2016 Nissan Altima Spark Plug Type & Gap

Quick reference

Why the right plug matters

Spark plugs are a small but mighty component in your engine's ignition system. They create the spark that ignites the air-fuel mixture, allowing your engine to produce power. Using the correct spark plug type, heat range, and gap is crucial for optimal engine performance, fuel efficiency, and longevity.

Heat Range: Spark plugs are designed with a specific "heat range" that dictates how quickly they transfer heat away from the combustion chamber. A plug that's too hot can lead to pre-ignition and detonation, which can severely damage your engine. A plug that's too cold can lead to carbon buildup, misfires, and reduced fuel economy. For your 2016 Nissan Altima, the OEM plugs are carefully selected to match the operating temperatures of the QR25DE and VQ35DE engines.

Electrode Metal: Modern spark plugs utilize various electrode materials, each with its own advantages:

• Iridium: These are the most common OEM choice for modern vehicles like your Altima. Iridium is extremely hard and has a very high melting point, allowing for very fine electrodes that provide a strong, consistent spark and exceptional durability. Iridium plugs typically have a service life of 100,000 miles or more.
• Platinum: Platinum plugs offer good durability, often lasting 60,000-100,000 miles. They are a step up from copper but generally not as long-lasting as iridium.
• Copper: Copper plugs have a large electrode which provides a good spark, but copper is a soft metal and wears quickly. They are typically found in older vehicles or high-performance applications where frequent changes are acceptable. They usually last around 30,000 miles.

For your 2016 Nissan Altima, both the 2.5L and 3.5L engines are designed to use iridium spark plugs, indicated by the 'DILKAR' prefix in the NGK part numbers, which signifies a long-life iridium plug. Sticking with these iridium plugs is essential for maintaining the recommended service interval and engine performance.

How to gap a spark plug

While most modern iridium spark plugs come pre-gapped from the factory, it's always a good idea to double-check the gap before installation. Even a slight discrepancy can affect performance. For the 2016 Nissan Altima, the factory recommended gap for both engines is 0.043 inches (1.1 mm).

To check the gap, you