2023 Chevrolet Equinox — Spark Plug Type & Gap

Quick reference

Why the right plug matters

Your 2023 Chevrolet Equinox relies on precisely engineered spark plugs to deliver optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions control. Using the correct spark plug—specifically, one with the right heat range and electrode material—is paramount.

Heat Range: Spark plugs are designed with a specific heat range, which dictates how quickly the plug dissipates heat from its tip. A plug that's too "cold" (dissipates too much heat) can lead to fouling, while one that's too "hot" (dissipates too little) can cause pre-ignition or detonation, both of which can severely damage your engine.

Electrode Metal: Modern engines like those in the Equinox typically use premium spark plugs with advanced electrode materials:

• Iridium: This is the most common material for long-life plugs. Iridium is extremely hard and has a very high melting point, allowing for fine-wire electrodes that produce a strong, focused spark. This contributes to better fuel economy and extended service intervals. The ACDelco 41-167 and its NGK and Denso equivalents are iridium-tipped.
• Platinum: Platinum plugs also offer extended life over traditional copper plugs, though generally not as long as iridium. They typically feature a platinum pad on the center electrode and sometimes also on the ground electrode.
• Copper: While excellent conductors and often found in older or high-performance applications that require frequent changes, copper plugs have a much shorter lifespan due to the softer material. They are rarely specified for modern vehicles like your Equinox from the factory.

How to gap a spark plug

While most modern iridium and platinum spark plugs come pre-gapped from the factory, it's always a good idea to double-check, especially if you're using an aftermarket plug. However, exercise extreme caution as the fine-wire electrodes on iridium plugs are delicate and can be easily damaged.

To gap a spark plug, you'll need a wire-type spark plug gapping tool. Avoid disc-style gappers, as they can damage fine-wire electrodes. Gently slide the appropriate wire gauge (0.030-0.032 inches for your Equinox) between the center and ground electrodes. If an adjustment is needed, very carefully bend only the ground electrode slightly with the gapping tool. Never apply pressure to the center electrode or attempt to bend it.

Replacement procedure tips

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox uses a coil-on-plug ignition system, meaning each spark plug has its own individual ignition coil mounted directly above it. This design eliminates traditional spark plug wires and improves ignition efficiency.

1. Access: You'll need to remove the engine cover to access the ignition coils. Carefully disconnect the electrical connectors from each coil and then unbolt the coils. They usually just pull straight up and out. Keep track of which coil goes to which cylinder.
2. Cleanliness is Key: Before removing the old plugs, use compressed air around the spark plug wells to blow out any dirt or debris. This prevents contaminants from falling into the combustion chamber when the old plug is removed.
3. Anti-Seize Debate: There's ongoing debate regarding the use of anti-seize compound on spark plug threads. For modern spark plugs with nickel-plated shells (like those for your Equinox), most manufacturers (including ACDelco, NGK, and Denso) recommend against using anti-seize. The nickel plating acts as a natural anti-seize, and applying additional compound can lead to over-torquing the plug, potentially damaging the cylinder head or breaking the plug.
4. Torque Matters: Always use a torque wrench to tighten spark plugs to the manufacturer's specifications (18 lb-ft / 25 Nm for your Equinox). Over-tightening can strip threads or crack the porcelain insulator, while under-tightening can lead to poor heat transfer and cause the plug to loosen over time.
5. Dielectric Grease: Apply a small amount of dielectric grease inside the boot of each ignition coil before reinstallation. This helps prevent moisture entry, reduces the chance of misfires, and makes future removal easier.

Known issues

Fortunately, there are no widespread or notorious spark plug-related issues specific to the 2023 Chevrolet Equinox. Unlike some past Ford 3-valve engines with their problematic two-piece spark plugs prone to breakage, or certain GM engines that used ionization-sensing coils, the Equinox's ignition system is generally robust when properly maintained.

However, general spark plug issues can still occur if maintenance is neglected or incorrect plugs are used. These include misfires due to worn electrodes, fouling from excessive carbon buildup, or damage from improper gapping or torquing.

Need plugs replaced? Find a shop on Repairius.