my 03 element has 21 k miles now and should i have its spark plugs changed?
anyone has done this before?do u guys bring it to the dealer?any idea how much they charge?i am thinking of using bosch platium spark plug..

I don't have any idea, but I'm sure the manual will.

i just talked to dealer and they told me E does not need spark plugs change until 90k miles and its got the platinum spark plugs already..kidna surprise me..
nice...:D

I don't have any idea, but I'm sure the manual will.

Y'think!? Maybe he didn't order the optional manual...

Y'think!? Maybe he didn't order the optional manual...
there is a optional manual? that means it does not come with element?
i have the regular manual..where can i get the optional?

there is a optional manual? that means it does not come with element?
i have the regular manual..where can i get the optional?

He was kidding. Every new vehicle comes with an owners manual and a warranty booklet. The manual shows the service intervals.

Spark plugs actually are scheduled for replacement at 110,000 miles under the Normal as well as Severe conditions.

there is a optional manual?

It's the reading that is optional.

He was kidding. Every new vehicle comes with an owners manual and a warranty booklet. The manual shows the service intervals.

Spark plugs actually are scheduled for replacement at 110,000 miles under the Normal as well as Severe conditions.

Still a valid question...not everybody buys the E new, and some may not have inherited the manuals from the original owner.

Just remember that they are the NGK iridium, which some consider they best spark plug available. Including me:) ... On the MINI forum that was the plug to upgrade to. Discounted about $14 each. Tim

is anyone up to 110k yet? why would you replace a platinum plug before the recommended time?

and if your used E didn't come with a manual, they are available on fleabay for $20 BIN:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2005-HONDA-ELEMENT-OWNERS-OWNERS-MANUAL-05_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ34223QQitemZ80321724 03QQrdZ1QQsspagenameZWDVW

Kerri has over 100k on her E.

See this thread (http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=20097) for her approach to 100k.

biocube & dohcvtec, from my understanding it's not a platinum plug... its the next step better! :) I don't want to confuse people here. there are a lot of different platinum plugs out there, but NGK makes the only iridium, Tim

biocube & dohcvtec, from my understanding it's not a platinum plug... its the next step better! :) I don't want to confuse people here. there are a lot of different platinum plugs out there, but NGK makes the only iridium, Tim
thanks for cleariying this..and i didnt know our e has better spark plug than platinum.
thanks

there are a lot of different platinum plugs out there, but NGK makes the only iridium, Tim

I heard that Denso is also an OEM replacement too. It is also an Iridium plug.

Whatever you do, don't pay dealer prices for your plugs. Do it yourself. There's no shame in changing them early either. I got my NGK Iridiums at RockAuto.com. They're $10.49 for a 4 pack for your E.

Whatever you do, don't pay dealer prices for your plugs. Do it yourself. There's no shame in changing them early either. I got my NGK Iridiums at RockAuto.com. They're $10.49 for a 4 pack for your E.

I know, the dealer wants $24.00 for each plug. I am about to do mine my self.
Thanks for the info for a better price

Auto Zone has tnem for 2.49 $ each. That comes to 9.96, + 5% tax in Mass. or 10.45$ no shipping !

OK Guys, better do some checking... I stand by my original cost for local buying. $14 is fair, but yes, Rockauto does have them @ $10.49 ea plus $6.19 shipping for me for a total of $78.15.
They stated that they are in packs of 4.. thats how you have to buy them. But they price them as each :roll: It is still a good price. Now I will have to check Auto Zone, and if they are $2.49 ea....WE WILL ALL HAVE TO STOCK UP ON THEM!!!! Remember the plug number is izfr6k11 or ngk stock number 6994, Tim

Hey just trade in for a new Element.

Geeeeez I just go to my Money Tree in my back yard and that solves everything. :)

biocube & dohcvtec, from my understanding it's not a platinum plug... its the next step better! :) I don't want to confuse people here. there are a lot of different platinum plugs out there, but NGK makes the only iridium, Tim
So does Denso!
I just got 4 new ones. And was wondering if 4 was all that I need. The partner just said he had an old mustang 4cl, that had 8! Said it had lots of getup, and good gas mileage. But I dont think that is the real deal here...
YUP, Denso!

I changed the spark plugs with Denso IK24 at 20k....
I hate to say so but stock NGK Ir really sucks....

IMO, after replacing the plugs, I got at least 1 mpg better, and the engine runs mouch smoother.

really?! at 20k? what do you think the difference is, the quality of the plug?

If I can recall, the ignition system, is computer controlled, And Denso plugs communicate better with the ECM...
When I had the SLX, I had to replace the plugs with densos so that the CEL would go away. Believe it or not, it came from the factory with Champions..
Thats like putting on clean pants, over dirty underwear....

don't falme me cuz i haven't looked to see, but i assume that there are no wires if people aren't mentioning replacing them?

is the plug change easy, just pull the cover off and do it?

I changed the spark plugs with Denso IK24 at 20k....
I hate to say so but stock NGK Ir really sucks....

IMO, after replacing the plugs, I got at least 1 mpg better, and the engine runs mouch smoother.

I call BS on this 1mpg improvement and smoother running engine. In general a spark plug is a spark plug as far as igniting goes. The iridium will last a lot longer, but won't perform any better than a standard plug.

Maybe you've subconsciously convinced yourself of the improvements to justify wasting good money replacing plugs at 20K?

I hate to be bitchy. but If you never try it, don't say it is BS. Have you ever put Denso Ir on your element? Yes or no? If no, stop BS and shut up. I've used Denso Ir on my other Honda and my friends' cars. We all think that Denso Ir is way better than NGK ir. Believe or not, it's up to you. but don't call BS.

With NGK Ir at 20k, I got average 19-20 mpg. Under the same driving condition (from home to work)with Denso Ir, I get at least 21.5 to 22mpg. I think it is significant enough to justify "my opinion".


There're good deals on Ebay. Mostly you can get 4 of IK24 for $40. And it only takes 10 to 15 mins to replace them by yourself.

I hate to be bitchy. but If you never try it, don't say it is BS. Have you ever put Denso Ir on your element? Yes or no? If no, stop BS and shut up. I've used Denso Ir on my other Honda and my friends' cars. We all think that Denso Ir is way better than NGK ir. Believe or not, it's up to you. but don't call BS.

With NGK Ir at 20k, I got average 19-20 mpg. Under the same driving condition (from home to work)with Denso Ir, I get at least 21.5 to 22mpg. I think it is significant enough to justify "my opinion".


There're good deals on Ebay. Mostly you can get 4 of IK24 for $40. And it only takes 10 to 15 mins to replace them by yourself.

Here's from Denso's website:

Q. What kind of performance will I get from this plug?
A. Generally, you do not purchase spark plugs for performance enhancement. While DENSO Iridium Power spark plugs have contributed to numerous accomplishments through dyno-testing and actual use, their true benefit lies in their efficiency, durability, and improved firing power. Serious tuners modify their vehicles by increasing boost through turbo-chargers, super-chargers, and Nitrous. They are also known to add high-energy ignition systems, tinker with timing, adjust fuel mixture ratios, and increase horsepower through other means. Putting these kinds of demands on their engine increases the need for an efficient, durable spark plug that can handle these kind of harsh environments. That’s where DENSO Iridium Power can make a major difference.

Doesn't sound like my Element will benefit over the existing NGK Ir. Your calling the NGK junk, I can't find any tests that back your opinion. If the NGKs were junk, Denso would perform and trumpet such a test to the world and NGK would likely be out of business. They don't because it just isn't so.

Modern electronic ignition systems are extremely powerful and reliable the sparkplug just isn't that important, Iridium is about longevity.

You're in California right? You'd never have passed an emissions check if indeed you were wasting so much fuel with the NGKs. I don't need to try the Densos to know there's no gain to be made between Denso and NGK Iridium spark plugs.

IMO your BSing yourself.

I guess you misunderstood me on the interval of changing the spark plugs. I did my change at 20k, and it does not mean I will change it at every 20k. Usuallly, I change Spark plugs every 60k. I changed to Denso early because I believe Denso performance better. Don't efficiency, durability, and improved firing power provide something in return in the long run?

I am not a denso sales person and I do not make money by posting this. I am just telling my experence, and this is what we have the forum.

It's you call. You never try, you never know. Keep you theory. I will keep mine.

I guess you misunderstood me on the interval of changing the spark plugs. I did my change at 20k, and it does not mean I will change it at every 20k. Usuallly, I change Spark plugs every 60k. I changed to Denso early because I believe Denso performance better. Don't efficiency, durability, and improved firing power provide something in return in the long run?

I am not a denso sales person and I do not make money by posting this. I am just telling my experence, and this is what we have the forum.

It's you call. You never try, you never know. Keep you theory. I will keep mine.

I didn't misunderstand your interval, just think trashing the NGKs at 20K was a waste.

Efficiency, Durability and improved fire power do mean something, but only compared to something that is not efficient, durable or without fire power, but the NGKs have all that too.

For anyone interested here's a site that investigates fuel saving gadgets and it includes a page on ignition enhancers. The author is an Engineer that's work for Rover and BMW and Bosch working on advance fuel systems focusing on fuel-economy. Here's his take on ignition.

http://www.fuelsaving.info/index.htm

Ignition enhancers (petrol only)

Petrol engines rely entirely on the spark to ignite the fuel/air mixture and provide power to drive the vehicle. If this spark is unreliable - for example, if it is too weak to always jump the plug gap - then the engine will misfire. This misfire represents fuel simply passed down the exhaust pipe unburnt.

So far, so good. In the "bad old days" of contact-breaker ignition, devices to improve ignition energy could improve spark reliability, especially under cold or damp conditions. You could see real improvements in fuel consumption and / or power. But modern electronic ignition systems are extremely powerful anyway and provide at least 99% ignition reliability. If they didn't, the emissions of unburnt fuel would far exceed the amounts allowed by emission legislation. Adding more ignition energy might perhaps provide an absolutely immeasurable improvement in fuel consumption, but at the expense of increased spark plug wear.

Fundamentally, once the mixture is lit, it's lit. A fire doesn't burn hotter because you use a bigger match to light it; a bigger spark won't make the fuel/air mixture burn any hotter either. I have carried out many engine experiments involving changing ignition energy, and while there are some marginal benefits in extreme conditions (cold, damp, etc), the overall effect on power and fuel consumption on any modern engine is negligible.

I guess you misunderstood me on the interval of changing the spark plugs. I did my change at 20k, and it does not mean I will change it at every 20k. Usuallly, I change Spark plugs every 60k. I changed to Denso early because I believe Denso performance better. Don't efficiency, durability, and improved firing power provide something in return in the long run?

I am not a denso sales person and I do not make money by posting this. I am just telling my experence, and this is what we have the forum.

It's you call. You never try, you never know. Keep you theory. I will keep mine.


I purchased a used 2003 Element with 20 k on the clock.....

first thing I did was a oil change and transmission service.....

then tire rotation and ballancing.....

I am going to replace the air filter set up and change the spark plugs regardless of the service intervals....in my many years of auto experience
you can pass Ca smog and still have non optimal spark plugs....

After my oil change I could tell a huge difference in the way the car sounded
at startup and idle....

I am sure that I will see a differnece after my spark plug change....if I get two mpg improvement in gas millage that would be great with the prices of gas these days....i

I just need to know where I stand regarding this used E. I dont see any bashing going on here...just information passed regarding a postive change....

Change is good......

Sometimes you have to think outside the Box.......

I just did a search of Denso Spark plugs and came up with a different product number listed for the Element

It is IK20 if you are looking for Denso Iridium plugs for the Element ....

....in my many years of auto experience
you can pass Ca smog and still have non optimal spark plugs....

I am sure that I will see a differnece after my spark plug change....if I get two mpg improvement in gas millage that would be great with the prices of gas these days....

So if you get a 2 mpg increase say from 21 to 23 that means your old spark plugs were not firing 10% of the time, or how will this increase come about? No new vehicle that is dumping 10% unburnt fuel out the exhaust will pass CA smog, the black smoke would be obvious.

I'll pay for the postage if you would send me your tired NGKs, I can get another 90,000 out of them.

I just need to know where I stand regarding this used E. I dont see any bashing going on here...just information passed regarding a postive change....

Change is good......

Sometimes you have to think outside the Box.......

Maybe you missed this.


I hate to say so but stock NGK Ir really sucks....

I'm sure the spark plug companies love people that change iridiums after 20k. If you go with such a short interval, just use any 99 cent plugs.

Sometimes old dogs need to learn new tricks.....

So if you get a 2 mpg increase say from 21 to 23 that means your old spark plugs were not firing 10% of the time, or how will this increase come about? No new vehicle that is dumping 10% unburnt fuel out the exhaust will pass CA smog, the black smoke would be obvious.

it does not mean they were not firing 10% of the time.....you dont have to
have black smoke coming out of your car to have a decrease in performance.
under inflated tires can do that as well...

I'll pay for the postage if you would send me your tired NGKs, I can get another 90,000 out of them.

Deal.......as soon as I take them out and put a new set in....only if you are willing to do an honest assessment fo your mileage with my old set....and you are not just blowing your own smoke....



Maybe you missed this.





I'm sure the spark plug companies love people that change iridiums after 20k. If you go with such a short interval, just use any 99 cent plugs.

sometimes spark plugs dont make it to their required change period. not gapped correctly...over tightened and then cracked...I have seen alot of damaged spark plugs...

Sometimes old dogs need to learn new tricks.....

again..poor mileage from my used E..switching spark plugs as part of a multiple process to improve mileage.

I dont dislike NGk spark plugs...I replace them every year when I tune up my 85 RX7....that engine is so hot running that they burn out fast....as soon as i see a performance and mileage decrease out they come.

I dont consider myself old..just a little higher up on the food chain.

it does not mean they were not firing 10% of the time.....you dont have to
have black smoke coming out of your car to have a decrease in performance.
under inflated tires can do that as well...

You said spark plugs could improve your fuel efficiency by 2 mpg, unless you are including the oil change, tranny service, tire rotation, wheel balance along with the spark plugs in this 2mpg improvement. Unless something was way out of wack none of these items will have anything like a 2 mpg effect. Did you see any improvenment from the other items? I'm not sure why you bring up tire inflation, I though we were talking spark plugs.

Deal.......as soon as I take them out and put a new set in....only if you are willing to do an honest assessment fo your mileage with my old set....and you are not just blowing your own smoke....

My E has 20.4K on it by coincidence, and my fuel economy hasn't dropped off. It would seem I need to buy some new Densos to know for sure, but I don't think it's worth the expense to find out. I am interested in your plugs, and will swap them out at 30K, I was planning on checking my gap and seeing how they look then anyway.

sometimes spark plugs dont make it to their required change period. not gapped correctly...over tightened and then cracked...I have seen alot of damaged spark plugs...

I don't disagree, but that results in obvious missing and terrible performance and nearly undrivable conditions on a 4 cylinder, that's not what I'm talking about. Iridiums have very little wear relative to standard plugs and are gapped from the factory, no need to check gap frequently. I'd know if mine cracked pretty quick.


again..poor mileage from my used E..switching spark plugs as part of a multiple process to improve mileage.

I dont dislike NGk spark plugs...I replace them every year when I tune up my 85 RX7....that engine is so hot running that they burn out fast....as soon as i see a performance and mileage decrease out they come.

I dont consider myself old..just a little higher up on the food chain.

Just curious, are you using NGK iridium in the RX7, and is that carburated or FI. Carbs can definitely be tough on plugs, my carbed 88 Dodge Ram-50 overheated, ran rich and ate plugs. I've heard early FI RX7s weren't so good, with lots of flooding issues. We don't have these issues with the Element.

You said spark plugs could improve your fuel efficiency by 2 mpg, unless you are including the oil change, tranny service, tire rotation, wheel balance along with the spark plugs in this 2mpg improvement. Unless something was way out of wack none of these items will have anything like a 2 mpg effect. Did you see any improvenment from the other items? I'm not sure why you bring up tire inflation, I though we were talking spark plugs.

we are getting away from the posters thread....but here goes....

A poster staited that he got a mileage increase..I agreed that a change in spark plugs could have a postive effect on mileage

prior to this point I have checked my mileage against each maintenence step I performed.

1st did the oil change and tranny service..no change

2nd tire rotation and ballance....and alignment......no change...

3rd will be a intake change air filter

4th will be spark plugs.. when I change out my valve cover....no problems with it changing it out for the european version.

My E has 20.4K on it by coincidence, and my fuel economy hasn't dropped off. It would seem I need to buy some new Densos to know for sure, but I don't think it's worth the expense to find out. I am interested in your plugs, and will swap them out at 30K, I was planning on checking my gap and seeing how they look then anyway.

My milleage is in the high teens....thus the change is needed. again my E was purchased used.....dont know the complete driving history of the car....mostly city. so for my own piece of mind I am switching plugs so I have a fresh born on date...


I don't disagree, but that results in obvious missing and terrible performance and nearly undrivable conditions on a 4 cylinder, that's not what I'm talking about. Iridiums have very little wear relative to standard plugs and are gapped from the factory, no need to check gap frequently. I'd know if mine cracked pretty quick


I dont think I have a huge problem....when the valve cover comes off the spark plugs will be changed....I will save them and contact you and you may have the plugs. Aagin...the E is not that powerful.....in regards to my other toy...so I have to check out those spark plugs....

I plan on putting in Denso Iridium IK20 and will report back regarding mileage and performance...if it helped..


Just curious, are you using NGK iridium in the RX7, and is that carburated or FI. Carbs can definitely be tough on plugs, my carbed 88 Dodge Ram-50 overheated, ran rich and ate plugs. I've heard early FI RX7s weren't so good, with lots of flooding issues. We don't have these issues with the Element.



I have an 1985 RX7 GSL-SE its a 13b and FI.

I use NGK BR9EQ-14's

Rotary engines are interesting engines..when adjusted just right they are unreal. The wrong spark plugs on my stock engine....could result in detonation and preignition problems...

wrong size size can lead to apex seal contact which could and will lead to fatal seal damage...its all ablout maintaining the seal.....apex that is...

the exhaust and intake are aftermarket....I can keep up with alot of cars out there...and when I hit the corners ba bye.....glue...with help of Koni adjustables and Eibach springs and some sticky Yokohamas...

here is a link to my toy.....

http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/stoneypeak/album?.dir=629b&.src=ph&store=&prodid=&.done=http%3a//photos.yahoo.com/ph//my_photos

Back to the E......just want to get my numbers up in the twenties....the car is driven....easy....

later

My milleage is in the high teens....thus the change is needed. again my E was purchased used.....dont know the complete driving history of the car....mostly city. so for my own piece of mind I am switching plugs so I have a fresh born on date...

I dont think I have a huge problem....when the valve cover comes off the spark plugs will be changed....I will save them and contact you and you may have the plugs. Aagin...the E is not that powerful.....in regards to my other toy...so I have to check out those spark plugs....

I plan on putting in Denso Iridium IK20 and will report back regarding mileage and performance...if it helped...

here is a link to my toy.....

http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/stoneypeak/album?.dir=629b&.src=ph&store=&prodid=&.done=http%3a//photos.yahoo.com/ph//my_photos

Back to the E......just want to get my numbers up in the twenties....the car is driven....easy....

later

Fair enough, I'm interested to know how the Densos perform.

Damn clean RX7, has that been restored or just well maintained.

Here's my only automotive toy.

http://hometown.aol.com/worthywads/myhomepage/chally21.jpg

70 Challenger Convertible

Over 14 years I've redone the interior, bright work, added front disc, polyurethane all around, front and rear anti-sways, rebuilt auto tranny.

Complete the engine 2 years ago, magnum 360 20 over, 10.3:1 compression, Magnum R/T heads with mild porting, hydraulic roller cam, edelbrock air gap intake, holley 670, step headers, magnaflow mufflers, NGK 2262 :)

Plans for swap to 5-speed manual as money permits.

Peace

Last week, I just changed out my spark plugs at 92k, with the same OEM ones. The gap was still fine on them, also they were still beige in color. I did notice a difference in performance right away, the engine excellerated more smoothly and seems to idle better, as far as gas milage, not sure yet. I picked up the NGK Iridium's for $11.00 a piece, someone at work got them for me at discount.

[QUOTE=jimtesla]
I have an 1985 RX7 GSL-SE its a 13b and FI.

I use NGK BR9EQ-14's

Rotary engines are interesting engines..when adjusted just right they are unreal. The wrong spark plugs on my stock engine....could result in detonation and preignition problems...

wrong size size can lead to apex seal contact which could and will lead to fatal seal damage...its all ablout maintaining the seal.....apex that is...

the exhaust and intake are aftermarket....I can keep up with alot of cars out there...and when I hit the corners ba bye.....glue...with help of Koni adjustables and Eibach springs and some sticky Yokohamas...

[QUOTE]
I work in the aftermarket auto parts business, and from all that I have been told by my suppliers(too many to list) that Iridium plugs in anything older than about '92 is pointless. The ignition system is not manufactured to handle the technology these plugs provide. I'm not an expert on rotary engines so I'm not sure of your specific case, but has it been rebuilt or is this still original?
Plus has the ignition system been upgraded to a performance style or is it original as well?(meaning has it been maintained but not replaced). These were explained to me by countless manufacturer reps. Not only plug reps but ignition ones as well. Just curious I'm trying to wrap my head around this discussion.

Someone that I work with has a 93 3rd gen 7 and the thing is fast as hell. He took me for a ride in it and let me tell you, I nearly **** my pants lol.

FYI. Keep in mind, if you change spark plugs...you might as well put on new plug wires as well. The majority of OEM spark plug wires will break when removed, although it will be internal and you will be unable to detect it unless you have the proper electronic equipment. Just my $.02 :cool:

FYI. Keep in mind, if you change spark plugs...you might as well put on new plug wires as well. The majority of OEM spark plug wires will break when removed, although it will be internal and you will be unable to detect it unless you have the proper electronic equipment. Just my $.02 :cool:

The Element does not have sparkplug wires, there are individual coil packs for each plug. Nice to not worry about wires and distributor caps anymore.

Even so, when you break that initial contact made at the factory, problems could arise. Current models of industrial engines use the same type of technology as the Honda. Remember, you are putting a new part, with a used part that has fired hundreds of thousands of times over a period of several years. I wouldn't settle for just changing plugs. Of course, that's just me. :cool:

Even so, when you break that initial contact made at the factory, problems could arise. Current models of industrial engines use the same type of technology as the Honda. Remember, you are putting a new part, with a used part that has fired hundreds of thousands of times over a period of several years. I wouldn't settle for just changing plugs. Of course, that's just me. :cool:

Changing the whole ignition coil for each plug, they are $35.00 each, why?


http://www.hondaautomotiveparts.com/auto/jsp/mws/prddisplay.jsp?inputstate=5&catcgry1=Element&catcgry2=2003&catcgry3=5DR+EX+4WD&catcgry4=KA4AT&catcgry5=IGNITION+COIL

Changing the whole ignition coil for each plug, they are $35.00 each, why?


http://www.hondaautomotiveparts.com/auto/jsp/mws/prddisplay.jsp?inputstate=5&catcgry1=Element&catcgry2=2003&catcgry3=5DR+EX+4WD&catcgry4=KA4AT&catcgry5=IGNITION+COIL Coils are just mini-transformers. No moving parts. Just wire windings and a core.They can burn out, but you would know that in a heartbeat. Same as a dead plug. I have replaced a couple of coils that failed on older cars with electronic and points ignition. They can be effected by extreme heat, but again you would know that before the temp got that high. The primary and secondary voltage will remain constant unless the coil fails. The odds against failure are astronomical. The resistance value of the wire itself can be checked with a quality digital multimeter. If that is in spec and the connection is tight, arbitrarily replacing a coil with the plug is a waste of money. The resistance value of the plug itself can change with use, but seldom burn out. You should get 50K out of an iridium plug.

As you say. First hand experience has shown me otherwise. 35 bucks is a cheap price to pay for piece of mind. Hey, after all, it's my money. Stay cool. :cool:

As you say. First hand experience has shown me otherwise. 35 bucks is a cheap price to pay for piece of mind. Hey, after all, it's my money. Stay cool. :cool: So your telling us that you have had to replace ignition coils on a regular basis? The coil packs are the same thing as the ignition coil on a distributor ignition system. The difference is the timing advance is done by the emc rather than a distributor. The local dealer says they have never replaced a coil pack. Just seems strange.

I never said I had previously replaced a coil pack on a Element, or Honda for that matter. I made reference to the same technology is used in industrial engines, which I have years of experience in. I have seen failures of this type. I also made reference to the fact that I would spend the extra bucks to replace a coil pack. I never referenced specific failures of Honda coil packs, which I admit I have no knowledge of. Again I referenced the technology.

In addition, precious metal spark plugs are only as good as the other necessary components of combustion, along with proper maintenance. Even with platinum or iridium plugs, any variation from ideal of the fuel, air, spark, etc. will effect the performance life.

I was trying to suggest that following service guidelines should be tempered with common sense, and not blindly follow suggested intervals or product claims. That's simply my opinion, and not an attempt to get in a pissing match with anyone. If you disagree, that's cool.

I never said I had previously replaced a coil pack on a Element, or Honda for that matter. I made reference to the same technology is used in industrial engines, which I have years of experience in. I have seen failures of this type. I also made reference to the fact that I would spend the extra bucks to replace a coil pack. I never referenced specific failures of Honda coil packs, which I admit I have no knowledge of. Again I referenced the technology.

In addition, precious metal spark plugs are only as good as the other necessary components of combustion, along with proper maintenance. Even with platinum or iridium plugs, any variation from ideal of the fuel, air, spark, etc. will effect the performance life.

I was trying to suggest that following service guidelines should be tempered with common sense, and not blindly follow suggested intervals or product claims. That's simply my opinion, and not an attempt to get in a pissing match with anyone. If you disagree, that's cool. No pissing contest from me uncle buck. Just trying to put the whole picture into focus. :cool:

No pissing contest from me uncle buck. Just trying to put the whole picture into focus. :cool:

This put's it in focus for me.

http://www.hondaautomotiveparts.com/auto/jsp/mws/prddisplay.jsp?inputstate=5&catcgry1=Element&catcgry2=2005&catcgry3=5DR+EX+4WD+SIDE+SRS&catcgry4=KA4AT&catcgry5=IGNITION+COIL

The 2005 coils are even more expensive at $62.66 each. So along with the iridium plugs at $12.61 each, uncle buck is saying he's prepared to spend $301.08 on a spark plug change for piece of mind.

Just curious uncle buck, what mileage interval are you planning on?

Auto Zone has tnem for 2.49 $ each. That comes to 9.96, + 5% tax in Mass. or 10.45$ no shipping !


sorry buddy, you must be quoting the wrong plug. The plus you need are Iridium laser plugs by NGK. They are at least $10 each....I just bough them for a total of $54 at Baxter autoparts.

I'm not familiar with the new wireless ignition systems. Do you just pull off the cover and what will I find once the cover is off? Any special tools required to remove the coil's in order to get to the plugs?

Nope. Easy peazy. Same 10mm socket you used to get the cover off, and they just pull off the end of the plug. Don't even need to disconnect from the harness, just lay them over on the valve cover and they'll be out of the way so you can wrench on the plugs.

Thanks Mike, appreciate the quick response.

My toaster is approaching 100,000 miles. I am still very happy with starting, acceleration , and gas milage. Can actually detect no real difference from day one to justify changing original plugs. Adjusting throttle cable made a noticable difference about 30,000 miles ago.
Replaced sinuous belt at 80,000 for peace of mind only. Belt was still in excellent shape. All other fluid and filter changes as per good advice of this forum and owner's manual. Love my toaster!!!!!!!!:-)

My toaster is approaching 100,000 miles. I am still very happy with starting, acceleration , and gas milage. Can actually detect no real difference from day one to justify changing original plugs. Adjusting throttle cable made a noticable difference about 30,000 miles ago.
Replaced sinuous belt at 80,000 for peace of mind only. Belt was still in excellent shape. All other fluid and filter changes as per good advice of this forum and owner's manual. Love my toaster!!!!!!!!:-)

At 100k I would chage the plugs but thats just me. I bet you'll notice a difference once you change them.

At 100k I would chage the plugs but thats just me. I bet you'll notice a difference once you change them.
FWIW, I changed mine at 99,980 and noticed not a lick of difference, either performance or MPG. Old ones didn't look all that terrible. The insulators were tan to dark tan, and there was some cathode erosion, but nothing alarming. I'll bet they would have been good for another 30-40K, easily.

Just curious to know if the DENSO IRIDIUM IK20 Plugs will work for '03 Elements? I am looking to all the maintenance at once so I am looking for parts followed but a cheap mechanic :grin:. Thanks in advance.

Some details
2003 Element EX 120,000KM with no service history that I can get a hold of. So just to be safe going to do Cabin filter, Differential, Tranny, Oil and Sparks. Any more recommendations are welcome.

I show Denso Iridium part #SKJ20DR-M11. But since you have had success with the stock plug (NGK IZFR6K-11), why do you want to switch brands on a part that works for such a long time?

I am located in Canada and everything seems to be ridiculously priced for OEM parts :x...cheaper to go non OEM sometimes or just across the border to pick some parts.

ridiculously priced for OEM parts
Pricing from a Honda dealer, or a parts store?

I am located in Canada and everything seems to be ridiculously priced for OEM parts :x...cheaper to go non OEM sometimes or just across the border to pick some parts.


Unfortunately prices on OEM parts in Canada are on the high side compared to the US. I live this reality every day. The high prices on vehicles,parts and accessories is a byproduct of Honda Canada operating in a market less than 10% the size of the US market.

Amazing that the price for NGK Iridiums is either the same, or a bit less, at Rock Auto today, 3/8/1. Price is $10.04 each. (I think the OP intended to say "each" too)

I have also noticed that Amazon has Element quality parts, but I like the folks at RockAuto

Whatever you do, don't pay dealer prices for your plugs. Do it yourself. There's no shame in changing them early either. I got my NGK Iridiums at RockAuto.com. They're $10.49 for a 4 pack for your E.

I say be kind. Someone asked a question. If one of us knows the answer, why not give it. Takes more time to bicker over whos right. For some reason the person did not look into the manual. Yes, they should have, but last I heard we all are human and can make an error in judgment.

Beledi, you are reacting to posts from 2006.

RockAuto has them for $9.81 today.