Essential Guide to Spark Plugs for the 2011-2017 Dodge Durango
Keep your Durango's V6 or HEMI engine firing on all cylinders with the right set of plugs.
- The 3.6L V6 has 6 plugs and requires intake manifold removal for a full replacement, making it a more difficult job.
- The 5.7L HEMI V8 has 16 plugs (2 per cylinder), which increases the total parts cost significantly.
- NGK and Champion are often the OEM suppliers for Mopar, offering the same quality without the Mopar box price.
- Always replace spark plugs as a full set to ensure even engine performance and avoid repeating the job.
Symptoms of Failing Spark Plugs
When spark plugs wear out, they can cause noticeable problems. The most common sign is a rough idle or the engine shaking. 🎬 Watch: A visual guide to common bad spark plug symptoms You might also experience difficulty starting the vehicle, slower acceleration, and worse gas mileage. A lit or flashing Check Engine Light is also a major indicator, often pointing to engine misfire codes (P0300-P0308).
🎬 Watch: Diagnosing a cylinder misfire on a Dodge DurangoChoosing the Right Aftermarket Spark Plugs
When replacing spark plugs, you have many choices. It's important to understand the differences between your Durango's two engine options, as their needs are very different.
For the 3.6L Pentastar V6 Engine:
The V6 Durango uses 6 spark plugs. The original equipment (OEM) plugs are typically Iridium-tipped for long life, with a recommended replacement interval of around 100,000 miles. When choosing aftermarket plugs, sticking with a quality Iridium plug is your best bet for performance and longevity.
- OEM/Premium Tier (Recommended): Brands like NGK and Champion are often the original suppliers for Mopar. Choosing their Iridium plugs gives you OEM quality, often at a lower price than the Mopar-branded box. Denso is another top-tier choice known for excellent quality and durability.
- Mid-Tier: Brands like Bosch and Autolite offer reliable Iridium and Platinum plugs that are a good balance of price and performance.
- Budget-Tier: While less expensive, basic copper plugs from any brand will have a much shorter life and may not perform as well in the Pentastar engine. It is generally recommended to use the specified Iridium plugs.
For the 5.7L HEMI V8 Engine:
The HEMI engine is unique because it uses 16 spark plugs—two for each of its eight cylinders. This significantly increases the total cost of parts for a replacement job. The original plugs are a mix of standard nickel-copper and precious metals, with a shorter replacement interval, often recommended around 30,000 miles for the copper plugs. However, many owners upgrade to longer-lasting Iridium plugs.
- OEM/Premium Tier (Recommended): NGK is the OEM manufacturer for many Mopar plugs used in the HEMI. Using the recommended NGK Laser Iridium or Iridium IX plugs is a very common and reliable choice for HEMI owners. Champion is another long-time Mopar supplier with quality options.
- Mid-Tier: Autolite's Iridium XP plugs are a popular aftermarket option that provides good performance in the HEMI. Bosch also offers compatible plugs.
- Common Mistake: Do not use copper plugs if the vehicle specifies Iridium or Platinum, and vice-versa. Always match the plug material to what the manufacturer recommends for best performance and to avoid engine issues.
Estimated Parts Cost (Full Set)
| Engine | Aftermarket (Iridium) | OEM (Mopar Box) |
|---|---|---|
| 3.6L V6 (6 Plugs) | $50 - $110 | $90 - $150 |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 (16 Plugs) | $90 - $200 | $150 - $300+ |
Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
No major recalls were found specifically for spark plugs on the 2011-2017 Dodge Durango. However, Chrysler has issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for related models and engines. For example, TSB 09-013-20 REV. A was released for some 2020-2021 Durangos with the 3.6L engine due to spark plugs that could develop internal cracks and cause misfires. While this TSB is for a later model year, it highlights the importance of using quality, correctly installed plugs to avoid misfire issues (DTCs P0301-P0306).
Pro Tip: Gapping Your Plugs
Most modern Iridium and Platinum spark plugs come pre-gapped from the factory for your specific vehicle. While it's always a good practice to double-check the gap with a feeler gauge before installation, avoid using a cheap disc-style gapping tool, as it can damage the fine precious metal tip. The correct gap for the 5.7L HEMI is often cited as 0.043 or 0.044 inches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How often do I need to change the spark plugs on my Durango?
For the 3.6L V6 with factory Iridium plugs, the interval is typically 100,000 miles. For the 5.7L HEMI, it depends on the type of plug used. Standard copper plugs may need changing every 30,000 miles, while long-life Iridium plugs can last up to 100,000 miles. Always check your owner's manual for the specific interval for your vehicle.
Is it hard to change the spark plugs myself?
It depends on your engine. On the 5.7L HEMI, the job is relatively straightforward as all 16 plugs are accessible. On the 3.6L V6, the three plugs on the driver's side are easy, but reaching the three on the passenger side requires removing the upper intake manifold, making the job much more difficult for a beginner.
🎬 See this walkthrough for replacing plugs on the 3.6L engineShould I buy Mopar plugs or are aftermarket ones okay?
High-quality aftermarket plugs from brands like NGK, Champion, and Denso are excellent choices. NGK is often the manufacturer of the Mopar-branded plug, so you are getting the same part without the dealership markup. These brands offer OEM-level fit and performance.
My HEMI uses 16 plugs. Do I have to replace all of them at once?
Yes. Spark plugs should always be replaced as a complete set. Replacing only one or a few can lead to uneven performance, and you will have to repeat the labor again when the next old plug fails.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: SP149125AE SP149125AD LZFR5CI-11
The 3.6L V6 engine typically uses 6 Iridium spark plugs. The 5.7L HEMI V8 uses 16 spark plugs, which can be standard copper/nickel or upgraded Iridium types. Common gap sizes are between 0.040 and 0.044 inches.
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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.
- Dodge Durango:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Symptoms of Failing Spark Plugs
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Spark Plugs
- For the 3.6L Pentastar V6 Engine:
- For the 5.7L HEMI V8 Engine:
- Estimated Parts Cost (Full Set)
- Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
- Pro Tip: Gapping Your Plugs
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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