2015 Chevrolet Equinox Spark Plug Type, Gap & Torque

Quick Reference: 2015 Chevrolet Equinox Spark Plugs

Why the Right Spark Plug Matters

Choosing the correct spark plug isn’t just about finding one that fits; it’s about ensuring engine health, efficiency, and longevity. The spark plugs in your 2015 Equinox are a critical ignition system component, designed with specific characteristics for each engine.

• Heat Range: This is the plug's ability to dissipate heat. A plug that is too "hot" (doesn't dissipate heat well) can lead to pre-ignition, causing engine knock and potential piston damage. A plug that is too "cold" can accumulate carbon deposits, leading to misfires. Both the 2.4L and 3.6L engines in the Equinox call for iridium-tipped plugs, which have a very wide and efficient heat range, making them resilient to various operating conditions.

• Electrode Material: The material of the center and ground electrodes determines the plug's performance and lifespan.

  • Iridium: This is the OEM material for all 2015 Equinox engines. Iridium is an extremely hard, dense precious metal that resists wear and high temperatures exceptionally well. This allows manufacturers to use an ultra-fine center electrode, which requires less voltage to create a spark. The result is a more consistent and powerful spark, improved fuel efficiency, and a very long service interval—typically 100,000 miles.
  • Platinum: A good alternative, but a step down from iridium. Platinum plugs also offer long life but can't match the performance and durability of an iridium plug.
  • Copper: Standard copper plugs are not recommended for the 2015 Equinox. They have a much shorter lifespan (20,000-30,000 miles) and their larger electrode requires more voltage, which can stress the modern coil-on-plug ignition system.

How to Gap a Spark Plug

Properly gapping a spark plug is crucial. The gap is the distance between the center and ground electrodes. If it's too small, the spark may be weak; if it's too large, it may not fire at all. While most premium iridium plugs come pre-gapped, it is essential to verify the gap before installation.

1. Use the Right Tool: Use a feeler gauge or a specific spark plug gap tool. Do not use the cheap "ramp" style gap tools, as they can put pressure on the fragile fine-wire electrode and break it.
2. Check the Gap: Gently slide the correct wire or blade of your feeler gauge between the electrodes. It should have a slight drag. For the 2.4L, use the 0.040" (1.0 mm) blade; for the 3.6L, use the 0.043" (1.1 mm) blade.
3. Adjust Carefully: If adjustment is needed, do not pry against the center electrode. Instead, gently bend the ground strap (the curved metal piece) using the adjustment slot on your gapping tool until the correct gap is achieved. Re-check the measurement. Only a very light touch is needed.

Replacement Procedure Tips for 2015 Equinox

Both the 2.4L and 3.6L engines use a modern Coil-on-Plug (COP) ignition system, which eliminates the need for a distributor and spark plug wires. Each spark plug has its own dedicated ignition coil sitting directly on top of it.

• Coil-on-Plug Removal: Disconnect the electrical connector from the coil. Remove the single hold-down bolt (typically a 10mm). Gently twist and pull the coil straight up to remove it from the spark plug.

• The Anti-Seize Debate: Modern spark plugs, like the specified ACDelco iridium plugs, have a special trivalent plating that acts as an anti-seize and corrosion inhibitor. Major manufacturers like NGK and ACDelco specifically recommend not using additional anti-seize compound on these plugs. Applying it can alter the torque reading, leading you to over-tighten the plug, which can stretch the plug’s shell and cause catastrophic engine damage.

• Dielectric Grease: A small amount of dielectric grease applied to the inside of the spark plug boot (the end of the ignition coil that sits on the plug) is highly recommended. This grease does not conduct electricity; instead, it seals out moisture, prevents corrosion on the terminal, and makes it much easier to remove the coil in the future.

• Torque Wrench is Mandatory: Do not guess the torque. Use a torque wrench and tighten the plugs to the exact specification (15 lb-ft for the 2.4L, 13 lb-ft for the 3.6L). Over-tightening can break the plug or damage the cylinder head threads. Under-tightening can allow the plug to back out, causing a loss of compression.

Known Issues

The 2015 Chevrolet Equinox is not known for widespread, systemic spark plug issues like the infamous Ford 3-valve Triton plug breakage. The engines use a conventional one-piece spark plug design that is robust and reliable. By following the correct procedures—verifying the gap, using a torque wrench, and omitting anti-seize—a spark plug replacement on either the 2.4L or 3.6L engine is a very straightforward and low-risk job.

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