A Ram Owner's Guide to Spark Plugs for the 2021-2025 Ram 1500
Keep your Ram's engine running strong by understanding its specific spark plug needs, from the 16-plug Hemi to the new Hurricane.
- The 5.7L Hemi V8 requires 16 spark plugs, which significantly increases the total cost of replacement compared to the 6 plugs needed for the V6 and I6 engines.
- Factory plugs are typically high-quality NGK Iridium; buying the NGK-branded version instead of the Mopar-boxed part can save money for the same quality.
- Replacement on the Hemi and V6 engines can be difficult for a DIYer due to tight access near the back of the engine bay and under the intake manifold.
- Always use long-life Iridium plugs to match OEM specifications and avoid having to repeat this labor-intensive job prematurely.
Engine Differences: Not All Ram 1500s Are the Same
Before you buy, know your engine. The spark plug requirements for the 2021-2025 Ram 1500 vary significantly based on what's under the hood.
- 5.7L Hemi V8: This is the big one. The Hemi uses a dual-plug design, meaning it has two spark plugs per cylinder for a total of 16 plugs. This improves combustion but also doubles the number of plugs you need to buy and replace.
- 3.6L Pentastar V6: This engine uses a more traditional setup with one plug per cylinder, for a total of six plugs.
- 3.0L Hurricane I6 (2025 models): The new twin-turbo straight-six also uses one plug per cylinder, for a total of six.
Known Issues & TSBs
3.6L Pentastar V6: A Technical Service Bulletin (TSB #09-013-20 REV. A) was issued for some 2021 models due to spark plugs that could crack internally, leading to a check engine light and misfires. The fix is to replace all six plugs.
3.0L Hurricane I6: Early 2025 models have TSBs related to engine misfires and hesitation (P0300-P0306 codes), which are addressed with a software update to the ignition control module. While not a direct plug failure, the symptoms are identical to bad plugs.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Spark Plug
Mopar doesn't manufacture its own spark plugs; they are typically made by a major brand like NGK or Champion and put in a Mopar box. You can often get the exact same quality part for less money by buying it directly from the original manufacturer.
- Tier 1 (OEM Equivalent): NGK, Denso. The factory-installed plugs in modern Ram 1500s are typically long-life Iridium plugs from NGK. Choosing an NGK Laser Iridium or a Denso Iridium plug is the safest bet for matching original performance and durability. These are recommended for all engines, especially the 5.7L Hemi and 3.0L Hurricane.
- Tier 2 (Reputable Aftermarket): Bosch, Champion. These brands offer high-quality Iridium and Platinum plugs that are a great alternative to OEM. Bosch Double Iridium plugs are a popular choice. Champion was an OEM supplier for older models and still makes reliable plugs.
- Tier 3 (Budget): Autolite, Skyward. These brands provide a more cost-effective option. They may use materials like platinum or copper instead of iridium, which means they won't last as long. For a Hemi that requires 16 plugs and significant labor, using a short-life plug is generally not recommended as you'll be repeating the job much sooner.
Pro Tip: Iridium is Worth It
The recommended replacement interval for factory iridium plugs is up to 100,000 miles. Cheaper copper plugs may need to be changed every 30,000 miles. Given the high labor cost (or time for a DIYer) for a Ram 1500, especially the Hemi, spending more on long-life iridium plugs saves you money and effort in the long run.
Estimated Costs for Spark Plug Replacement
The cost varies dramatically depending on your engine. A Hemi job is significantly more expensive due to the 16 plugs required and the labor time.
| Engine | Aftermarket Parts Cost (Set) | Shop Labor Cost | Estimated Total Cost (Installed) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.6L V6 (6 Plugs) | $40 - $120 | $150 - $250 | $190 - $370 |
| 5.7L Hemi V8 (16 Plugs) | $100 - $300+ | $250 - $500 | $350 - $800+ |
| 3.0L Hurricane I6 (6 Plugs) | $70 - $150 | $200 - $350 | $270 - $500 |
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I replace the spark plugs on my Ram 1500?
For the 3.6L V6 and 5.7L Hemi with factory iridium plugs, the recommended interval is typically 100,000 miles under normal driving conditions. For the new 3.0L Hurricane engine, the interval is shorter, around 60,000 miles. 🎬 Watch: An engineer's deep dive into the new Hurricane engine's maintenance. However, if you frequently tow, drive in harsh conditions, or notice symptoms of failure, you may need to replace them sooner.
Can I replace the spark plugs myself?
Yes, it is a DIY-feasible job if you have the right tools and patience. However, it can be challenging. On the 5.7L Hemi, the rear-most plugs on the driver's side are very difficult to access due to the brake booster. 🎬 Watch: This walkthrough shows the trick to reaching those Hemi plugs. On the 3.6L V6, the intake manifold must be removed to access three of the plugs. 🎬 See how to remove the intake manifold for V6 plug replacement. If you are not comfortable with this, it's best to leave it to a professional.
Why are there 16 spark plugs in my Hemi?
The 5.7L Hemi engine uses two plugs per cylinder. This design helps to more completely and efficiently burn the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber, which can improve power, fuel economy, and emissions.
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 always a good practice to verify the gap with a feeler gauge, you should never use a coin-style gapper on iridium plugs, as it can damage the fine-wire tip. If an adjustment is needed, use a proper tool that only bends the ground strap.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 68303913AA SP143877AB 68265438AB
Varies by engine. 5.7L Hemi uses 16 plugs, 3.6L V6 uses 6 plugs, 3.0L Hurricane uses 6 plugs. Most OEM plugs are Iridium with a 100,000-mile service life (60,000 for Hurricane).
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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.
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