Iridium Spark Plugs vs Regular Spark Plugs, Here are the Differences!

Spark plugs are a car component that plays an important role in igniting the engine's ignition system. Based on their material, spark plugs are divided into 3 types: standard, platinum, and iridium spark plugs. At a glance, these three types of spark plugs look almost the same, but upon closer inspection, they have differences. So what are the differences between iridium spark plugs and other spark plugs? Here are the differences.

Advantages of Iridium Spark Plugs vs Standard Spark Plugs & Their Differences

What is the difference between iridium spark plugs and standard spark plugs? There are indeed many. Iridium spark plugs have many advantages and disadvantages compared to standard ones. Let's take a look at the differences below:

1. Different spark plug materials

The easiest difference you can recognize between the two spark plugs is the material of the spark plug. Generally, all car manufacturers use standard spark plugs (with copper material at the tip).

However, the use of standard spark plugs is considered unsatisfactory by car users during acceleration. Eventually, platinum spark plugs (with platinum electrode tips) and iridium spark plugs were developed. This is one of the advantages of iridium spark plugs compared to standard ones.

Thus, you can easily distinguish between the two spark plugs just by looking at their materials.

2. Different electrode tip shapes

The next difference can be seen from the shape of the spark plug electrode tip. In iridium spark plugs, the center part of the electrode tip is pointed.

In contrast, in platinum spark plugs, the center electrode tip is slightly pointed, and in standard spark plugs, the center electrode tip is slightly blunt and smaller in shape.

3. Different durability of each spark plug

The next difference can be seen from their durability. The advantage of iridium spark plugs can be said to have better durability than standard spark plugs.

The lifespan of iridium spark plugs can last up to a mileage of 100,000 km. Meanwhile, standard and platinum spark plugs need to be replaced every 20,000 km to 40,000 km (depending on usage).

4. Different power output

Iridium spark plugs are claimed to boost engine performance by up to 3% faster than performance using standard or platinum spark plugs.

This happens because iridium spark plugs are highly heat-resistant and can produce a more even spark without needing a large electric current. Thus, the acceleration capability of cars using iridium spark plugs is better than other spark plugs.

5. Different prices

Indeed, there are many advantages of iridium spark plugs in this car, but there are also disadvantages, namely the higher price.

The price of iridium spark plugs is considered more expensive compared to standard and platinum spark plugs. This is because the material of iridium spark plugs is said to be better than other types of spark plugs.

Iridium spark plugs can withstand heat up to 2000 degrees Celsius, while standard spark plugs can only withstand heat up to 1,085 degrees Celsius. Platinum spark plugs can withstand heat up to 1,313 degrees Celsius or 21% better than standard spark plugs.

Additionally, iridium spark plug materials are more durable and rust-resistant compared to standard spark plugs, which are prone to corrosion. Considering the many benefits obtained from iridium spark plugs, it is reasonable that iridium spark plugs are more expensive.

The market price of iridium spark plugs ranges from Rp. 100,000 to Rp. 150,000 per spark plug, while standard copper spark plugs are sold for prices starting from Rp. 15,000 to Rp. 20,000.

These are some differences between iridium spark plugs and standard car spark plugs, along with their advantages and disadvantages. After knowing the differences, do you want to switch to using iridium spark plugs or continue using standard ones?

Make sure to regularly check your car's spark plugs; do not let them get dirty or worn out, as this can cause the engine's ignition system to become unstable, waste fuel, and even cause the car engine to suddenly die. Also, don't forget to choose good and best iridium spark plugs for your car.

Make sure to also regularly take your car to the nearest Daihatsu workshop or dealer to check the overall condition of the car.