2025 Chevrolet Equinox Spark Plug Type, Gap & Torque

As an ASE-certified master technician, I regularly see late-model turbocharged vehicles in the bay suffering from misfires, rough idling, and poor fuel economy—all because of neglected spark plugs. The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox, powered by GM’s 1.5L turbocharged inline-4 engine, relies heavily on a strong, precise spark to maximize the efficiency of its direct fuel injection and forced induction systems.

Here is your comprehensive guide to the spark plug specifications, gap, torque, and replacement procedures for the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox.

Quick reference

Note: Motorcraft is Ford's OEM brand and is not recommended for GM vehicles.

Why the right plug matters

Modern turbocharged, direct-injected engines like the 1.5L in the 2025 Equinox operate under extreme cylinder pressures and temperatures. Choosing the right spark plug is critical for three main reasons:

1. Electrode Metal: The Equinox requires Iridium spark plugs from the factory. Iridium is significantly harder and more durable than platinum or copper. A standard copper plug would wear out in a fraction of the time under the extreme heat of a turbo engine. Iridium ensures a consistent spark across the entire 60,000-mile service interval.
2. Heat Range: The heat range dictates how fast the spark plug pulls heat away from the firing tip into the cylinder head. If you use a plug that is too "hot," it can cause pre-ignition (engine knock), which is devastating to a turbocharged engine. If it's too "cold," the plug will foul with carbon. Always stick to the OEM heat range.
3. Direct Injection Demands: Direct injection engines can create a turbulent combustion chamber. A highly focused spark, provided by a fine-wire iridium tip, is necessary to prevent misfires under heavy boost.

How to gap a spark plug

Most ACDelco and NGK iridium spark plugs come pre-gapped for your specific application. However, as a master tech, I always verify the gap before installation—shipping and handling can easily bump an electrode out of spec.

1. Use the Right Tool: Never use a coin-style gap tool on an iridium plug. The fine-wire center electrode is incredibly brittle and can easily snap. Instead, use a wire-style feeler gauge.
2. Check the Gap: Gently slide the 0.028" wire between the center and ground electrodes. It should slide through with a slight "drag."
3. Adjusting (if necessary): If the gap is too tight, use a dedicated gaping tool to gently pry only the ground strap upward. Never pry against the center iridium electrode.

Replacement procedure tips

The 2025 Equinox utilizes a Coil-On-Plug (COP) ignition system, meaning each spark plug has its own dedicated ignition coil sitting directly on top of it. There are no spark plug wires or distributors to worry about here.

• Coil-on-Plug Removal: Use a 10mm socket to remove the retaining bolt for each ignition coil. Twist the coil slightly as you pull upward to break the seal of the rubber boot without tearing it.
• The Anti-Seize Debate: GM and major plug manufacturers (like NGK) explicitly advise against using anti-seize compound on the threads of modern spark plugs. Modern plugs feature a special trivalent metal plating that prevents seizing in the aluminum cylinder head. Adding liquid anti-seize acts as a lubricant, which alters the thread friction and often results in over-torquing and breaking the plug. Install them dry.
• Dielectric Grease: While you skip the anti-seize, you absolutely should use a small dab of dielectric grease inside the tip of the ignition coil boot. This prevents moisture intrusion, stops high-voltage arcing, and ensures the boot won't stick to the porcelain of the new plug during the next service.

Known issues

While you don't have to worry about the infamous two-piece spark plug breakage associated with older Ford 3-valve engines, the GM 1.5L Turbo has its own quirks to watch out for.

• Carbon Tracking and Cracked Porcelain: Because the Equinox is turbocharged, a loose spark plug or a failing coil boot can cause the spark to jump down the side of the porcelain (carbon tracking) rather than firing across the gap. Always inspect the old plugs for vertical black lines on the white porcelain. If you see this, you must replace the ignition coil boot as well, or the new plug will instantly suffer the same fate.
• Direct Injection Carbon Buildup: Direct injection engines lack fuel wash over the intake valves, which can lead to carbon buildup. While not directly a spark plug failure, this buildup can cause rough idling that mimics a misfire. Sticking to the 60,000-mile plug interval ensures your ignition system is strong enough to power through minor intake turbulence.

Need plugs replaced? Find a shop on Repairius.