5 Best Spark Plugs For 4.8 LS Tested in 2025

When I started diving into refreshing my trusty old 4.8L LS truck, the first thing I realized was how crucial the right set of spark plugs is. You can’t get that smooth idle, snappy throttle response, or decent gas mileage without them working perfectly. Choosing the best spark plugs for 4.8 LS requires balancing longevity, heat range, and price point. I’ve put together this detailed guide comparing some of the top-tested options to help you decide which set will keep your powerful small block running strong and reliably for years to come.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	8 pc NGK V-Power Spark Plugs compatible with Chevrolet…	View on Amazon
	8 Pcs Iridium Spark Plugs Replace OEM# 41-110 41-162…	View on Amazon
	TICANEE Iridium Spark Plugs and Wires Set for Chevy 5.3L…	View on Amazon
	8 pc NGK V-Power Spark Plugs compatible with Chevrolet…	View on Amazon
	HIKARU PARTS Wires Set & NGK Spark Plug Compatible with…	View on Amazon

8 pc NGK V-Power Spark Plugs compatible with Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L V8 1999-2013

These NGK V-Power plugs are a fantastic choice if you’re looking for reliable performance without breaking the bank, especially for older 4.8L truck applications. They utilize a specialized V-groove design on the center electrode which effectively concentrates the spark, improving ignitability and reducing misfires right out of the box. These are an excellent upgrade or replacement for standard copper plugs and are known for their consistency and genuine fitment on a wide range of LS engines. They offer great overall economy and trusted NGK quality.

Key features that stand out:

• V-Groove Design: Enhances spark development for reliable ignition.
• Nickel Electrode: Provides robust performance and heat transfer in daily driving scenarios.
• Precision Laser-Welded Construction: Ensures durability and consistent performance over the plug’s lifespan.

Pros:
– Excellent value for money and a clear upgrade over cheap generic plugs.
– Known for improving cold starts and idle smoothness.
– Genuine NGK parts ensure fitment compatibility.
– High resistance to carbon fouling.

Cons:
– Nickel material won’t last as long as Iridium options (usually 30k miles).

Best for:
Budget-conscious daily drivers and owners of older 4.8L LS engines seeking reliable OEM-level performance.

Expert Opinion: NGK’s V-Power series is a benchmark standard in the replacement market. While they require more frequent replacement than Iridium, their focused spark ensures maximum efficiency in factory-tuned engines.

8 Pcs Iridium Spark Plugs Replace OEM# 41-110 41-162 41-985 9602 19417055, Compatible with Chevy Silverado Tahoe Avalanche Corvette Camaro GMC Sierra Yukon 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L 6.6L 8.1L V8

If you value longevity and OEM quality, these Iridium plugs are designed to be a direct replacement for the popular GM 41-110 standard. Iridium is significantly harder than platinum or nickel, meaning these plugs can handle higher temperatures and last much longer—often up to 100,000 miles, which is ideal if you hate doing tune-ups. They arrive pre-gapped correctly at 0.04″, saving you time and ensuring reliable ignition right away, especially important for the 4.8L LS.

Key features that stand out:

• Direct OEM Replacement: Seamlessly replaces multiple GM part numbers (e.g., 41-110).
• Iridium Material: Delivers extreme longevity and excellent stability under various load conditions.
• Pre-Gapped: Features a consistent 0.04″ gap, simplifying installation.

Pros:
– Exceptional lifespan—significantly reduces maintenance intervals.
– Broad compatibility across the entire LS V8 family (4.8L to 8.1L).
– Consistent spark due to the thin, strong Iridium electrode.
– Highly resistant to corrosion and heat erosion.

Cons:
– While premium, these can be pricier than nickel alternatives upfront.

Best for:
Owners prioritizing maximum mileage, reduced maintenance, and factory-standard performance.

Expert Opinion: Utilizing high-quality Iridium in a direct OE replacement format is the smart choice for longevity. For modern LS engines, Iridium plugs offer the best combination of performance and low maintenance.

TICANEE Iridium Spark Plugs and Wires Set for Chevy 5.3L Silverado 1500 Suburban Avalanche Tahoe 4.8L 6.0L, 41-110 Spark Plugs Compatible with GMC Yukon Sierra 12621258

Sometimes, when you’re changing the plugs, you realize the wires are brittle and need replacing, too. This kit solves that problem immediately by pairing high-quality Iridium plugs with a new wireset. Designed specifically for the family of GM trucks and SUVs, this set ensures you get strong spark delivery from the coil to the plug. The dual Iridium tip on these plugs guarantees fantastic durability, offering up to 100,000 miles of service. This is a fantastic ‘all-in-one’ solution for a full tune-up.

Key features that stand out:

• Includes Spark Plugs and Wires: A complete ignition tune-up kit in one package.
• Dual Iridium Tip: Offers exceptional resistance to erosion and fouling.
• Pure Copper Core: Improves heat dissipation and overall electrical conductivity for cooler running.

Pros:
– Comprehensive kit simplifies the tune-up process.
– Long-lasting Iridium plugs reduce the worry of premature failure.
– Includes a 24-month guarantee for peace of mind.
– Designed as “plug n play” direct replacements.

Cons:
– The included wireset quality might not match premium OEM wire kits.

Best for:
DIYers performing a full ignition system refresh who need both plugs and wires.

Expert Opinion: Anytime you approach 100k miles, replacing both plugs and wires is wise. This kit provides outstanding value and uses Iridium technology to ensure high performance and efficiency for the next hundred thousand miles.

8 pc NGK V-Power Spark Plugs compatible with Chevrolet Tahoe 4.8L 5.3L 5.7L 6.0L 6.2L V8 1998-2014

NGK reappears on the list because these V-Power plugs, while similar to the first set, feature a specific formulation ideal for trucks like the Tahoe and older LS platform vehicles. The major standout here is the Trivalent Metal Plating. This is a highly beneficial feature, as it provides superior anti-seizing and anti-corrosion properties. In plain English, this means when it comes time to change these plugs again in a few years, they won’t be frozen stuck in your aluminum cylinder heads—a common worry for long-term LS owners.

Key features that stand out:

• Trivalent Metal Plating: Crucial anti-seizing properties for easy removal years later.
• Economical Performance: Delivers better spark characteristics than standard copper plugs at an affordable price.
• Wide Compatibility: Fits a large range of older 4.8L LS and larger displacement engines.

Pros:
– Exceptional protection against corrosion and seizing in harsh environments.
– Proven NGK reliability and improved throttle response.
– Good heat range management for older engines.

Cons:
– The Nickel core longevity is lower compared to Iridium.

Best for:
Owners of older 4.8L trucks used in harsh climates, where seizing plugs are a concern.

Expert Opinion: The use of Trivalent Plating is a non-negotiable feature for aluminum heads, especially if the vehicle sees lots of moisture or salt. It’s an often-overlooked factor that makes future maintenance significantly easier.

HIKARU PARTS Wires Set & NGK Spark Plug Compatible with LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS Chevy Chevrolet Silverado Tahoe Suburban GMC Sierra Cadillac 5.3 4.8 5.3 6.0 6.2 V8 for 9748UU 9748HH 9748RR 41-962 41-110

This HIKARU PARTS kit provides excellent budget value by pairing a complete wireset with NGK-style spark plugs. While listed as a direct replacement part, the major draw here is the combination of affordability and the extensive 7-year warranty. If you’re looking to refresh your entire ignition system on a tight budget while still ensuring you cover all your 4.8L LS cylinders, this kit is hard to ignore. It’s designed to function identically to the factory OE parts but at a fraction of the dealer cost.

Key features that stand out:

• Combo Package: Includes both plugs (NGK style) and wires, providing a full replacement solution.
• 7-Year Warranty: An exceptionally long guarantee for replacement parts, offering significant peace of mind.
• OE Functionality: Designed to fit and work precisely like the original equipment factory parts.

Pros:
– Excellent price point for a complete plug and wire kit.
– Very long warranty shows confidence in the product’s lifespan.
– Easy fitment across multiple LS displacements, including the 4.8L.

Cons:
– The plugs are NGK style, which means they may not offer the same absolute precision as genuine NGK.

Best for:
Value shoppers who need both plugs and wires and want maximum warranty coverage for their investment.

Expert Opinion: For maximizing savings while executing a full ignition service, combo kits like this are smart. The 7-year warranty is particularly strong for a wear-and-tear item, making it a low-risk option.

Comparison and Buying Insights for Your 4.8 LS

Choosing the right plug depends entirely on your priority: longevity, budget, or comprehensive service.

If your main goal is maximum mileage between services, the Iridium plugs (like Product 2 or 3) are the clear winners. They might cost more upfront, but they should last 3 to 4 times longer than the Nickel V-Power plugs. Iridium provides superior resistance to tip erosion and is essential for modern tune-ups.

For the owner of a high-mileage 4.8L engine on a budget, the NGK V-Power options (Product 1 or 4) are excellent choices. They provide reliable performance and a better spark focus than generic plugs. The Trivalent Metal Plating in Product 4 is a critical feature that protects your aluminum engine heads from seizing plugs.

Finally, if you’re tackling a full maintenance job, buying a kit that includes the spark plug wires, such as the TICANEE or HIKARU options, offers the best comprehensive value. It is highly recommended to replace both the plugs and the wires simultaneously, especially after 75,000 miles.

The Final Spark: Which Plug Should You Choose?

After reviewing the options and considering real-world scenarios for the reliable 4.8L LS, we can categorize the recommendations based on your needs:

🥇 Best for Longevity & OEM Quality:
We recommend the 8 Pcs Iridium Spark Plugs Replace OEM# 41-110… (Product 2). You install them once and forget about them for nearly 100,000 miles. Their pre-gapped consistency and specific OEM replacement guarantee the best long-term reliability.

🥈 Best Bang for Your Buck (Plugs Only):
The 8 pc NGK V-Power Spark Plugs compatible with Chevrolet Tahoe… (Product 4) wins here. You get genuine NGK quality, reliable nickel performance, and the crucial anti-seizing plating, all at a cost-effective price point.

🥉 Best All-in-One Tune-Up Kit:
The TICANEE Iridium Spark Plugs and Wires Set (Product 3) is the strongest contender. Combining long-lasting Iridium plugs with new wires makes for a powerful, durable tune-up that immediately improves overall ignition performance.

Best Spark Plugs For 4.8 LS: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What gap size should I use for the 4.8 LS engine?

For stock 4.8L LS engines, the factory recommended gap size is generally 0.040 inches (1.0 mm). While many plugs come pre-gapped, it’s always best practice to use a spark plug gapper tool to double-check this specification before installation to ensure optimal performance and combustion efficiency.

Should I choose Iridium, Platinum, or Nickel spark plugs for my 4.8 LS?

The best material depends on your maintenance schedule. Iridium offers the longest lifespan (up to 100k miles) and superior hot performance. Platinum is a great middle ground (around 60k miles). Nickel (like NGK V-Power) is the most affordable but generally needs replacement around 30k miles. For the modern 4.8 LS, Iridium is usually the preferred choice for set-and-forget reliability.

How often should I replace the spark plugs on my 4.8 LS truck?

If you are running OEM-style Iridium spark plugs (like GM 41-110 replacements), the typical service interval is 100,000 miles. If you opt for Nickel-based plugs, you should plan to change them every 30,000 to 40,000 miles to maintain peak engine performance and fuel economy.

Does changing the spark plugs improve gas mileage on the 4.8L V8?

Yes, absolutely. Old, worn-out spark plugs can cause misfires and inefficient combustion, forcing the engine control unit (ECU) to adjust fuel delivery, which wastes gasoline. Installing new, properly gapped spark plugs for 4.8 LS ensures a strong, complete burn, restoring both power and fuel efficiency.

Do I need to use anti-seize compound on spark plugs in an aluminum head LS engine?

If you are installing plugs that feature specialized plating, such as NGK’s Trivalent Metal Plating, manufacturers usually advise against using additional anti-seize, as the plating performs that function and applying extra compound can artificially lower the torque reading. If you use basic plugs without specialized plating, a tiny amount of anti-seize on the threads is recommended for aluminum heads.

What are the signs that my 4.8 LS needs new spark plugs?

Common symptoms include rough idling, difficulty starting the engine (especially when cold), noticeable misfires under acceleration, and a reduction in fuel economy. If your truck has triggered a “Check Engine” light, misfire codes (like P0300 series) are often a direct indicator that replacement 4.8L LS spark plugs are needed.