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Blog

Why upgrade your vehicle’s spark plugs?

Posted on by Ben
Why upgrade a cars spark plugs?
17
Jul

Choosing the Right Spark Plug for Your EA888 Engine

Upgrading your spark plugs is a small change that can make a big difference, especially on tuned MQB vehicles. Whether you’re running a lightly modified daily or a full Stage 2 setup, choosing the correct plug can improve combustion stability, reduce misfires, and help protect your engine under load.

We currently offer four NGK plugs suitable for the EA888 Gen 3 2.0 TSI platform found in the Golf R, GTI, S3, Cupra and others. Each has a slightly different design and heat rating, so it’s important to match the right one to your setup.

Signs You May Need to Upgrade

  • Experiencing misfires under load
  • Running higher boost than stock
  • Switching to ethanol or blended fuels
  • Planning for track or fast road use
  • Changing turbo or mapping setup

Important: Always consult your tuner when choosing spark plugs. The right heat range and design will depend on your specific map, fuel type, and driving style. Selecting the wrong plug can lead to fouling, poor performance or in extreme cases, engine damage.

NGK R7438‑9 Racing Spark Plug

A popular choice for tuned MQB vehicles with high-boost setups.

  • Electrode Design: Non-projected centre with a slanted ground strap
  • Heat Range: 9 (hotter)
  • Best For: Warmer climates, aggressively tuned engines, high combustion temps
  • Benefits: Improved spark stability, better protection under heavy load
  • Notes: Suits stage 2+ or high-power builds where extra thermal protection is needed

NGK R7437‑8 Racing Spark Plug

A more specialised plug with a different design philosophy.

  • Electrode Design: Projected centre with a traditional curved ground strap
  • Heat Range: 8
  • Best For: Ethanol-blend or high-efficiency combustion setups
  • Benefits: Strong spark exposure in the chamber for efficient burn
  • Notes: Can foul if used in milder setups; best matched to specific tuning

NGK R7438‑8 Racing Spark Plug

Well suited to tuned vehicles in cooler climates, including typical UK conditions.

  • Electrode Design: Non-projected centre with a slanted ground strap
  • Heat Range: 8
  • Best For: Stage 1–2 tunes, daily-driven performance cars
  • Benefits: Balanced performance and heat control
  • Notes: Similar to the R7438-9 but better suited to lower ambient temps

NGK PLFER7A8EG Laser Platinum Spark Plug

The OEM-style plug offering longevity and reliability for stock or lightly tuned cars.

  • Electrode Design: Fine-wire platinum centre with platinum ground electrode
  • Heat Range: 7 (OEM standard)
  • Best For: Stock or mildly tuned engines
  • Benefits: Long life, consistent ignition, fuel efficiency, and clean combustion
  • Notes: Not ideal for heavily tuned engines due to heat range limitations
Ben