a great conductor of electricity, it generates spark with optimal efficiency.

This is a very well made spark plug that ensures all-around performance. To ensure the full required voltage at the gap, it has a copper glass seal bonds insulator.

The insulator is designed and well placed. As a result, it is very unlikely that this plant will fail to produce the required combustion voltage. On top of that, it is 100% leak proof. This feature will provide you with extra peace of mind.

Its multi-rib insulator plays a significant role in reducing the danger of flashover. Also, there is less of a risk of misfire. The terminal is made as a single piece. So, it will remain durable even over a long time of usage.

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Summary: If you are not looking for anything extraordinary and want to get your money’s worth, the Autolite Spark Plug Resistor can be the best buy for you. Not only it needs less power buy, but also it helps the fuel economy. It is a good choice as Chevrolet Cruze spark plug.

5. Denso (5310) IK22 Iridium Power Spark Plug – Best for Ignitability:

I’ve picked this spark plug because it uses Denso’s patented U groove center electrode. The biggest benefit of this plug is that you will get the best ignition performance. It achieves such performance with minimum voltage with patented iridium alloy tip.

In this spark plug, DENSO used the world’s smallest iridium electrode. They focused mostly on the ignitability. They do so by letting the flame kernel grow without any obstruction.

Moreover, the patented U-groove ground electrode allows it to create a spark with minimum voltage. Add all these together, and you will get a smooth ignition every time.

The iridium centre electrode is welded following the 360-degree laser welding process. It ensures exceptional structural strength and a quality bond. Which means you will not be facing any hardware issues anytime soon.

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Summary: If you are looking for plugs that prioritize ignition, then you have found your match. Although it is a little bit expensive, it is well worth the money.

 

What to Consider Before Buying the spark plugs for chevy Cruze 1.4 turbo

These are the key features to check when looking for the best spark plugs for chevy cruze 1.4 turbo.

Vehicle Model:

The vehicle model is the most important aspect when it comes to sparking plugs. Even when handling the Chevy Cruze from different years, you will see different parts have been changed. Such as the best spark plugs for 2012 chevy cruze might not be a good fit for other models.

This phenomenon can be compared to smartphones. Just like they get a model upgrade each year, cars go through the same process too. The reason is to reach the maximum level of customer satisfaction. So, with years passed, the same car gets major and minor tweaks over time.

As a part of the machinery, spark plugs are no different. They also go through changes for optimum performance. There could be differences like different materials, different gaps even different designs. So just going to the store and buying a car might get you in trouble. You will need to check thoroughly if the plug is an exact fit. If there is a slight mismatch, you will experience a severe lack of efficiency. In the worst case, you might end up using those on water pumps.

Types:

All spark plugs are not the same. They are different in terms of design, material, and engine type. The biggest difference is the main material these plugs are made of.  The material affects longevity, performance, and cost. The most used materials are Iridium, platinum, and copper. Let’s take a brief look at what they do.

Iridium is the hardest and most durable among the materials used for making spark plugs. They tend to last the longest of all. The best thing about these plugs is they need small voltage to create spark their longevity. But a little downside is that they are expensive than others. Most cars nowadays come with iridium spark plugs.

Then comes the platinum plugs. The center electrode of this one is made of platinum, hence the name. These plugs last longer, except the Iridium. Platinum plugs generate the most heat. As a result, they cause the least carbon emission among their peers. It is recommended if your chevy has a coil-on-plug ignition system.

Copper spark plugs are among the cheapest ones. Its copper core is coated with nickel alloy. Due to its large diameter than spark plugs, it needs the most voltage. Although they are cheap, they have a relatively shorter lifespan.

Heat Range:

Heat generated due to combustion disperse through the chamber in the spark plugs. The highest and lowest peak of heat spark plug faces is considered the heat range. Engines design is significantly responsible for the heat range these plugs have to work with.

However, heat level plays a crucial part in speed and fuel consumption. Spark plugs heavily influence the heat state. For example, if the heat disperse rate is low, then it will affect the combustion. When carbon does not burn thoroughly due to poor combustion, it will hurt the engine. A higher disperse rate will increase fuel consumption.

If the heat level does not fit, you might get less mileage and poor performance. So, it is better to check the engine model your Chevrolet uses before jumping to a conclusion.

Size:

Checking up the plug’s size is the most important thing to do before buying one. It is always cost-effective to buy them in a bunch. If the size does not match, the whole pack goes to waste. It is one of the silly mistakes that new owners make. For example, 2017 chevy cruze spark plugs might differ from the 2016 chevy cruze spark plugs.

Chevy Cruze with 1.4l engine uses a 5/8″ spark plugs. If you happen to own other models, the plug size may vary. For this reason, check the manual or ask an expert if you don’t already know the right size.

When Do Your Chevy Cruze Needs A New Spark Plug?

In case you are not a seasoned owner yet, symptoms of poor spark plug might miss your eyes. Even the best spark plugs for chevy cruze 1.4 turbo wears out. Let’s take a look at things when you should re-check your spark plugs.

• If the check engine light is on, that will be a good indication for checking the plugs. Although it might not be the reason, there is a good chance it could be.
• The car will be hard to start. These devices play the main role in starting the car when the ignition kicks in. The engine won’t start if there is not enough spark. So it is not always the battery or the weather to be blamed.
• Reduced mileage should prompt you to check the plugs. Because spark quality is a great deal when working with combustion. Poor spark causes poor fuel to burn. As a result, a portion of fuel will be wasted. If you notice, you are not getting mileage as before. Then, it will be a good time to check if they need replacing.
• Another cue would be when you Cruze struggles to accelerate. A worn-out plug won’t generate the necessary spark to ignite the fuel in the chamber. That means the engine will struggle when it needs extra power to accelerate.
• Finally, if you find the engine is misfiring, the spark plugs are the possible culprits. It is also an indication that your car’s maintenance is overdue. Replacing the spark plugs would somewhat remedy the situation.

How to Change The Spark Plug In A Chevy Cruze?

• Changing spark plugs in Chevy Cruze is fair and simple. There are no tricky parts. However, it might need some practicing and confidence. With the right tools, you could change them at home. Let’s take a look at how to change spark plugs in chevy Cruze.
• Once you have opened the bonnet, you will find the front cover. Lift that up with a little force, and it will pop right off.
• Then there will be an electrical connector on the right side. You will need to detach the connector. Once detached, it will allow getting to the clip. To remove the coil plate, you have to unclip that clip.
• Now you will have to unscrew the coil pack. Then pick it up. But make sure you lift the plate evenly on both sides. Otherwise, it might break.
• By now, you should be able to see the spark plugs. Get your spark plug remover and fit it with a ratchet. You will be able to unscrew them easily.
• Finally, screw the new ones in their place. And a reverse of the procedures mentioned above to put everything in place.

How Often To Change The Spark Plug On A Chevy Cruze

Chevy cruises are known for their reliability. Even though early models might differ on average, you need to change spark plugs every 100,000 miles. But it is considering the ideal conditions. In real life, your car would have to endure harsh conditions, roads, and environments.

That is why it is better to change spark plugs every 50,000 miles to get the best possible performance. The number might differ depending on various factors even for the best spark plugs for chevy cruze 1.4 turbo. On the other note, chevy cruze spark plugs calibration should be handled by experts.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best spark plug for horsepower?

Ans: Platinum as the main component is preferable for better horsepower.

What’s the best spark plug for performance?

Ans: Iridium plugs are best for performance.

What is the best spark plug for small engines?

Ans: Iridium plugs are better.

Do expensive spark plugs make a difference?

Ans: Yes, they make a difference in the long run.

Does Iridium spark plugs increase horsepower?

Ans: Yes.

How much HP do spark plugs add?

Ans: In the best-case scenario, you might gain 5-10 horsepower.

Are Iridium plugs worth the money?

Ans: Yes, they are.

How long does the NGK Iridium plug last?

Ans: They have a life expectancy of 40k-80k miles.

Can spark plugs last 200 000 miles?

Ans: No, it is highly improbable.

What is the average life of spark plugs?

Ans: Around two years.

Bottom line

A great driving experience depends on spark plugs in many ways. So, it’s normal to be picky when the default one runs out. Many sparks plug in the market, but they will not perform on your Chevy Cruze in an equal manner. That’s why I hope my review of the best spark plugs for chevy Cruze 1.4 turbo would help you choose the right one.