2017 Ford Escape Spark Plug Type & Gap

Quick Reference

Why The Right Plug Matters

Choosing the correct spark plug for your 2017 Ford Escape is crucial for optimal engine performance, fuel efficiency, and longevity. Spark plugs are not a "one-size-fits-all" component; various factors like heat range, electrode material, and gap play a significant role.

Heat Range: This refers to the plug's ability to dissipate heat. A "hot" plug retains more heat, suitable for engines that typically run at lower temperatures to prevent fouling. A "cold" plug dissipates heat quickly, ideal for high-performance or forced-induction engines to prevent pre-ignition and detonation. Using the wrong heat range can lead to engine damage or reduced performance.

Electrode Metal:

• Iridium: The most common and recommended choice for late-model vehicles like the 2017 Ford Escape. Iridium plugs have extremely fine electrodes, allowing for a concentrated spark and exceptional durability. They offer a long service life, typically 100,000 miles or more, and are standard in most modern EcoBoost engines.
• Platinum: Often found in OEM applications, platinum plugs also offer a extended lifespan (around 60,000-100,000 miles) due to their resistance to wear. Double-platinum plugs have platinum on both the center and ground electrodes, further enhancing durability.
• Copper: While excellent conductors, copper plugs have a shorter lifespan (around 30,000 miles) because copper is a softer metal. They are typically used in older vehicles or specific performance applications where frequent replacement isn't an issue. You'll rarely find copper plugs as OEM for a 2017 Ford Escape.

How to Gap a Spark Plug

For most modern vehicles using iridium or platinum plugs, the spark plugs come pre-gapped from the factory. It is generally advised not to attempt to gap these plugs, as their fine electrodes can be easily damaged. Always double-check the gap against the manufacturer's specifications, but only adjust if absolutely necessary and with extreme care.

If you do need to gap a spark plug, a wire-type spark plug gapping tool is essential. Avoid using the coin-style gapping tool, as it can damage the side electrode. Gently slide the gapping tool between the electrodes. If the gap is too small, use the bending tool on the gauge to slightly increase it. If it's too wide, carefully tap the ground electrode on a hard, non-abrasive surface to close the gap. Always re-check the gap after any adjustment.

Replacement Procedure Tips for 2017 Ford Escape

The 2017 Ford Escape utilizes a coil-on-plug (COP) ignition system, meaning each spark plug has its own individual ignition coil directly mounted on top. This setup eliminates the need for spark plug wires.

1. Preparation: Ensure the engine is cool before starting. Disconnect the negative battery terminal for safety. Gather your tools: a ratchet, appropriate sockets (typically 5/8" or 16mm spark plug socket with a rubber insert), extensions, a torque wrench, dielectric grease, and possibly compressed air.

2. Coil-on-Plug Removal: Carefully disconnect the electrical connector from each ignition coil. There's usually a small tab to press or a slide to release. Then, unbolt the coil (if applicable, some simply pull out with clips) and gently pull it straight up to remove it from the spark plug well.

3. Clean Plug Wells: Before removing the old spark plugs, use compressed air to blow out any debris from around the spark plug wells. This prevents dirt and grime from falling into the combustion chamber once the plug is removed.

4. Spark Plug Removal: Use a spark plug socket to loosen and remove the old plugs. Turn counter-clockwise. Be gentle to avoid stripping the threads.

5. Anti-Seize Debate: The use of anti-seize compound on spark plug threads is a hotly debated topic. Modern spark plugs often come with a special coating that acts as an anti-seize. Applying additional anti-seize can alter the torque readings, potentially leading to over-tightening. For platinum and iridium plugs, most manufacturers, including Ford, recommend against using anti-seize. If you do choose to use it, apply a very thin layer and reduce the torque specification by approximately 10-20%.

6. Installation of New Plugs: Hand-thread the new spark plugs into the cylinder head initially to prevent cross-threading. Once finger-tight, use a torque wrench to tighten them to the manufacturer's specified torque value (11-13 lb-ft / 15-18 Nm for the 2017 Escape engines).

7. Dielectric Grease: Apply a small amount of dielectric grease (non-conductive) to the inside of 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.

8. Reinstall Coils: Reinstall the ignition coils, ensuring they are properly seated over the spark plugs. Reconnect the electrical connectors. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.

Known Issues

Thankfully, the 2017 Ford Escape engines (1.5L EcoBoost, 2.0L EcoBoost, 2.5L Duratec) do not have widespread, notorious spark plug issues like the earlier Ford 3-valve engines with their problematic 2-piece spark plugs prone to breaking. However, it's still essential to use the correct plugs and follow proper installation procedures to prevent issues like misfires or premature wear.

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