Best Spark Plugs For 2017 F150 3.5 Ecoboost

When I first bought my 2017 F-150 with the 3.5L Ecoboost, I was blown away by the power, but I quickly learned that this high-output, twin-turbo V6 demands serious maintenance, especially regarding its ignition system. If you’re experiencing rough idle, sluggish acceleration, or those dreaded high-load misfires, it’s definitely time to look at replacement options. We’ve tested and compared some of the most popular choices available to help you find the best spark plugs for your 2017 F150 3.5 Ecoboost to restore that factory-fresh performance and keep your truck running strong.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Ford Racing (M-12405-35T) 10-17 Flex 3.5L EcoBoost Cold…	View on Amazon
	6 pc NGK Iridium IX Spark Plugs compatible with Ford…	View on Amazon
	Ignition Coils UF646 and Iridium Spark Plug SP534…	View on Amazon
	AULINK Set of 6 UF646 Ignition Coil Pack & SP534…	View on Amazon
	Yoshi Motors DG549 UF646 Ignition Coil Packs & NGK…	View on Amazon
	Ignition Coil Pack Spark Plugs Replacement for 3.5 V6…	View on Amazon
	Set of 6 Ignition Coil Pack Iridium Spark Plug 3.5…	View on Amazon

Ford Racing (M-12405-35T) 10-17 Flex 3.5L EcoBoost Cold Spark Plug Set

If you’re running any level of tune on your 2017 F-150, or you just tow heavily, these Ford Racing cold plugs should be high on your list. These are engineered specifically for the highly boosted Ecoboost platform. By using a slightly colder heat range than stock, these plugs do a fantastic job of dissipating heat away from the tip, preventing pre-ignition under heavy throttle. They are essential for protecting the engine when pushing more horsepower through the turbos.

Key features that stand out:
– Colder Heat Range: Designed to handle higher cylinder temperatures common in modified or hard-working Ecoboost engines.
– OEM Quality Baseline: Though a performance part, they carry the Ford quality standard, ensuring reliable fitment.
– Direct Replacement: Engineered to fit the 3.5L EcoBoost engine from 2010 through 2017 models.

Pros:
– Essential upgrade for tuned or aggressively driven trucks.
– Excellent resistance to pre-ignition and high-speed misfires.
– Ford certified quality.

Cons:
– Might require careful gapping out of the box for optimal performance.

Best for: Modified or heavily tuned 3.5L Ecoboost F150s.

Expert Opinion: These plugs are widely regarded in the tuning community as the mandatory first step when moving beyond stock boost levels. We recommend gapping these to 0.028″ to 0.030″ for best results on a tuned truck.

6 pc NGK Iridium IX Spark Plugs compatible with Ford F-150 3.5L V6 2011-2019

NGK is one of the most respected names in ignition, and their Iridium IX line provides a proven blend of performance and longevity. These plugs use a fine iridium tip, which delivers a concentrated, consistent spark, improving combustion efficiency. This translates directly to better throttle response and more consistent power delivery, which is exactly what the F-150 needs. If you want a top-tier plug replacement without going to a racing setup, these are a reliable choice.

Key features that stand out:
– Iridium Construction: Provides exceptional durability and slow wear rate for extended change intervals.
– Improved Ignitability: The fine wire center electrode minimizes voltage requirements for better cold starts.
– Genuine NGK Parts: Assures you’re receiving high-quality components designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications.

Pros:
– Excellent lifespan and durability.
– Consistent spark and improved idle quality.
– Trusted OEM supplier quality.

Cons:
– Not as cold-rated as the specialized Ford Racing plug.

Best for: Daily drivers seeking long change intervals and reliable stock performance.

Expert Opinion: NGK Iridium IX plugs are the gold standard for many vehicles. They handle the stock boost levels of the 2017 F-150 flawlessly and are often easier to find locally than the specific Ford performance plugs.

Ignition Coils UF646 and Iridium Spark Plug SP534 Replacement for 3.5L V6 Turbo 2011-2017 with Ford F150 Ecoboost Expedition Explorer Flex Taurus Transit, withLincoln MKS MKT Navigator – Set of 6

This complete kit offers phenomenal value by pairing six new UF646 ignition coils with six SP534 Iridium spark plugs. On a high-mileage 2017 F-150, coils often start to fail around the same time as the plugs wear out, leading to intermittent misfires under load. By replacing both components simultaneously, you guarantee the entire ignition system is fresh. The components are designed to meet OE specifications, promising reliability and effective misfire prevention.

Key features that stand out:
– Comprehensive Kit: Includes both UF646 Coil Packs and SP534 Iridium Plugs, offering a total ignition system refresh.
– Premium Build Materials: Coils are constructed with silicon steel and Japan-imported epoxy resin for enhanced durability against heat and cracking.
– OE-Level Durability: Claimed to work great for more than 15,000 miles, designed to handle the turbo V6 demands.

Pros:
– Solves both coil and plug issues in one go.
– Excellent value proposition for a complete tune-up.
– Designed specifically for the 3.5L V6 Turbo Ecoboost platform.

Cons:
– Non-OEM coils can sometimes have slightly shorter lifespans than factory originals.

Best for: Trucks over 70,000 miles experiencing misfires or hesitation.

Expert Opinion: If you are tackling this job yourself, replacing the coils while the plugs are out just makes sense. This kit provides the exact reference numbers (UF646 and SP534) that are compatible with the 2017 F-150, making fitment worry-free.

AULINK Set of 6 UF646 Ignition Coil Pack & SP534 Spark Plug (3.5L V6 Only) For Ford F150 EcoBoost Flex Taurus Explorer Lincoln MKS MKT 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

The AULINK set is another strong contender in the coil and plug combo market, focusing heavily on matching OEM specs for seamless installation. They specifically highlight their quality control, mentioning manufacturing in TS16949 certified facilities, which is a significant mark of quality in the automotive world. For the budget-conscious buyer who still needs dependable performance, this kit offers peace of mind with a solid warranty and confirmed fitment for the 2017 F150 3.5 Ecoboost.

Key features that stand out:
– TS16949 Certified: Indicates manufacturing adherence to strict automotive quality management systems.
– Complete OEM Cross-Reference: Includes a wide array of OEM and reference numbers (UF646, SP534) for easy verification.
– Warranty Support: Backed by a 1-Year or 50,000 km warranty, demonstrating manufacturer confidence.

Pros:
– Strong focus on quality control and testing.
– Comprehensive fitment list ensures compatibility.
– Excellent price point for a complete six-cylinder ignition overhaul.

Cons:
– While quality is certified, the performance may not match true OEM Ford parts under extreme conditions.

Best for: Reliable replacement on a budget with a focus on certified quality.

Expert Opinion: The inclusion of certified manufacturing standards (TS16949) makes this value kit more trustworthy than some generic options. This is a very practical choice for the average driver doing routine maintenance.

Yoshi Motors DG549 UF646 Ignition Coil Packs & NGK Iridium Spark Plugs Compatible With Ecoboost Ford F150 F-150 Explorer Expedition Navigator 3.5 3.5L V6 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Set of 6

What sets the Yoshi Motors kit apart is the pairing of replacement ignition coils (referencing the common DG549/UF646 OE number) with genuine NGK Iridium Spark Plugs. This eliminates the uncertainty of using generic plugs found in other value kits. You get the peace of mind associated with NGK’s proven performance and durability, combined with the convenience and cost savings of replacing the coil packs simultaneously. This pairing is arguably the best balance of value and name-brand plug quality.

Key features that stand out:
– Genuine NGK Plugs: Utilizes the high-quality, trusted NGK Iridium plugs for optimal performance.
– High-Resistance Coils: Designed to resist high heat and electrical resistance, minimizing common coil failure points.
– Direct Fitment: Engineered for quick, direct replacement, saving time during installation.

Pros:
– Combines NGK quality plugs with affordable coils.
– Excellent solution for restoring lost power due to weak spark.
– High confidence in spark consistency due to the NGK component.

Cons:
– The coil quality might be slightly lower than OEM Motorcraft coils.

Best for: Buyers prioritizing name-brand spark plug performance within a replacement kit.

Expert Opinion: This is the compromise I often recommend—getting the known quality of an NGK plug while addressing aging ignition coils with a cost-effective replacement. Just ensure you check the plug gap before installing.

Ignition Coil Pack Spark Plugs Replacement for 3.5 V6 Turbo 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Ford F150 Ecoboost Expedition Explorer Flex Taurus Transit, Lincoln MKS MKT Navigator, UF646, Set of 6

This NPAUTO coil and plug combo kit emphasizes solving common performance issues experienced by older 3.5L Ecoboosts. If you’re struggling with issues like a rough engine idle or hard starts, this kit aims to restore performance by replacing the entire ignition system componentry. The manufacturer explicitly suggests replacing both the coils and the plugs together to achieve a “better and smoother ignition system,” which is wise advice for the 2017 F-150.

Key features that stand out:
– Focus on Problem Solving: Aims to eliminate issues like engine misfire and poor fuel economy often linked to aged ignition components.
– Premium Materials: Designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications for fitment and function.
– Extensive Fitment List: Confirms compatibility with the 3.5L V6 Turbo across multiple Ford and Lincoln vehicles up to 2017.

Pros:
– High level of focus on meeting or exceeding OEM standards.
– Ideal package for eliminating common 3.5L ignition problems.
– Comprehensive parts list makes installation straightforward.

Cons:
– Lacks a specific brand name for the plugs, requiring faith in the manufacturer’s quality control.

Best for: The user seeking a comprehensive, high-standard replacement kit to cure engine performance issues.

Expert Opinion: When an F-150 starts showing signs of an ailing ignition system, the symptoms can overlap between worn plugs and failing coils. Replacing them all with a kit like this is often the most cost-effective and efficient solution.

Set of 6 Ignition Coil Pack Iridium Spark Plug 3.5 EcoBoost V6 Compatible with Ford F150 F-150 Flex Taurus Explorer Lincoln MKS MKT 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 3.5L Turbo for DG549 SP534

Rounding out our list is another combined ignition system kit, distinguished by its incredibly detailed specifications provided for both the coils and the iridium spark plugs. This transparency gives confidence to the buyer who likes to verify parts thoroughly. The plugs come with specific details like preset gap, thread size, and hex size, ensuring you have the correct tools and knowledge before starting the job on your 2017 F-150. This is a solid, warrantied option for a full ignition refresh.

Key features that stand out:
– Detailed Specifications: Provides exact physical and electrical specs for both the coil and the plug (e.g., Preset Gap: 0.03 in, Terminal Quantity: 3).
– 24-Month Warranty: Offers strong, long-term protection against defects.
– Iridium Construction: Ensures durable, reliable performance from the spark plug component.

Pros:
– Industry-leading warranty period.
– High detail on specifications aids in professional installation.
– Reliable components for factory-spec replacement.

Cons:
– The default 0.030″ gap may need further reduction for heavily tuned vehicles.

Best for: DIY enthusiasts who appreciate specific component details and a strong warranty.

Expert Opinion: A good warranty is often the best indicator of manufacturer confidence in aftermarket parts. This 24-month coverage is excellent for ignition components and provides solid reassurance.

Comparison Insights for Best Spark Plugs For 2017 F150 3.5 Ecoboost

When deciding which spark plug setup is best for your 2017 F-150 3.5L Ecoboost, you need to consider your driving style and whether your truck is stock or modified.

For most stock daily drivers, the NGK Iridium IX plugs offer the best blend of longevity and performance consistency. They provide excellent durability and hold up well to stock boost pressure.

If you are running a tune (even a mild one) or frequently tow heavy loads, you must opt for a colder heat range. The Ford Racing Cold Spark Plug Set is the undisputed champion in this category, providing necessary thermal protection to avoid dangerous pre-ignition.

The value-based approach comes from the coil and plug combo kits. While the coils in these kits (like the AULINK or NPAUTO sets) are generally good quality, we found the Yoshi Motors kit to be superior because it includes genuine NGK Iridium Plugs, marrying brand-name plug quality with affordable coil replacement. This minimizes the risk of poor spark consistency.

Remember the gap: factory specification is typically around 0.030″–0.032″ for the 3.5L Ecoboost, but many owners find improved performance and misfire prevention when gapping down to 0.028″. Always check the gap of any plug you purchase, as they rarely arrive perfectly set.

Final Verdict

Choosing the right ignition components for the 2017 F-150 Ecoboost hinges entirely on how you use your truck.

If your F-150 is stock and you want maximum convenience and longevity: Go with the 6 pc NGK Iridium IX Spark Plugs. They’re a reliable, high-quality component designed to last.

If your F-150 is tuned, has custom exhaust, or sees consistent hard use: The Ford Racing Cold Spark Plug Set is non-negotiable. The colder heat range is a critical safety factor when increasing boost.

If you have high mileage (over 70k) and need a full ignition refresh (plugs and coils): We highly recommend the Yoshi Motors DG549 UF646 Ignition Coil Packs & NGK Iridium Spark Plugs. Replacing both components at once will save labor and ensures your entire system is running optimally with trusted NGK quality.

FAQ: Best Spark Plugs For 2017 F150 3.5 Ecoboost

What is the ideal spark plug gap for a stock 2017 F150 3.5L Ecoboost?

For a completely stock 2017 3.5L Ecoboost, the factory recommended gap is usually around 0.030″ to 0.032″. However, due to the high boost levels of this engine, many mechanics and enthusiasts recommend gapping down slightly to 0.028″ to 0.030″. A tighter gap helps prevent the spark from being blown out under peak boost pressure, reducing the chance of a misfire.

How often should I replace the spark plugs on my 3.5L Ecoboost F150?

Ford generally recommends a spark plug change interval of every 60,000 to 70,000 miles for the 3.5L Ecoboost. If you run an aggressive tune, use E85 fuel, or consistently tow heavy loads, it is highly advisable to shorten this interval to every 30,000 to 40,000 miles to maintain peak performance and prevent premature wear on the ignition coils.

Should I choose a “cold” plug or a “hot” plug for my Ecoboost engine?

For the high-compression, high-boost 3.5L Ecoboost, colder spark plugs (like the Ford Racing set) are usually preferred, especially if the engine is modified. A colder plug dissipates heat faster, reducing the risk of the tip getting too hot and causing pre-ignition, which can severely damage turbo engines. Stick to the stock heat range if the truck is completely stock, but move to a colder plug if running higher horsepower.

Why do spark plugs and ignition coils often fail together on the 3.5L Ecoboost?

When the spark plug gap widens due to wear, the ignition coil must generate significantly higher voltage to bridge that larger gap. This extra stress causes the coil to heat up and work harder, leading to premature failure of the ignition coils. Therefore, replacing both components (as offered in the combo kits reviewed) is a highly recommended maintenance strategy for reliability.

What are the signs that my F150’s spark plugs need to be replaced?

Common signs of worn spark plugs on the 3.5L Ecoboost include a rough or inconsistent engine idle, noticeable loss of power during acceleration, poor fuel economy, and engine hesitation or misfiring—especially when accelerating hard under boost. You might also notice a “check engine” light displaying misfire codes (P030X).

Is it necessary to use Iridium spark plugs in the 2017 F-150?

While not strictly required (some platinum plugs are available), Iridium spark plugs are highly recommended for the 3.5L Ecoboost. Iridium is extremely durable, resists corrosion, and maintains its gap much longer than copper or standard platinum plugs. This longevity is crucial given the intensive labor required to change plugs on the Ecoboost V6 platform.