2022 Ford Ranger Spark Plug Type & Gap

Quick reference

Why the right plug matters

The spark plugs in your 2022 Ford Ranger's 2.3L EcoBoost engine are critical for optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions. Choosing the right spark plug type and ensuring proper gapping and torque are essential. Here's why:

• Heat Range: Spark plugs are designed with a specific "heat range" – their ability to dissipate heat from the combustion chamber. A plug that's too hot can lead to pre-ignition and detonation, damaging your engine. A plug that's too cold can cause carbon fouling. For the 2.3L EcoBoost, the specified heat range ensures efficient combustion and prevents issues characteristic of direct-injection, turbocharged engines.

• Electrode Metal: Modern engines like your Ranger's utilize advanced spark plug electrode materials for longevity and consistent performance:

  • Iridium: This is the most common and robust material for modern spark plugs. Iridium plugs have extremely fine electrodes, allowing for a concentrated spark, improved ignitability, and a service life of 60,000 miles or more, as seen in your Ranger.
  • Platinum: While not typically used in the Ranger's primary application, platinum plugs offer good durability but generally less than iridium. They often come in single or double platinum variations.
  • Copper: Copper plugs have a large center electrode and are excellent conductors of electricity. However, their softer material wears quickly, making them unsuitable for the extended service intervals of modern engines. You won't find copper plugs as OEM for your 2022 Ranger.

Using the wrong material or a budget plug not designed for the 2.3L EcoBoost can lead to misfires, reduced power, poor fuel economy, and premature plug wear.

How to gap a spark plug

While many aftermarket spark plugs for your 2022 Ranger come pre-gapped, it's always a good idea to double-check and adjust if necessary. The 2.3L EcoBoost requires a precise gap of 0.028-0.031 inches (0.7-0.79 mm).

1. Gather your tools: You'll need a gap gauge, typically a coin-style or wire-style gauge. Wire-style gauges are generally more accurate for fine-wire electrodes found on iridium plugs.
2. Measure the gap: Carefully slide the appropriate wire gauge between the center and ground electrodes. It should have a slight drag. If using a coin-style gauge, find the measurement where the electrode just barely touches the gauge.
3. Adjusting the gap:
   • To increase the gap: Use the gap gauge to gently bend the ground electrode away from the center electrode. Be very gentle to avoid damaging the fine iridium tip.
   • To decrease the gap: Carefully tap the ground electrode against a hard, non-abrasive surface until the gap closes slightly. Re-measure and repeat as needed.

Important: Never pry directly on the center electrode or attempt to bend it. The fine iridium tip is fragile.

Replacement procedure tips

Changing spark plugs on your 2022 Ford Ranger's 2.3L EcoBoost is a straightforward but precise task. Here are some tips:

• Coil-on-plug removal: Your Ranger uses a coil-on-plug (COP) ignition system. Each spark plug has its own ignition coil directly on top. To remove, disconnect the electrical connector, then unbolt the coil (usually a 7mm or 8mm bolt). Gently twist and pull the coil straight up to remove it from the spark plug well. Avoid pulling on the wiring harness.
• Anti-seize debate: There's ongoing debate about using anti-seize on spark plug threads. Ford, like many manufacturers, specifies that anti-seize should not be used on spark plugs with nickel-plated shells, as it can alter the torque readings and lead to over-tightening. The Motorcraft SP-578 and most quality aftermarket plugs are nickel-plated. Follow the manufacturer's recommendation: install them dry and torque to spec.
• Dielectric grease on boots: Apply a small amount of dielectric grease inside the rubber boot of each ignition coil. This helps seal out moisture, prevents corrosion, and makes future removal easier.
• Torque to spec: The 2.3L EcoBoost spark plugs require a torque of 11 lb-ft (15 Nm). Using a torque wrench is crucial to prevent over-tightening (which can damage the plug, cylinder head threads, or distort the plug's heat range) or under-tightening (which can cause combustion gases to leak, leading to misfires and overheating).
• One at a time: Replace plugs one at a time to avoid mixing up coils or introducing debris into open cylinder bores.

Known issues

Fortunately, the 2.3L EcoBoost in the 2022 Ford Ranger does not suffer from the same notorious spark plug issues as some earlier Ford engines, such as the problematic 2-piece spark plugs in the 3-valve 5.4L Triton engine which were prone to breaking during removal. As long as you use the correct plugs and follow the proper installation procedures, you should have a trouble-free experience for the recommended service interval.

Need plugs replaced? Find a shop on Repairius.