Spark plugs

Since 1959, DENSO has become one of the world’s leading pioneers of OEM quality spark plug technology

Spark plugs

How spark plugs work

Known as the ‘heart of the engine’, spark plugs play a key role in the ignition and performance of the entire engine. The well-timed combustion of the fuel-air mixture of gasoline and oxygen is what generates power in gasoline engines. The precise timing of the spark created by the spark plug ignites the fuel, triggering combustion.

To create this spark, a high voltage is passed between the centre electrode and ground electrode of the spark plug. This voltage breaks down the natural insulation between these electrodes and an electrical spark is generated. Although this strong spark only lasts for about 1/1,000 of a second, it has to be precisely and reliably timed to trigger the combustion of the fuel-air mixture.

Features and benefits

  • Optimum performance in a compact design.
  • Built by DENSO in-house, with ‘zero defects’ as standard.
  • Designs suitable for 90% of car models.
  • Developed in-house for a wide range of applications.
Expert technology development
Since our first design in 1959, we’ve been working to develop our spark plug technology and improve performance. This expertise informs the design of our huge range of compact spark plugs.
High, reliable performance
As engines downsize, spark plugs still need to provide similar or improved levels of spark performance. DENSO spark plugs provide the best optimum performance in a compact design.
Suitable for many applications
Our spark plugs are suitable for 90% of car models and are designed to provide reliable performance in a range of engine types and for various applications.

Types and characteristics

As well as designing to optimize performance, DENSO produces a range of spark plugs with different electrode shapes and sizes that are suitable for different engine applications.

Spark plugs types

Nickel TT®
Iridium TT®
Platinum Longlife
Iridium Longlife
Iridium Super Ignition Spark Plugs (SIP)
Iridium Power
Iridium Tough
Iridium Racing

Characteristics

Catalogues and marketing materials

To find out more about Spark plugs browse the Downloads Area section. Click here.

Installation and fault finding

In order to find the right plug for your vehicle, you need to consider the heat range, hex diameter, total length and horsepower of the engine, as well as inspecting the condition of the current plug, to choose a new one accordingly.

Installation

Great care must be taken to ensure the safe installation of a spark plug:
Table

Fault finding

A spark plug’s appearance and various engine symptoms can help to diagnose damage:
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