2018 Chevrolet Equinox Spark Plug Type & Gap

Quick reference

Why the right plug matters

Using the correct spark plugs for your 2018 Chevrolet Equinox is crucial for optimal engine performance, fuel efficiency, and longevity. Spark plugs are a small but mighty component of your engine's ignition system, responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture that powers your vehicle.

The "heat range" of a spark plug refers to its ability to dissipate heat. A plug that's too "cold" can lead to fouling, while a plug that's too "hot" can cause pre-ignition and engine damage. Modern engines, like those in your Equinox, are precisely engineered, and the manufacturer-specified heat range is critical.

The electrode material also plays a significant role. Most modern engines, including both gasoline options in the 2018 Equinox, come with iridium-tipped spark plugs from the factory. Iridium is an extremely durable and heat-resistant precious metal, allowing for a finer electrode tip that produces a more concentrated spark. This translates to more efficient combustion, better fuel economy, and significantly longer service intervals compared to traditional copper plugs. Platinum plugs also offer extended life compared to copper, but generally not as long as iridium. Copper plugs, while excellent conductors, wear out much faster and are typically found in older or performance-oriented engines where frequent changes are part of the maintenance schedule.

How to gap a spark plug

While many modern iridium spark plugs come pre-gapped from the factory, it's always a good idea to double-check the gap before installation, especially if the plug has been dropped or handled roughly. For the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox, the recommended gap is 0.030 inches (0.75 mm).

To gap a spark plug, you'll need a gap gauge, which can be a coin-style gauge or a wire-style gauge. For accurate measurements on fine-wire iridium plugs, a wire-style gauge is preferred to avoid damaging the delicate electrode tip. Insert the appropriate wire or edge of the gauge between the center and ground electrodes. It should slide through with a slight drag.

If the gap is too small, you can gently widen it by carefully prying up the ground electrode with the gapping tool. Be extremely careful not to bend the fine-wire center electrode. If the gap is too wide, you can gently tap the ground electrode on a clean, solid surface to close it. Re-check the gap after each adjustment until it matches the specification.

Replacement procedure tips

The 2018 Chevrolet Equinox gasoline engines (1.5L and 2.0L Turbo) utilize a coil-on-plug (COP) ignition system. This means each spark plug has its own individual ignition coil mounted directly on top of it.

1. Safety First: Always ensure the engine is cool before starting. Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent accidental electrical discharge.
2. Access: You'll need to remove the engine cover to access the ignition coils. Carefully disconnect the electrical connector from each coil and then undo the bolt (usually a 10mm) holding the coil in place. Gently twist and pull to remove the coil from the spark plug well.
3. Spark Plug Removal: Use a spark plug socket (typically 5/8" or 16mm for most modern plugs) with an extension and ratchet to remove the old plugs. Turn counter-clockwise to loosen. Take care to avoid cross-threading when installing new plugs.
4. Anti-Seize Debate: There's ongoing debate regarding the use of anti-seize on spark plug threads. Most modern spark plugs, especially those from NGK and Denso, have a special coating on the threads that acts as an anti-seize. Applying additional anti-seize can lead to over-torquing and potential damage to the cylinder head threads, as anti-seize acts as a lubricant, reducing friction. Consult the spark plug manufacturer's recommendations. If you do use anti-seize, reduce the specified torque by about 10-20%.
5. Dielectric Grease: It's good practice to apply a small amount of dielectric grease inside the spark plug boot (the part of the coil that connects to the plug). This helps seal out moisture, prevents corrosion, and makes future removal easier. Avoid getting grease on the electrical contacts of the coil or the spark plug electrode itself.
6. Torque: Hand-thread the new spark plugs until snug. Then, use a torque wrench to tighten them to the specified 13 lb-ft (18 Nm). Proper torque is essential to ensure a good seal and prevent the plugs from backing out or being over-tightened, which can damage the spark plug or cylinder head.
7. Reassembly: Reinstall the ignition coils, ensuring they seat properly over the spark plugs. Reconnect the electrical connectors and then the engine cover. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.

Known issues

Fortunately, there are no widespread or notorious spark plug-related issues specific to the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox, such as the cracked porcelain problems seen in some older Ford 3-valve engines or unique ionization-sensing coils like those found on some GM 5.3L engines. Adhering to the recommended maintenance schedule and using the correct spark plugs will ensure reliable performance.

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