Choosing the Right Spark Plugs for Your 2006-2012 Mitsubishi Galant
Keep your Galant's engine running smoothly by understanding its specific spark plug needs.
- Stick with OEM brands like NGK or Denso for best results; their Iridium plugs offer the longest life and performance.
- For V6 models, always use high-quality Iridium plugs for the hard-to-reach rear bank to avoid costly repeat labor.
- If you find oil in the spark plug wells, replace the valve cover and spark plug tube seals at the same time.
- Most quality aftermarket plugs are pre-gapped; avoid adjusting fine-wire Iridium tips to prevent damage.
Signs of Failing Spark Plugs
When your spark plugs are wearing out, your Galant will let you know. Ignoring these signs can lead to poor performance and potentially damage other engine parts.
- Rough Idling: The engine may feel shaky or sound uneven when you're stopped.
- Trouble Starting: A weak spark makes it harder for the engine to turn over, especially in cold weather.
- Poor Fuel Economy: Inefficient combustion from worn plugs means your car uses more gas than usual.
- Engine Misfires: You might feel a hesitation or stumble during acceleration. The check engine light may also flash, often with codes like P0300-P0306.
- Reduced Acceleration: Your car may feel sluggish and less responsive than normal.
Oil in the Spark Plug Wells?
If you find oil on your old spark plugs or in the tubes they sit in, it's a common sign of a leaking valve cover gasket or spark plug tube seals. This is a frequent issue, especially on higher-mileage Galants. It's best to replace these seals when you change the plugs to prevent the new plugs from being damaged by oil.
🎬 Watch a professional replace a leaking valve cover gasket.Choosing the Right Aftermarket Spark Plugs
Mitsubishi originally equipped the Galant with high-quality Iridium spark plugs from NGK or Denso. When choosing replacements, you have several options. Aftermarket plugs from these original equipment (OE) brands are an excellent choice, offering the same performance and longevity as the dealer part without the higher price.
Brand Tiers for Your Galant
- Top Tier (OEM Quality): NGK and Denso are the original manufacturers for Mitsubishi. Their Iridium plugs (like NGK Laser Iridium or Iridium IX, and Denso Iridium Long Life) are highly recommended for both the 4-cylinder and V6 engines. They provide long life, stable performance, and are designed specifically for your engine.
- Mid-Tier (Reliable Alternatives): Brands like Bosch and Champion offer quality Iridium and Platinum plugs that are a good fit for the Galant. They provide reliable performance and are a solid choice if you're looking for a balance between cost and quality.
- Economy Tier (Budget-Friendly): Autolite offers copper and platinum plugs that are more affordable. While functional, they won't last as long as Iridium plugs and may need to be changed more frequently, as often as every 30,000 miles. Skyward is a private label brand; its quality can be inconsistent compared to established manufacturers.
A Note on the V6 Engine
The 3.8L V6 engine has three spark plugs on the rear cylinder bank that are located under the upper intake manifold. Replacing them is a much more involved job than the front three or the plugs on the 4-cylinder engine. 🎬 Watch this step-by-step spark plug replacement for 2.4L engines. Because of the high labor involved, it is strongly recommended to use high-quality, long-life Iridium spark plugs (NGK or Denso) to avoid having to do the job again for another 100,000 miles.
🎬 See how to access and replace V6 rear spark plugs.Cost of New Aftermarket Spark Plugs
| Plug Type | Price Range (Per Plug) | Typical Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Iridium (NGK, Denso, Bosch) | $9 - $22 | 60,000 - 105,000 miles |
| Platinum (Champion, Bosch) | $6 - $15 | up to 60,000 miles |
| Copper (Autolite) | $3 - $8 | up to 30,000 miles |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to gap my new spark plugs?
Most modern Iridium and Platinum spark plugs come pre-gapped from the factory for your specific vehicle. It's always a good idea to verify the gap with a feeler gauge, but you should not attempt to adjust the gap on a fine-wire Iridium plug, as you can easily break the delicate tip. The recommended gap for most Galant models is around 0.032" to 0.044", depending on the specific plug and engine.
What's the difference between Iridium and Platinum plugs?
Iridium is a harder, more durable material than platinum. This allows Iridium plugs to have a very fine center electrode, which creates a more focused and powerful spark. They last longer and provide more consistent performance over their lifespan compared to platinum plugs. Since your Galant came with Iridium plugs from the factory, it's best to stick with them.
Why is the V6 spark plug job so much harder?
On the 3.8L V6 engine, the upper intake manifold sits directly on top of the rear valve cover, blocking access to the three rear spark plugs and coils. To change these plugs, the entire manifold must be unbolted and removed, which adds significant time and complexity to the job. The front three plugs are easily accessible, just like on the 4-cylinder engine.
Are there any recalls for spark plugs on my Galant?
No, there have been no specific recalls issued by the NHTSA for spark plugs on the 2006-2012 Mitsubishi Galant. Any issues with spark plugs are considered general maintenance items.
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Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 1822A002 MN158596
The 2.4L 4-cylinder and 3.8L V6 engines were factory-equipped with Iridium-type spark plugs. The most common replacement is an NGK Laser Iridium plug. The 2.4L engine uses 4 plugs, while the 3.8L V6 uses 6 plugs.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Mitsubishi Galant: