A Ram 1500 Owner's Guide to Spark Plugs (2011-2020)
Keep your 3.6L V6 or 5.7L Hemi running strong with the right set of spark plugs for your truck.
- The 5.7L Hemi engine requires 16 spark plugs, while the 3.6L V6 requires 6.
- The factory replacement interval for most modern Ram 1500s with iridium plugs is 100,000 miles.
- NGK and Champion are common OEM suppliers; aftermarket options from NGK, Denso, and Bosch are highly regarded.
- Be cautious of counterfeit spark plugs on online marketplaces; buy from trusted retailers.
Is Your Ram 1500 Ready for New Spark Plugs?
If your truck feels sluggish, gets worse gas mileage than it used to, or idles roughly, your spark plugs could be the culprit. These small parts play a huge role in your engine's health. Over time, the metal tips (electrodes) wear down from creating thousands of sparks per minute, and they can get covered in carbon deposits. This wear and tear makes it harder for them to create a strong spark, leading to engine performance issues. 🎬 Watch: A quick guide to common symptoms of bad spark plugs. For Ram 1500s, especially those with the 5.7L Hemi, sticking to the recommended replacement schedule is key to avoiding problems.
The Hemi Has How Many Spark Plugs?
Yes, it's true. If you have a 2011-2020 Ram 1500 with the 5.7L Hemi V8, your engine uses 16 spark plugs—two for every cylinder. The 3.6L Pentastar V6 uses a more conventional setup with 6 plugs. Be prepared for the extra cost and time if you're tackling a spark plug change on a Hemi.
🎬 See this walkthrough for an easy Hemi spark plug replacement.Choosing the Right Aftermarket Spark Plugs
The Mopar spark plugs from the dealer are typically high-quality parts, often made by brands like NGK or Champion. However, the aftermarket offers excellent alternatives that can meet or exceed OEM quality, often at a better price. Here’s how the common brands stack up for your Ram 1500:
Tier 1: Premium Performance & Longevity
These brands are known for using advanced materials like iridium and ruthenium, which last longer and provide a more consistent spark than standard plugs. They are an excellent choice if you want the best performance and longest life.
- NGK: Often the original equipment manufacturer (OEM), NGK is a top choice for many Ram owners. Their Laser Iridium and Ruthenium HX plugs are highly recommended for both the 5.7L Hemi and 3.6L V6 for their durability and performance.
- Denso: A direct competitor to NGK, Denso's Iridium plugs are another premium option that provides excellent longevity and reliable ignition.
Tier 2: Reliable OEM-Equivalent Quality
These brands offer a great balance of quality, performance, and price. They are a solid choice for a standard replacement that you can trust.
- Champion: Another common OEM supplier for Mopar, Champion plugs are a dependable, factory-style choice. They offer everything from standard copper plugs (for older models) to modern iridium options.
- Bosch: A well-respected German brand, Bosch offers a range of plugs, including long-life iridium and platinum models that are a good fit for Ram engines.
- Autolite: Autolite provides reliable plugs, including double platinum and iridium options that are a cost-effective alternative to premium brands.
Tier 3: Budget-Friendly Options
These brands are more focused on value. While they meet basic requirements, they may not offer the same longevity or material quality as higher-tier brands.
- Crown Automotive / Omix-Ada: These brands specialize in replacement parts for Chrysler vehicles and can be a budget-friendly choice.
- Skyward: This is a more generic, economy-focused brand.
A Warning About Fakes
Be cautious when buying spark plugs from non-reputable sources, especially online marketplaces like Amazon or eBay. There is a known issue with counterfeit (fake) NGK and other premium spark plugs being sold. These fakes are poorly made and can cause engine damage. Always buy from a trusted auto parts retailer.
Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
No specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) target spark plugs directly for the 2011-2020 Ram 1500. However, misfire issues are a common reason for spark plug replacement. There was a customer satisfaction campaign for some 6.2L engines (not standard in the 1500) for an incorrect spark plug gap, but this is not a formal recall for the 3.6L or 5.7L engines. Other recalls for this generation typically involve issues like ABS software or powertrain control module software, not the spark plugs themselves.
Cost of Aftermarket Spark Plugs (2011-2020 Ram 1500)
| Plug Type | Average Price (Per Plug) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Copper | $4 - $8 | Older models or short change intervals (every 30k miles). |
| Platinum / Double Platinum | $8 - $18 | A good balance of longevity and price. |
| Iridium / Ruthenium | $15 - $44 | Longest life (up to 100,000 miles) and best performance. |
Note: Prices are estimates and can vary by brand and retailer. Remember the 5.7L Hemi requires 16 plugs, while the 3.6L V6 requires 6.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How often should I change the spark plugs on my Ram 1500?
For most 2011-2020 Ram 1500s with the 3.6L V6 or 5.7L Hemi using factory-recommended iridium plugs, the replacement interval is every 100,000 miles. However, some earlier 5.7L Hemi models (before 2014) that used copper plugs had a much shorter interval of around 30,000 miles. Always check your owner's manual for the specific interval for your truck's engine and year.
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. While it's a good practice to verify the gap with a feeler gauge, you should NOT attempt to adjust the gap on fine-wire iridium or platinum plugs, as you can easily break the delicate electrode. If the gap is incorrect, you should return the plug for a new one.
Is it hard to change the spark plugs on a Ram 1500?
The difficulty varies by engine. On the 3.6L V6, the passenger side is easy, but the driver's side requires removing the upper intake manifold to access the plugs, making it more difficult. 🎬 Watch: How to replace spark plugs on the 3.6L engine. On the 5.7L Hemi, all plugs are accessible without removing major components, but the rear plugs, especially on the driver's side near the brake booster, are in very tight spaces and can be challenging to reach.
Can I use iridium plugs in an older Hemi that came with copper plugs?
This is a common topic in owner forums. Many owners have successfully upgraded from copper to long-life iridium plugs on pre-2014 Hemi engines without issue. However, some report that the engine runs best on the original copper type. If you upgrade, ensure you are using high-quality plugs from a brand like NGK or Denso.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: SP143877AB SP149125AD LZFR5C11 LFR5AIX11
Engine Type: 3.6L Pentastar V6 (6 plugs), 5.7L Hemi V8 (16 plugs). Plug Material: Copper, Platinum, Iridium, Ruthenium. Common Gap Size: 0.043 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.
- Ram 1500:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Ram 1500 Ready for New Spark Plugs?
- The Hemi Has How Many Spark Plugs?
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Spark Plugs
- Tier 1: Premium Performance & Longevity
- Tier 2: Reliable OEM-Equivalent Quality
- Tier 3: Budget-Friendly Options
- A Warning About Fakes
- Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
- Cost of Aftermarket Spark Plugs (2011-2020 Ram 1500)
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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