Ram ProMaster City Spark Plug Replacement Guide (2015-2022)
Keep your ProMaster City's 2.4L engine running smoothly with the right set of spark plugs.
- Stick with Iridium spark plugs from reputable brands like NGK, Denso, or Champion for the best performance and longevity.
- When replacing plugs, always inspect the spark plug tubes for oil, which indicates a common valve cover gasket leak that must be fixed.
- Always verify the spark plug gap is 0.047 inches before installation, even on pre-gapped plugs.
- A flashing check engine light means a severe misfire is occurring; pull over and shut off the engine as soon as it is safe to do so to prevent expensive damage.
Symptoms of Failing Spark Plugs
When your spark plugs are worn out, your ProMaster City will give you clear signs. Ignoring them can lead to poor performance and potentially expensive engine damage. Look out for these common symptoms:
- Rough Idle: The engine may shake or vibrate when you're stopped at a light.
- Engine Misfires: You might feel a stutter or hesitation from the engine during acceleration. This can trigger a check engine light.
- Poor Acceleration: The van may feel sluggish and slow to respond when you press the gas pedal.
- Reduced Fuel Economy: Worn plugs burn fuel less efficiently, meaning you'll be stopping for gas more often.
- Hard Starting: The engine may take longer than usual to turn over and start.
- Check Engine Light: A misfire will often trigger codes like P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, or P0304. A flashing check engine light signals a severe misfire that can quickly damage your catalytic converter. 🎬 Learn more about diagnosing and fixing cylinder misfire codes.
Known Issue: Oil in Spark Plug Tubes
A very common problem on the 2.4L Tigershark engine is a leaking valve cover gasket or spark plug tube seals. This allows engine oil to fill the spark plug wells, soaking the ignition coil boot and causing misfires. When you pull the ignition coils, inspect them and the wells for any signs of oil. If oil is present, you must replace the valve cover gasket set along with the spark plugs to fix the root cause. TSB #08-027-20 was issued to address replacing ignition coil boots 🎬 See how to replace a leaking valve cover gasket yourself. for related issues.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Spark Plug
The 2015-2022 ProMaster City came from the factory with long-life Iridium spark plugs, and it's best to stick with that technology. While cheaper copper or platinum plugs are available, they will not last as long and may not perform as well in the 2.4L MultiAir engine.
Brand Quality Tiers
Not all brands are created equal, but several reputable manufacturers make quality plugs for your van.
- Top Tier (OEM Quality or Better): Brands like NGK and Denso are OEM suppliers for many automakers and are highly regarded for their quality and performance. Their Iridium plugs (like the NGK Laser Iridium or Iridium IX series) are an excellent choice and often meet or exceed the original Mopar/Champion plug's performance.
- OEM & Solid Aftermarket: Champion is the original equipment manufacturer for many Mopar vehicles, including the ProMaster City. Their aftermarket Iridium plugs are a reliable, factory-equivalent choice.
- Standard Aftermarket: Brands like Autolite and Bosch offer Iridium plugs that are a cost-effective alternative. While generally reliable, most professional mechanics lean towards NGK, Denso, or the original Champion plugs for the best results.
Always Check the Gap
The correct spark plug gap for the 2.4L engine is 0.047 inches. While most Iridium plugs come pre-gapped, they can easily be knocked out of spec during shipping. Always verify the gap with a feeler gauge before installation. Do not use a coin-style gapper, as it can damage the fine Iridium tip.
Aftermarket Spark Plug Cost for 2015-2022 ProMaster City
| Part Grade | Price Range (Per Plug) |
|---|---|
| Top Tier Aftermarket (NGK, Denso Iridium) | $10 - $21 |
| OEM / Equivalent (Champion Iridium) | $9 - $18 |
| Standard Aftermarket (Autolite, Bosch Iridium) | $7 - $15 |
Prices are estimates and may vary based on the retailer and brand. You will need four spark plugs for a complete replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace the spark plugs?
The recommended replacement interval for the original Iridium spark plugs is around 100,000 miles. However, if you experience any performance issues or if your van is used for heavy-duty work, you may need to replace them sooner. Some owners who drive aggressively report better performance by changing them every 30,000 miles.
What happens if I don't change my spark plugs?
Old, worn-out spark plugs will cause persistent misfires, poor fuel economy, and rough running. A continuous misfire can allow unburnt fuel into the exhaust, which can overheat and destroy the expensive catalytic converter, turning a simple maintenance job into a major repair.
Can I use cheaper copper spark plugs?
While copper plugs might be available for your engine, it is not recommended. The ignition system in the ProMaster City is designed for Iridium plugs. Using copper plugs will result in a much shorter service life (typically 20,000-30,000 miles) and may cause performance issues.
Is replacing the spark plugs a DIY job?
Yes, for most people with basic tools, this is a straightforward DIY job. The spark plugs are easily accessible after removing the plastic engine cover and an air intake tube. The entire process should take about an hour.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide to changing your ProMaster City plugs.Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: SP148183AB
Material: Iridium Hex Size: 5/8 inch (16mm) Gap: 0.047 inch (1.2mm)
We Have This Part in Stock
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 ProMaster City: