Best Spark Plug & Ignition Tools in 2022

Last update: December 18, 2022

Are all spark plugs the same size socket?

Most spark plugs have a 14mm thread size, but some have a smaller thread size. The size of the socket you need depends on the size of the spark plug.

Can I change an ignition coil myself?

If your car is having trouble starting or the engine is misfiring, it may be time to change the ignition coil. While this is a repair that you can do yourself, it is important to know what you are doing before you begin. Otherwise, you could end up causing more damage to your car.

Can I use WD-40 to remove a stuck spark plug?

WD-40 is a great way to remove a stuck spark plug. Just spray some WD-40 onto the spark plug and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, use a spark plug wrench to remove the spark plug.

Can spark plugs be changed without tools?

No, you will need a socket wrench to remove and replace the spark plugs.


ARES 11000-14mm Thin Wall Magnetic Swivel Spark Plug Socket - 3/8-Inch Drive 12-Point Spark Plug Socket - Walls 2mm Thinner Than Standard Spark Plug Sockets Review:


For changing the plugs in a BMW N55 engine, this is ideal. The attached extension is fantastic because it eliminates the possibility of a socket coming loose from your extension while it is inserted into the spark plug hole. It is also incredibly versatile because to the hexagonal connection between the socket and attached extension. I erred in thinking that a standard 14mm deepwell could be utilized before purchasing this; they cannot. If I could, I'd give this 10 stars.



LEXIVON 9/16" Ford F150 Spark Plug Swivel Socket, 3/8" Drive x 6" Total Length | Enhanced Magnetic Design with Thin Wall Socket, Cr-v Steel (LX-123) Review:


If you own a 3VZ-E engine, you may be aware of the frequently criticized access to the cylinder #5 plug. I advise choosing this easier and less expensive Lexivon instead of the multi-extension devices that many DIYers advocate. Don't let the horror stories on numerous forums scare you into paying a repair center $300 or more for a plug swap. You can save the inconvenience of purchasing 1/4" hose at the neighborhood hardware store and obtain a more exact feel with the hand-operated Lexivon by using electrical tape on the drive end (circled) to hand start the new plug before you complete with the 3/8" drive socket wrench. If anyone is interested in seeing all the tools I used to perform the plug switch, let me know and I'll add a photo to this review.



Lexivon 5/8" Swivel Magnetic Spark Plug Socket, 3/8" Drive x 6" Total Length | Enhanced Magnetic Design With Thin Wall Socket, Cr-v Steel (LX-121) Review:


If you own a 3VZ-E engine, you may be aware of the frequently criticized access to the cylinder #5 plug. I advise choosing this easier and less expensive Lexivon instead of the multi-extension devices that many DIYers advocate. Don't let the horror stories on numerous forums scare you into paying a repair center $300 or more for a plug swap. You can save the inconvenience of purchasing 1/4" hose at the neighborhood hardware store and obtain a more exact feel with the hand-operated Lexivon by using electrical tape on the drive end (circled) to hand start the new plug before you complete with the 3/8" drive socket wrench. If anyone is interested in seeing all the tools I used to perform the plug switch, let me know and I'll add a photo to this review.



ATLIN Thin Wall Spark Plug Socket 12-Point, 14-millimeters Compatible with BMW, Nissan, Mini Review:


It was time to change the spark plugs in my 2009 Mini Cooper Clubman S (R55), and the last time I did it, my older spark plug socket kept disconnecting when I screwed in the new plugs. Even though I was able to find the socket, it was more challenging than it needed to be to install 4 new spark plugs.I purchased the ATLIN Thin Wall Spark Plug Socket 12 point 14mm along with my new spark plugs. The ATLIN socket worked as intended and matched my 3/8" drive.The build quality was nice, and I will now keep this socket in my auto toolbox. This socket was nicer than my previous one in that it did not disconnect after installing and torqueing the new spark plugs. The nice thing is also that there is a small plastic retainer inside the socket to prevent plugs from falling or slipping out when you install your new spark plugs.



ARES 70045-3/8-Inch Drive by 5/8-Inch Magnetic Swivel Spark Plug Socket - 10-Inch Swivel Extension Permits Access to Most Confined Areas Review:


This spark plug socket and extender is highly recommended. The extension is the ideal height such that it sticks out of the engine without being too high to contact the cowling. A straight socket would not have been able to go into the cylinder where I needed it to, thanks to the swivel.I wasn't concerned about the spark plugs falling into the cylinders because the magnet is pretty powerful and clings onto them very securely.There isn't much more to say; considering that Honda charged me $180 and it took me 15 minutes to complete the task myself, it was simply the best tool for the job.



LEXIVON 5/8" Swivel Magnetic Spark Plug Socket, 3/8" Drive x 10" Total Length | Enhanced Magnetic Design With Thin Wall Socket, Cr-v Steel (LX-122) Review:


used to swap out the plugs on two Honda vehicles. both the 1.5 and 1.8 liters. Since you only need your rachet and this tool to do the task, the reach is ideal and makes it much simpler. The magnet is much stronger than the previous rubber inserts and is a welcome change. Although it is somewhat expensive, DIYers already know how much money they can save by not hiring a repair.The fact that I didn't have one earlier is what I regret most.



ARES 70190-3/8-Inch Drive by 5/8-Inch Magnetic Swivel Spark Plug Socket - 6-Inch Swivel Extension Permits Access to Most Confined Areas Review:


For the majority of the fundamentals, such as oil, breaks, transmission, and suspension, I'm merely a home mechanic.used to install NGK ILZKR7B11 plugs on a 2013 Honda Accord V6 4 door. Particularly on the back plugs facing the firewall, this item performed admirably. The item matched the original NGK (which is what I also replaced with). The back of the tool protrudes outward by about 1/2 inch as the unit goes into the spark plug tube. You understand what a fantastic feature this is if you've ever had a socket disconnect inside the tube.When you hand-start the new plugs and then attach the ratchet to finish the tightening, it is simple to operate. There is no need to worry about the plug coming out of the socket when you don't want it to because it is firmly held in place.In one instance, the tool almost appeared to be biting into the plug's nut and wanted to let me to remove the old plug from the socket. I then applied a small amount of lubricant to the socket walls. No additional obstacles for the previous five plugs.For the 2013 Honda Accord V6, I could use this on the back three plugs with ease. It would have enough bend and wiggle to be taken in and out with ease, and it would have tremendously aided in starting the new plugs.I would buy once more.



CTA Tools 3238 9 Wire Spark Plug Gap Gauge Review:


An appropriate tool for measuring or correcting plug gaps. It doesn't cover the entire range of gauge sizes, but it does cover the majority of the "usual" gaps. Based on the price, I gave it a rating of 4 out of 5 stars because I thought it was a bit expensive for what you were getting. The product appears reliable enough to carry out its functions. So far, I've used it on two sets of plugs, and everything is OK. As long as you are not making contact with the center electrode or insulator, you can adjust iridium and platinum plugs with this tool successfully and without causing harm. The ground electrode on the majority of plugs may be adjusted with this tool, which is the proper approach to gap a plug. The plug WILL be damaged if you attempt to pry between the ground and center electrodes.



Ram-Pro in-Line Spark Plug Engine Ignition Tester, 6-12 Volt Fool-Proof – Pick Up Coil/Armature Diagnostic Detector Tool – for Automotive, Car, Lawnmower, Small & Big Internal/External Engines Review:


Simply expressed, I bought this Ram-Pro In-Line Spark Plug Engine Ignition for the purpose for which it is described. Instead of withdrawing the spark plug each time, I placed it between the plug wire and the spark plug. This lets me know whether the electronic ignition or the points are working. or if the spark plug has to be checked. I have read some unfavorable reviews. I haven't agreed with them yet. So far, I haven't had a problem with the length. With a piece of plug wire measuring 7 or 8 mm for the deep spark plugs in the valve covers (and the best part is, you can make it longer), otherwise for the engine's hidden spark plugs. Even longer wire could be included in the package by the manufacturer. And yet another. When testing the spark plug that has been unscrewed from the head, the tester's light could be brighter. Most of the time, that is not necessary. With this tester, I'm pleased.



【The Best Deal】OriGlam Spark Plug Tester, Adjustable Ignition System Coil Tester, Coil-on Plug Ignition Spark Circuit Tester, Autos Diagnostic Test Tool Review:


A brief review reveals that it performs as expected, is of great quality for what it is, and allows you to alter the gap to see how strong and what color your spark is (easy to see against black background)Long review: I've been working on lawn mowers, chainsaws, and other small engines on the side a lot lately. I started with one of the light-up tests but quickly learned how useless they are. They ignite at the least provocation, even if it doesn't actually "light" a spark plug. Got bored of attempting to do the whole, hold the plug against the cylinder head, pull the engine over just enough to produce a spark, while avoiding being shocked, and try to determine the color of the spark.However, several of the more expensive testers, like this one, were out of my price range. Enter this little guy.Initial impressions were positive. Strong enough to tolerate a less-than-pleasant atmosphere thanks to its weight, good cable and clamp, and brass adjustment screw (my garage). The markers are nice to obtain a consistent feel for spark gap, and the flat black background makes it simple to view the spark (blue, yellow, or whatever).Cons:The brass screw's fit is loose, as has already been said by others. You kind of want this to be solid so the gap doesn't move about while you're using it. To make the brass screw stay where I wanted it to, I practically marred the threads. I might try again to tighten it up with some aluminum foil or even a piece of a drink can. This is the issue I have with it the most.The marks are the only other drawback in my opinion; you sort of have to figure out what they represent using the "decoder" on the back of the container. After using the box a few times, I threw it out and now just use the marks as a general guide. You gain a sense of what's good, awful, or in between after a few uses.Due of the two drawbacks, one star is deducted. Excellent little tool for simple diagnostics, aside from that.


Do you have to disconnect battery to change spark plugs?

The answer is no, you don't have to disconnect the battery to change spark plugs. However, it's a good idea to disconnect the negative (-) battery terminal to avoid any electrical shorts.

Does car run better after changing spark plugs?

If your car is having trouble starting, idling rough, or frequently stalling, then changing the spark plugs may help. Many mechanics will also recommend changing the spark plugs if your car is due for a tune-up. New spark plugs can make your car run better by firing the spark plugs more efficiently.

How do I know what size spark plug I need?

Is changing ignition coils easy?

Ignition coils are a vital part of any car engine, converting the low voltage of the battery into the high voltage needed to fire the spark plugs. Over time, they can wear out and need to be replaced. While changing ignition coils may not be the easiest car repair, it is certainly doable for the average car owner. The most important thing is to make sure you get the right coils for your car model. Once you have the correct coils, the rest is simply a matter of unplugging the old ones and plugging in the new ones. If you

Should I replace spark plugs and ignition coils at the same time?

If your car is experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may be time to replace the spark plugs and/or ignition coils: -Engine misfires -Rough idle - poor fuel economy - loss of power While it is not necessary to replace the spark plugs and ignition coils at the same time, it is often recommended. Replacing both at the same time can help to ensure that your car is running smoothly and efficiently.

What are the 3 types of spark plug?

The three types of spark plugs are: -Gap -Surface-gap -Pencil-tip Gap spark plugs have a gap between the electrodes, while surface-gap spark plugs have the electrodes flush with the surface of the plug. Pencil-tip spark plugs have a small, pointed tip on the electrode.