2020 Ford Ranger Spark Plug Type & Gap

Quick reference

Why the right plug matters

Choosing the correct spark plug for your 2020 Ford Ranger's 2.3L EcoBoost engine is crucial for optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and engine longevity. Spark plugs are essentially the ignition source for your engine, creating the spark that ignites the air-fuel mixture. The type of material used for the electrode, the heat range, and the gap all play significant roles in how effectively this process occurs.

Heat Range: Spark plugs are designed with a specific heat range, indicating their ability to dissipate heat. A "hotter" plug retains more heat, while a "colder" plug dissipates heat more quickly. Using a plug with an incorrect heat range can lead to pre-ignition (too hot) or fouling (too cold), both of which can cause engine damage or reduced performance.

Electrode Metal: Modern spark plugs utilize various metals for their electrodes, each offering different benefits:

• Iridium: This is the most common material for long-life spark plugs, as found in your 2020 Ranger. Iridium is incredibly hard and has a very high melting point, allowing for fine-wire electrodes that provide a strong, consistent spark for extended periods (typically 100,000 miles).
• Platinum: Platinum plugs are also durable and offer good longevity, often rated for 60,000 to 100,000 miles. They are generally more affordable than iridium but don't quite match their extreme durability.
• Copper: Copper plugs have a thicker center electrode and are excellent conductors of electricity. However, copper is a softer metal, meaning these plugs wear out more quickly, typically requiring replacement every 20,000-30,000 miles. While not typically found as OEM in newer vehicles like your Ranger, they are often used in older, high-performance applications where frequent changes are acceptable.

How to gap a spark plug

While many modern iridium spark plugs come pre-gapped from the factory, it