2017 Ford F-150 Spark Plug Type & Gap

Quick reference

Why the right plug matters

Choosing the correct spark plug for your 2017 Ford F-150 is crucial for optimal engine performance, fuel efficiency, and longevity. Modern engines, especially sophisticated designs like Ford's EcoBoost, are sensitive to spark plug specifications. Using the wrong plug can lead to misfires, reduced power, poor fuel economy, and even costly engine damage.

Heat Range: Spark plugs are designed with a specific "heat range" that dictates how quickly they dissipate heat from the combustion chamber. A plug that's too "cold" (dissipates heat too quickly) can lead to fouling, while one that's too "hot" can cause pre-ignition or detonation, which can severely damage engine components. Always stick to the OEM-specified heat range.

Electrode Metal: The material of the spark plug electrode significantly impacts its lifespan and performance.

• Iridium: This is the most common and recommended material for modern engines like those in the 2017 F-150. Iridium plugs offer exceptional durability and a fine-wire electrode that promotes a strong, consistent spark. They typically provide the longest service life, often exceeding 100,000 miles in many applications (though Ford recommends 60,000 miles for the F-150).
• Platinum: Platinum plugs are a step up from copper, offering better durability and a longer lifespan than traditional copper plugs. They are often used as OEM plugs in some vehicles.
• Copper: Copper plugs are excellent conductors of electricity but have a shorter lifespan due to the softer nature of copper. While they can provide a strong spark, they require more frequent replacement and are generally not recommended for modern vehicles designed for extended-life iridium or platinum plugs.

How to gap a spark plug

Proper spark plug gap is essential for a complete combustion cycle. A gap that is too wide can strain the ignition system, leading to misfires, while a gap that is too narrow can result in a weaker spark and incomplete combustion. You'll need a spark plug gap tool, typically a wire-type gauge, to accurately measure and adjust the gap.

1. Consult the Specs: Always refer to the manufacturer's recommended gap specifications (provided in the table above).
2. Measure: Gently slide the appropriate wire gauge through the spark plug gap. It should offer slight resistance.
3. Adjust (if needed): If the gap is incorrect, carefully bend the ground electrode using the adjustment tool on your gapping gauge. For a wider gap, gently pry the ground electrode away from the center electrode. For a narrower gap, carefully tap the ground electrode on a hard, non-marring surface. Never bend or pry on the center electrode.
4. Re-measure: Always re-measure after any adjustment to ensure accuracy. Repeat until the gap is within specification.

Many modern iridium and platinum plugs are "pre-gapped" from the factory. While it's always a good idea to check the gap, avoid making adjustments unless absolutely necessary, as the delicate iridium or platinum tip can be easily damaged.

Replacement procedure tips

Replacing spark plugs on a 2017 Ford F-150, especially the EcoBoost models, requires a bit more care than older, simpler engines. All 2017 F-150 engines use a coil-on-plug (COP) ignition system, meaning each spark plug has its own individual ignition coil directly mounted above it.

• Coil-on-Plug Removal: To access the spark plugs, you'll need to carefully disconnect the electrical connector from each coil and then unbolt the coil itself. A gentle twisting motion can help loosen the coil boot from the spark plug if it's stuck.
• Anti-Seize Debate: There's a long-standing debate about using anti-seize on spark plug threads. Ford, like many manufacturers, generally recommends against using anti-seize on their spark plugs. Modern spark plugs often have a special coating on the threads, and adding anti-seize can throw off torque readings and potentially lead to over-tightening or issues with the plug working itself loose. Stick to the specified dry torque value.
• Dielectric Grease on Boots: Applying a small amount of dielectric grease inside the spark plug boot (where it contacts the ceramic portion of the spark plug) is highly recommended. This helps prevent moisture intrusion, insulates against voltage leaks, and makes future removal easier.
• Torque Wrench is Your Friend: Always use a torque wrench to tighten spark plugs to the manufacturer's specifications. Over-tightening can damage the plug or cylinder head threads, while under-tightening can lead to combustion gas leaks or the plug backing out.

Known issues

Thankfully, the 2017 Ford F-150 engines generally do not suffer from the dreaded "broken spark plug" issues that plagued earlier Ford 3-valve V8 engines (e.g., 2004-2008 F-150 5.4L Triton). Those engines used a unique two-piece spark plug design that was prone to separating during removal. The spark plugs in your 2017 F-150 are a conventional one-piece design and should come out without issue, provided they haven't been neglected for an excessive period.

However, proper care during removal and installation is always important. Ensure the engine is cool when removing spark plugs to minimize the risk of damaging cylinder head threads, especially if you have aluminum heads.

Need plugs replaced? Find a shop on Repairius.