2022 Toyota Tacoma Spark Plug Type & Gap

Quick reference

Why the right plug matters

Choosing the correct spark plug for your 2022 Toyota Tacoma is crucial for optimal engine performance, fuel efficiency, and longevity. Spark plugs are available in various materials, each with its own characteristics and benefits:

• Iridium: These are the most common type for modern vehicles like your Tacoma, offering superior durability and a longer lifespan due to their extremely hard iridium tip. They provide consistent, powerful sparks for clean combustion.
• Platinum: Platinum plugs also offer extended life compared to copper, but generally not as long as iridium. They are a good upgrade from copper for some applications.
• Copper: While copper is an excellent conductor of electricity, copper spark plugs have a shorter lifespan due to the softer material. They are typically found in older vehicles or those with specific performance requirements that necessitate frequent changes.

The "heat range" of a spark plug is another vital factor. This refers to the plug's ability to dissipate heat from the combustion chamber. A plug that's too "hot" (dissipates less heat) can lead to pre-ignition and engine damage, while a plug that's too "cold" (dissipates more heat) can cause fouling and misfires. Always stick to the OEM recommended heat range.

How to gap a spark plug

Spark plug gapping is the process of adjusting the distance between the center and ground electrodes. An incorrect gap can lead to misfires, reduced fuel economy, and poor engine performance.

For your 2022 Tacoma, the recommended gap is 0.043 inches (1.1 mm). To gap a spark plug, you'll need a wire gauge tool:

1. Measure: Insert the appropriate wire from your gauge tool into the gap between the electrodes. It should slide in with a slight drag.
2. Adjust (if necessary): If the gap is too small, use the gapping tool to gently bend the ground electrode outward. If it's too large, carefully tap the ground electrode on a hard surface to close the gap. Never bend the center electrode.
3. Re-measure: Always re-measure to ensure the gap is correct before installation.

Note: Many iridium spark plugs come pre-gapped from the factory. It's always best to verify, but avoid unnecessary adjustments as the fine iridium tip can be easily damaged.

Replacement procedure tips

Replacing spark plugs on your 2022 Toyota Tacoma is a manageable DIY task for those with some mechanical experience. Here are some tips, specific to your coil-on-plug ignition system:

1. Access: Both the 2.7L I4 and 3.5L V6 engines utilize a coil-on-plug (COP) ignition system, meaning each spark plug has its own ignition coil directly mounted on top. To access the plugs, you'll need to carefully disconnect and remove these coils.
2. Cleanliness is key: Before removing the old spark plugs, use compressed air to blow away any dirt or debris from around the plug wells. This prevents contaminants from falling into the combustion chamber once the old plugs are out.
3. Coil-on-plug removal: Gently unplug the electrical connector from each coil and then unbolt the coil from the valve cover. Twist and pull the coil straight up to remove it. Avoid yanking on the wires.
4. Anti-seize debate: There's ongoing debate about using anti-seize compound on spark plug threads. Most modern spark plugs, especially those from Denso and NGK, have a special coating on the threads that prevents seizing. Applying additional anti-seize can alter the torque readings, leading to overtightening. Follow the plug manufacturer's recommendations. If you do use anti-seize, use a very small amount and reduce the specified torque by about 10-20%.
5. Dielectric grease: Apply a small amount of dielectric grease inside the spark plug boot (the part that connects to the top of the spark plug). This helps seal out moisture, prevents corrosion, and makes future removal easier. Do not get dielectric grease on the electrodes.
6. Torque properly: Always use a torque wrench to tighten the new spark plugs to the manufacturer's specified value (13 lb-ft / 18 Nm). Overtightening can damage the spark plug and cylinder head threads, while undertightening can lead to blow-outs and misfires.

Known issues

The 2022 Toyota Tacoma engines (2TR-FE and 2GR-FKS) are generally reliable, and there are no widespread, specific spark plug-related "known issues" akin to the Ford 3-valve engine's notorious two-piece plug breakage. As long as you use the correct OEM or recommended aftermarket spark plugs and adhere to the replacement intervals, you should experience trouble-free operation.

Need plugs replaced? Find a shop on Repairius.