2019 Ford Explorer Spark Plug Type & Gap

Quick Reference

Why the right plug matters

Choosing the correct spark plug for your 2019 Ford Explorer is more critical than you might imagine. The wrong plug can lead to reduced fuel economy, misfires, poor acceleration, and even engine damage. Key factors to consider are heat range, electrode material, and proper gapping.

Heat Range: This refers to the plug's ability to dissipate heat from the combustion chamber. A "hot" plug retains more heat, while a "cold" plug dissipates more quickly. Using a plug with an incorrect heat range can lead to pre-ignition (too hot) or fouling (too cold). For the 2019 Explorer, the factory-specified heat ranges are precisely matched to each engine's operating characteristics.

Electrode Material:

• Iridium: Most 2019 Ford Explorer engines come with iridium-tipped spark plugs from the factory. Iridium is incredibly hard and has a very high melting point, allowing for fine-wire electrodes that produce a strong, consistent spark. This also contributes to their exceptional longevity, typically lasting 100,000 miles or more.
• Platinum: Platinum plugs are also known for their durability and good performance, often lasting 60,000-80,000 miles. They are a step up from traditional copper plugs but generally don't offer the same lifespan as iridium. While some aftermarket platinum options may exist for your Explorer, the OEM recommendation leans towards iridium for optimal performance and extended service intervals.
• Copper: While excellent conductors, copper plugs have thicker electrodes and wear out much faster than iridium or platinum, usually requiring replacement every 15,000-30,000 miles. They are generally not recommended for modern engines like those in the 2019 Explorer, which are designed for long-life plugs.

How to gap a spark plug

Properly gapping your spark plugs is crucial for a strong spark and efficient combustion. While most modern iridium plugs come pre-gapped from the factory, it's always wise to double-check before installation, especially with aftermarket options. Use a wire-type or coin-style gap gauge for accuracy. Avoid using ramp-style gauges on fine-wire plugs, as they can damage the delicate iridium tip.

To adjust the gap, carefully bend the ground electrode. If the gap is too small, gently pry the electrode open with a gapping tool. If it's too large, gently tap the ground electrode on a clean, hard surface to close the gap. Always re-measure after each adjustment until you reach the specified gap for your engine.

Replacement procedure tips

Replacing spark plugs on your 2019 Ford Explorer is a manageable DIY task, but a few tips can make it smoother:

• Coil-on-Plug Removal: All 2019 Explorer engines use a coil-on-plug (COP) ignition system. Each spark plug has its own ignition coil mounted directly above it. To remove, disconnect the electrical connector, then unbolt the coil (if applicable) and pull it straight up. Be gentle with the connectors to avoid breakage.
• Anti-Seize Debate: There's ongoing discussion about using anti-seize on spark plug threads. Ford's official stance for many modern engines with nickel-plated spark plugs is not to use anti-seize. The nickel plating provides adequate anti-seize properties, and adding more can alter the torque specification, potentially leading to over-tightening or undertightening. Follow the manufacturer's recommendation.
• Dielectric Grease on Boots: A small amount of dielectric grease can be applied to the inside of the spark plug boots or on the ceramic portion of the new spark plug. This helps to seal out moisture, prevents the boot from sticking to the plug, and aids in easier removal next time.
• Clean the Area: Before removing any plugs, use compressed air to blow away any dirt or debris around the coil packs. This prevents foreign material from falling into the combustion chamber once the old plug is removed.
• Torque Wrench is Your Friend: Always use a torque wrench to tighten the new spark plugs to the manufacturer's specified torque. Over-tightening can damage the plug or cylinder head threads, while under-tightening can lead to blow-outs or poor electrical connection.

Known issues

Fortunately, the 2019 Ford Explorer does not have widespread, well-known issues specific to spark plugs reminiscent of the problematic 2-piece design found in older Ford 3-valve engines (e.g., Triton V8s). The spark plugs used in these engines are conventional one-piece designs, significantly reducing the risk of breakage during removal. However, like any engine, regular maintenance and using the correct spark plugs are key to preventing potential problems.

Need plugs replaced? Find a shop on Repairius.