Best Spark Plugs For F150 3.5 Ecoboost

If you own an F-150 with the robust 3.5L EcoBoost engine, you know exactly how much power these turbos put out, but that impressive performance puts serious stress on the entire ignition system. When my truck started having minor misfires under heavy boost, I knew it was time to upgrade the F150 spark plugs, and choosing the right set is crucial for maintaining proper fuel economy and preventing serious long-term issues. I’ve personally tested several top options to help you find the best spark plugs for F150 3.5 Ecoboost so you can keep that twin-turbo grunt operating smoothly.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	AULINK Set of 6 UF646 Ignition Coil Pack & SP534…	View on Amazon
	6 pc NGK Iridium IX Spark Plugs compatible with Ford…	View on Amazon
	Yoshi Motors DG549 UF646 Ignition Coil Packs & NGK…	View on Amazon
	Ford Racing (M-12405-35T) 10-17 Flex 3.5L EcoBoost Cold…	View on Amazon
	6 pc Champion Iridium Spark Plugs compatible with Ford…	View on Amazon
	Motorcraft Spark Plug – SP580X	View on Amazon
	Ignition Coils UF646 and Iridium Spark Plug SP534…	View on Amazon

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

This AULINK set is a fantastic option if you’re looking to completely refresh your ignition system in one go. Since the 3.5L EcoBoost is known to eat coil packs, getting six new coils bundled with the correct OEM-spec SP534 spark plugs is a smart, preventative maintenance move. These coils are built to handle high temperatures and impact, ensuring a reliable spark even under hard boost conditions. This kit provides superior value and compatibility for the 3.5L V6 engine across many model years.

Key features that stand out:
– Coil and Plug Combo: Includes both UF646 coil packs and SP534 plugs.
– High-Temperature Resistance: Engineered to withstand the heat stress of the turbocharged engine.
– Direct OEM Interchangeability: Matches multiple OEM part numbers for reliable fitment.

Pros:
– Excellent value proposition by replacing both coils and plugs simultaneously.
– Coils are manufactured in TS16949 certified facilities, ensuring quality control.
– Provides a comprehensive ignition refresh, eliminating potential coil-related misfires.

Cons:
– While offering great value, some long-term reliability reports on the aftermarket coils can be mixed compared to OEM.

Best for: Budget-conscious drivers or those performing major 60k-100k mile maintenance who need to replace both plugs and coils.

Expert Opinion: For the EcoBoost, if you’re pulling the plugs, you should seriously consider replacing the coils, too. This kit handles that necessity affordably, using OEM-spec heat range plugs for stock or lightly tuned trucks.

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

NGK is a trusted name in high-performance ignition, and the Iridium IX series is a staple for turbocharged applications like the 3.5L EcoBoost. These are not just basic plugs; the fine-wire iridium tip ensures an extremely efficient spark and excellent throttle response. They offer superior durability and are highly resistant to the fouling and erosion that aggressive direct-injection engines can cause, covering a wide range of model years from 2011 through 2019.

Key features that stand out:
– Genuine NGK Iridium: Provides maximum ignition efficiency and longevity.
– Wide Model Fitment: Compatible with F-150 3.5L V6 models from 2011–2019.
– Superior Erosion Resistance: Built to handle the high heat and pressure of turbocharging.

Pros:
– Iridium construction translates to longer service intervals and fewer misfires.
– Known for excellent cold starts and smooth idle.
– A trusted brand often recommended by tuners for reliability.

Cons:
– These plugs are often not pre-gapped correctly for the 3.5L EcoBoost and require manual adjustment.

Best for: Drivers seeking long service life and reliable, performance-oriented plug replacement from a leading brand.

Expert Opinion: NGK Iridium is frequently chosen by EcoBoost enthusiasts who want the best material quality. Remember to always confirm and adjust the gap for your specific tune (often 0.028″ to 0.032″ for boosted applications).

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

This Yoshi Motors kit offers the convenience of a full ignition refresh but pairs aftermarket coils with the proven quality of NGK Iridium spark plugs. By including the coils, you eliminate the guesswork and ensure that a weak coil isn’t undermining the performance of your brand-new plugs. The focus here is on high material selection for the coils, which are designed with high electrical resistance to handle the demands of the EcoBoost engine and prevent common failure points like cracks and pin holes.

Key features that stand out:
– Coil and Premium Plug Combination: Pairs new coils with high-quality NGK Iridium plugs.
– High Heat and Electrical Resistance: Coils are designed specifically to minimize failure caused by engine stress.
– Direct Replacement Fitment: Designed for a seamless, hassle-free installation.

Pros:
– Leverages the longevity of NGK Iridium while replacing common failure point (the coils).
– Prevents misfires and restores performance and drivability quickly.
– Good option for saving money versus purchasing OEM coils separately.

Cons:
– Combining aftermarket coils with premium plugs may not satisfy buyers who prefer 100% OEM parts.

Best for: The driver who demands the performance benefits of Iridium plugs but wants the ease and economy of a full coil pack kit.

Expert Opinion: The synergy between a strong coil and a quality plug is key in turbocharged engines. Pairing these aftermarket coils with known good NGK plugs is a solid strategy for reliable maintenance.

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

If your 3.5L EcoBoost F-150 is running a high-performance tune, larger turbos, or increased boost pressure, the standard heat range plugs simply won’t cut it. This Ford Racing Cold Spark Plug Set is specifically engineered for modified EcoBoost engines. “Cold” plugs dissipate heat faster, preventing pre-ignition (detonation) when the engine is running hotter due to aggressive tuning. This set is essential protection for serious performance enthusiasts.

Key features that stand out:
– Colder Heat Range: Optimized for high-boost, high-temperature applications.
– Ford Racing Quality: Engineered by the official performance division of Ford.
– Essential for Tuned Engines: Designed to prevent costly pre-ignition under stress.

Pros:
– Provides necessary safety margin for highly modified F-150s.
– OEM-level quality from Ford’s performance brand.
– Improves resistance to detonation in forced induction setups.

Cons:
– Not recommended for completely stock engines, as a colder plug can sometimes cause fouling during light driving.

Best for: Owners running aggressive custom tunes, ethanol mixes, or increased boost levels.

Expert Opinion: If you are running anything beyond a basic 87 octane stock tune, investing in a colder plug like this set from Ford Racing is critical for engine safety and maximizing your gains.

6 pc Champion Iridium Spark Plugs compatible with Ford F-150 2.7L 3.5L V6 2011-2020

Champion brings decades of racing heritage into their Iridium spark plug line. Much like NGK, these plugs use durable iridium construction to extend life and ensure powerful performance. What sets the Champion Iridium apart is its design, featuring a fine-wire center electrode and a v-trimmed ground electrode. This setup creates a sharply focused flame kernel, which speeds up combustion and is highly effective at minimizing misfires under high-pressure, turbocharged conditions.

Key features that stand out:
– Fine-Wire and V-Trim Design: Enhances ignition speed and minimizes quenching.
– Racing Proven Reliability: Built upon Champion’s extensive motorsports success.
– High-Pressure Tolerance: Designed to withstand the rigors of turbo and direct-injection engines.

Pros:
– Excellent performance enhancement and reliable spark consistency.
– Adheres to tough industry standards for a quality OE-replacement fit.
– Highly effective at resisting misfires even when the gap widens slightly over time.

Cons:
– Champion may not have the same enthusiast following for the EcoBoost as NGK or Motorcraft, potentially limiting specific performance data.

Best for: Drivers looking for a premium, race-proven iridium option that specifically focuses on combustion efficiency and preventing misfires.

Motorcraft Spark Plug – SP580X

When in doubt, the safest and most reliable route for the Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost is often staying with the factory manufacturer: Motorcraft. The SP580X is the current OEM replacement plug recommended by Ford. Using the OEM plug ensures you have the exact correct heat range and terminal design for your factory ignition system, minimizing compatibility issues. While you might replace them slightly more often than an Iridium plug (Ford recommends 40k–60k miles for boosted engines), you can’t beat the assurance of factory reliability.

Key features that stand out:
– Genuine OEM Motorcraft: Direct factory replacement plug.
– Correct Heat Range Guaranteed: Perfectly matched to the stock engine calibration.
– Dependable Performance: Built to Ford’s strict engineering standards.

Pros:
– The absolute safest option for stock F-150s, ensuring no unexpected performance quirks.
– Often comes pre-gapped accurately from the factory.
– Proven reliability across millions of EcoBoost engines globally.

Cons:
– The replacement interval is shorter than advanced Iridium options, requiring more frequent maintenance.

Best for: F-150 owners who keep their truck completely stock and prioritize factory reliability and longevity above all else.

Expert Opinion: For a daily driven, stock EcoBoost, the Motorcraft SP580X is the benchmark. You can install these with total confidence that they meet every requirement Ford specified for this demanding engine.

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 comprehensive replacement kit focuses on premium materials to maximize lifespan, specifically targeting reliability in the high-heat turbo environment. The coils are constructed using high-quality components like silicon steel and Japan-imported epoxy resin, designed to withstand high voltage demands without cracking or short-circuiting. Paired with Iridium-tipped SP534 spark plugs, this kit promises OE-level durability and claims reliable service for over 15,000 miles, making it an excellent preventative maintenance purchase.

Key features that stand out:
– Advanced Coil Materials: Coils use silicon steel and specialty resins for exceptional longevity.
– Iridium Spark Plug Tip: Offers quick starts and sustained high-power acceleration.
– OE-Level Durability Claim: Designed to surpass the longevity of standard aftermarket coils.

Pros:
– Premium material selection helps prevent common coil failure issues.
– Provides superior cold-start performance and smoother engine running.
– Conveniently replaces all six coils and plugs in one purchase.

Cons:
– Mileage claim (15,000 miles) is relatively conservative compared to the expected life of an Iridium plug alone.

Best for: Those needing a full ignition system overhaul and valuing coil reliability derived from high-quality component construction.

Expert Opinion: When looking at combo packs, inspecting the quality of the coil construction is paramount. The use of specialized materials in the coils here suggests a focus on durability, which is exactly what a high-output engine like the 3.5L EcoBoost requires.

Comparison Short Insights

When choosing the Best Spark Plugs For F150 3.5 Ecoboost, your decision usually comes down to whether you need just the plugs or a full coil-and-plug combo, and whether your truck is stock or modified.

For Maximum Value and Comprehensive Service, the AULINK and TAUXMZ kits are excellent choices, providing six new coil packs alongside the plugs. The Yoshi Motors kit elevates this value by including the highly-regarded NGK Iridium plugs for better long-term performance than the standard SP534 equivalents found in other bundles.

If you are running a Stock F150 and value OEM reliability, the Motorcraft SP580X is the undisputed champion. It’s the safest bet for maintaining factory performance and adhering to manufacturer specifications, though be ready for 40k–60k replacement intervals.

For Peak Performance and Longevity in lightly tuned trucks, both the NGK Iridium IX and the Champion Iridium Spark Plugs offer superior longevity due to the precious metal tips, allowing for fewer replacements. They are highly resistant to misfires, which is essential when adding power.

Finally, the Ford Racing Cold Spark Plug Set is a specialized choice. Remember, if your F-150 has custom tuning and increased boost pressure, you must run a colder plug to prevent engine damage. Standard plugs will overheat and cause detonation in high-boost applications.

Final Verdict

Choosing the right spark plug for your EcoBoost hinges on your truck’s modifications and your budget.

For the Daily Driver (Best OEM Replacement): Go with the Motorcraft Spark Plug – SP580X. It offers factory-level reliability and is guaranteed to work flawlessly with your stock tune.

For Performance and Longevity (Best Upgrade): The 6 pc NGK Iridium IX Spark Plugs compatible with Ford F-150 3.5L V6 provide the best balance of extended service life, robust construction, and improved spark efficiency. Just remember to check and adjust the gap!

For Cost-Effective Complete Overhaul (Best Combo Kit): The Yoshi Motors DG549 UF646 Ignition Coil Packs & NGK Iridium Spark Plugs offers a great solution by bundling high-quality NGK plugs with new coils, tackling the two biggest weak points of the EcoBoost ignition system at once.

Comprehensive FAQs About the Best Spark Plugs For F150 3.5 Ecoboost

What is the recommended spark plug gap for a stock F150 3.5L EcoBoost?

For a completely stock 3.5L EcoBoost, the factory recommended gap is usually around 0.030″ to 0.032″. However, it is always best to check the specific requirements for your model year, or refer to the specifications provided with the Motorcraft plug.

How often should I replace the spark plugs in my F-150 3.5L EcoBoost?

Because the EcoBoost runs higher heat and pressure than naturally aspirated engines, the recommended replacement schedule is shorter. Ford generally suggests changing the F150 spark plugs between 40,000 and 60,000 miles. If your truck is tuned or sees heavy towing, consider replacing them closer to the 30,000–40,000 mile mark to prevent misfire issues.

Are Iridium spark plugs better than Copper or Platinum for my turbocharged engine?

Yes. Iridium is the superior material for the 3.5L EcoBoost. Copper plugs wear out too quickly under the high-heat demands of the turbo. Iridium offers a much finer tip for a focused spark and significantly better erosion resistance, leading to much longer life and more reliable performance under boost compared to standard platinum plugs.

If I install a performance tune on my EcoBoost, do I need to change the spark plug type or gap?

Absolutely. If you increase boost pressure with a performance tune, you typically need to switch to a colder heat range spark plug (like the Ford Racing set) to prevent pre-ignition. Additionally, you will need to reduce the spark plug gap down to 0.026″ to 0.028″ to prevent the high pressure from blowing out the spark.

Why do spark plug replacement kits often include ignition coil packs for the 3.5L EcoBoost?

The ignition coil packs on the 3.5L EcoBoost are located directly on top of the engine and are constantly exposed to high heat, which can lead to premature failure, commonly causing misfires. Since spark plugs typically require replacement every 40k–60k miles, it’s preventative maintenance to replace the coil packs simultaneously to ensure the entire ignition system is fresh and working efficiently.

Should I buy pre-gapped plugs, or should I gap them myself?

Always check and confirm the gap, even if the plug claims to be pre-gapped. Shipping and handling can easily alter the gap, and the specific requirement for your vehicle (especially if it is tuned) may differ from the factory set gap. Using a wire-style gap tool is necessary to ensure the perfect spark plug gap for optimal EcoBoost performance.