2016 Tesla Model S Spark Plug Type, Gap & Torque Spec Guide

As an ASE-certified master technician, I hear a lot of interesting questions in the shop. But when someone asks about the spark plug specifications, gap, and torque settings for a 2016 Tesla Model S, I usually have to hold back a smile.

If you are frantically searching for the spark plug part numbers for your 2016 Tesla Model S, you can take a deep breath and put your socket set away. The Tesla Model S is a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV). It does not have an internal combustion engine (ICE), which means it does not have spark plugs, ignition coils, or a distributor.

However, since you might be transitioning from a gas-powered vehicle, or perhaps you own an ICE vehicle alongside your Tesla, let's walk through standard spark plug knowledge and what maintenance your Model S actually needs.

Quick reference

For the sake of thoroughness (and to settle any bets you might have with a prankster mechanic), here is the spark plug data for the 2016 Tesla Model S lineup:

Note: Since the Tesla Model S uses 3-phase AC induction or permanent magnet electric motors, there is no air-fuel mixture to ignite. Therefore, spark plugs do not exist on this vehicle.

Why the right plug matters

For your Tesla, the only "plug" that matters is your charging connector (like the Tesla NACS or a J1772 adapter). But for your gas-powered vehicles, choosing the right spark plug is critical.

Spark plugs come in different heat ranges and electrode materials. Copper plugs are excellent conductors but wear out rapidly (usually around 30,000 miles). Platinum plugs offer better longevity, while Iridium plugs are the gold standard for modern engines, often lasting 100,000 miles or more. The heat range dictates how well the plug transfers heat away from the firing tip into the cylinder head. Using the wrong heat range can lead to carbon fouling (if too cold) or pre-ignition and engine damage (if too hot).

How to gap a spark plug

While you won't be gapping plugs on a Model S, if you're tuning up your gas-powered daily driver, proper gapping is essential.

1. Use the right tool: A wire-type feeler gauge is far more accurate than a cheap coin-style gauge.
2. Measure: Slide the gauge between the center and ground electrode. It should pass through with a slight "drag."
3. Adjust carefully: Never pry against the fragile center electrode (especially on iridium plugs, as the tip will snap off). Use the bending tool on your gauge to lightly bend the ground strap up or down until the desired gap in inches or millimeters is achieved.

Replacement procedure tips

Instead of pulling coil-on-plug boots or debating the use of anti-seize on spark plug threads (which NGK strictly advises against for their metal-plated plugs, by the way), your 2016 Tesla Model S requires a different set of maintenance procedures:

• Cabin Air Filter: Replace every 2 years to keep the HVAC system smelling fresh.
• Brake Fluid: Test for moisture every 2 years. Since EVs use regenerative braking, the friction brakes are used less often, making fluid flushes and slide-pin lubrication critical to prevent seized calipers.
• Battery Coolant: While early Teslas had specific coolant flush intervals, modern recommendations usually involve checking the level and maintaining the thermal management system as needed.
• Tires: EVs are heavy and produce instant torque. Expect to rotate your tires every 6,250 miles or when the tread depth difference is 2/32" or greater.

If you were working on a gas engine, standard tips apply: always use a dab of dielectric grease on the inside of the spark plug boot to prevent voltage leaks and sticking, and always thread the new plugs in by hand to avoid cross-threading the aluminum cylinder head.

Known issues

Because the Tesla has no spark plugs, you are completely immune to some of the most notorious ignition nightmares in the automotive world. You will never have to deal with the dreaded Ford 3-valve 5.4L two-piece spark plugs breaking off inside the cylinder head. You also won't suffer from the GM 5.3L ionization-sensing coil misfires or cracked porcelain issues that plague aging ICE platforms.

On a 2016 Tesla Model S, your "known issues" are entirely different. Owners commonly report failures of the motorized pop-out door handles, center MCU (Media Control Unit) screen delamination or eMMC memory chip failure, and premature wear on suspension control arms due to the vehicle's immense weight.

Need plugs replaced on your gas car, or require specialized EV service for your Tesla? Find a shop on Repairius.