Choosing the Right Spark Plugs for Your 2012-2018 Toyota Highlander
Keep your Highlander's engine running smoothly and efficiently with the correct new spark plugs.
- Only use Iridium-type spark plugs; Denso and NGK are the OEM-equivalent brands and are highly recommended.
- The 3.5L V6 engine requires removing the intake manifold to change the rear three plugs, making it a difficult and expensive job.
- Symptoms of failure include a rough idle, poor acceleration, and a check engine light with misfire codes (P0300-P0306).
- For high-mileage vehicles, consider replacing the ignition coils at the same time to save on future labor costs.
Symptoms of Failing Spark Plugs
When your Highlander's spark plugs are wearing out, your vehicle will often give you several warning signs. Ignoring them can lead to reduced fuel economy, a rough-running engine, and potentially more expensive repairs down the road. Look out for these common symptoms:
- Check Engine Light: A failing spark plug can cause an engine misfire, which will almost always trigger the check engine light. The most common codes are P0300 (random misfire) or P0301-P0306 (misfire in a specific cylinder).
- Rough Idle: If your Highlander shakes or vibrates more than usual when stopped at a light, worn plugs could be the cause.
- Poor Acceleration: You might notice your vehicle feels sluggish or hesitant when you press the gas pedal.
- Reduced Fuel Economy: Inefficient combustion from bad plugs means your engine uses more fuel to do the same amount of work.
- Difficulty Starting: Weak sparks can make it harder for the engine to turn over, especially in cold weather.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Spark Plugs
When shopping for new spark plugs, you have many options. For the 2012-2018 Toyota Highlander, it is critical to use Iridium type spark plugs to match the original equipment design for longevity and performance.
Brand Tiers for Your Highlander
OEM-Equivalent Brands: Denso & NGK
Toyota installs Denso or NGK spark plugs at the factory. This makes them the safest and most recommended choice for your Highlander. When you buy a Denso or NGK Iridium plug from an auto parts store, you are often getting the exact same part the dealership sells, just in a different box. They provide guaranteed compatibility and performance.
Reputable Aftermarket Brands: Bosch & Champion
Bosch and Champion are well-known brands that also produce high-quality Iridium spark plugs. They can be a good alternative to Denso and NGK, but you must ensure the specific part number is listed as compatible with your Highlander's engine. These brands offer reliable performance and are a solid choice for your vehicle.
Economy Brands: Autolite & Skyward
Brands like Autolite and other budget-friendly options like Skyward offer a lower-cost alternative. While they may meet the basic requirements, they might not offer the same lifespan or consistent performance as the OEM-equivalent brands. If you are on a tight budget they can work, but for a job as labor-intensive as the V6 spark plug replacement, using a top-tier plug is highly recommended to avoid doing the job again sooner than necessary.
A Note on Counterfeit Parts
There are reports of counterfeit Denso and NGK spark plugs being sold online, especially on large marketplace sites. 🎬 See how to spot the difference between genuine and fake Denso plugs These fake plugs can cause poor performance and even engine damage. To be safe, purchase your spark plugs from a reputable auto parts retailer.
Installation: A Tale of Two Engines
Replacing the spark plugs on a 2012-2018 Highlander is a completely different job depending on which engine you have.
- 2.7L 4-Cylinder (1AR-FE): This is a straightforward job that a DIYer with basic tools can complete. The spark plugs and ignition coils are easily accessible on top of the engine.
- 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE): This is a much more difficult and time-consuming job. While the front three spark plugs are easy to access, the rear three are located under the intake manifold. The manifold must be removed to reach them. 🎬 Watch this walkthrough for changing spark plugs on the V6 engine This job is best left to experienced mechanics or very confident DIYers, as it requires more tools, time, and carries a risk of dropping items into the engine if not done carefully. You will also need to replace the intake manifold gaskets.
Pro Tip: Replace Ignition Coils at the Same Time?
If your Highlander has over 100,000 miles, especially the V6 model, it's a good idea to consider replacing the ignition coils at the same time as the spark plugs. The coils sit on top of the plugs and have a similar lifespan. Replacing them during the spark plug job saves you from having to pay for the same difficult labor twice if a coil fails later.
Cost of Replacing Spark Plugs
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Aftermarket Spark Plugs (Iridium) | $10 - $33 per plug |
| OEM Spark Plugs (from dealer) | $15 - $30 per plug |
| Shop Labor (4-Cylinder) | $100 - $200 |
| Shop Labor (V6) | $460 - $675+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do I need to replace the spark plugs on my Highlander?
For the 3.5L V6 engine, some maintenance schedules recommend replacement as early as 60,000 miles. However, a more common interval for both the V6 and 4-cylinder engines using long-life iridium plugs is 120,000 miles. Check your owner's manual for the specific interval for your vehicle, but if you are experiencing symptoms, they may need to be replaced sooner.
Why is the V6 spark plug replacement so expensive?
The high cost is almost entirely due to labor. To access the three rear spark plugs on the 3.5L V6 engine, a mechanic must remove the entire upper intake manifold, which is a time-consuming process. The parts themselves are not overly expensive, but the job can take several hours.
Can I use cheaper platinum or copper spark plugs?
No. Your Highlander's ignition system was designed for iridium spark plugs. Using a different type, like platinum or copper, will result in poor performance, reduced fuel economy, and a much shorter lifespan. You must use iridium plugs.
Do I need to gap the new spark plugs?
Most modern iridium spark plugs from reputable brands like Denso and NGK come pre-gapped from the factory. It is generally not recommended to try and gap them yourself, as the fine iridium tip is fragile and can be easily damaged. Always verify on the packaging that the plug is the correct, pre-gapped part for your vehicle.
Were there any recalls for Highlander spark plugs?
No, there have been no specific recalls or widespread Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by Toyota or the NHTSA for spark plug-related issues on the 2012-2018 Toyota Highlander.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 90919-01247 90919-01233 90919-A1003
Material: Iridium. Engine Compatibility: 2.7L 1AR-FE, 3.5L 2GR-FE. Quantity: 4 (for 2.7L), 6 (for 3.5L).
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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.
- Toyota Highlander:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Symptoms of Failing Spark Plugs
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Spark Plugs
- Brand Tiers for Your Highlander
- A Note on Counterfeit Parts
- Installation: A Tale of Two Engines
- Pro Tip: Replace Ignition Coils at the Same Time?
- Cost of Replacing Spark Plugs
- Frequently Asked Questions
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