2020 Tesla Model Y — Spark Plug Type & Gap

Quick reference

Why the right plug matters

It's important to understand that the 2020 Tesla Model Y is an all-electric vehicle. This means it does not have an internal combustion engine and therefore does not use spark plugs.

Traditional spark plugs are essential components in gasoline engines, responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture to create the power needed to move the vehicle. They are designed with specific heat ranges, electrode materials (copper, platinum, or iridium), and precise gaps, all tailored to the engine's requirements for optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions control. Using the wrong spark plug or an incorrectly gapped plug in a gasoline engine can lead to misfires, reduced power, poor fuel economy, and potential engine damage.

However, in an electric vehicle like the Tesla Model Y, propulsion is achieved through electric motors powered by a battery pack. There is no combustion process, and thus, no need for spark plugs.

How to gap a spark plug

As the 2020 Tesla Model Y is an electric vehicle and does not use spark plugs, this section is not applicable.

In a conventional gasoline engine, gapping a spark plug involves using a specific gauge tool to ensure the precise distance between the center and ground electrodes. This gap is critical for a strong, consistent spark. If the gap is too small, the spark may be weak; if it's too large, it might not fire at all. For those working on gasoline-powered vehicles, the process typically involves carefully bending the ground electrode with a gapping tool to achieve the manufacturer's specified clearance, then rechecking with the gauge.

Replacement procedure tips

Since the 2020 Tesla Model Y is an electric vehicle, there is no spark plug replacement procedure. This section typically pertains to internal combustion engines.

For vehicles that do require spark plug replacement, common tips include:

• Coil-on-plug removal: Many modern engines use coil-on-plug ignition systems, where an individual ignition coil sits directly on top of each spark plug. Carefully disconnect the electrical connector and unbolt the coil (if applicable) before gently pulling it straight up to avoid damaging it.
• Anti-seize debate: There's ongoing discussion about whether to use anti-seize compound on spark plug threads. Some plug manufacturers advise against it with nickel-plated shells, as it can alter torque readings. Always consult the spark plug manufacturer's recommendations.
• Dielectric grease on boots: Applying a small amount of dielectric grease inside the spark plug boot (the part that connects to the top of the spark plug) can aid in future removal and help prevent moisture intrusion, ensuring a good electrical connection.
• Engine cold: Always perform spark plug replacement on a cold engine to prevent stripping threads in aluminum cylinder heads.

Known issues

There are no "spark plug related" known issues for the 2020 Tesla Model Y, as it is an all-electric vehicle and does not utilize spark plugs.

For gasoline engines, "known issues" can include specific problems like the notorious two-piece spark plugs in some Ford 3-valve engines, which were prone to breaking during removal. Other engines might have issues with fouled plugs due to oil consumption or specific ignition system problems that mimic spark plug failure.

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