Want to know which are the best spark plugs for 5.7 Vortec engines?
In this ProperMechanic.com guide, you will learn:
- Which spark plugs are the best option for your 5.7 Chevy engine
- How to inspect and change your spark plugs on a V8 engine
- Great tips on performing routine maintenance on your vehicle
And much more!
We've done our research to help you figure out the best products for your engine, so you can spend less time wondering and more time knowing the facts.
Below is a quick list of all our top products. Keep scrolling to learn more about how to choose and use spark plugs that will help enhance the power and efficiency of your 5.7 Vortec engine.
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Our Top Pick
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Our Top Pick
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ACDelco Professional Iridium
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View on Amazon |
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Best Budget
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Best Budget
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NGK G-Power Platinum Alloy
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View on Amazon |
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Best High End
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Best High End
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Bosch Iridium
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View on Amazon |
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Denso Iridium Power Spark Plugs
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View on Amazon | |
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Autolite Iridium XP
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View on Amazon |
Overall #1 Rated Pick
Updated As of 4/16/2020
Top Rated Overall:
ACDelco Professional Iridium
- A gasket that seals against combustion leaks
- Better engine stability
- Burns away carbon deposits
ACDelco is an American brand that you can count on. And besides, you are tuning up an American engine, correct? So why not use an American part that was engineered by the same like-minded people?
Our top pick is the ACDelco because this is a part that can be confidently used in professional automotive repair situations. There is a reason why this part is in such high demand, and that is because of its quality.
Top 5 Best Spark Plugs for a 5.7 Vortec
Check out our below list for a summary of our results. Keep on reading to learn more about your other options!
How To Change Spark Plugs for Your 5.7 Vortec?
If you don't already have them, visit your local auto parts store and pick up these tools:
- Spark plug socket with extension and wobble socket
- Torque wrench
- Feeler gauges
- Spark plug boot pliers (these aren't necessary but help for easy boot removal)
- Screwdriver set
First, you will have to remove the old plugs which can sometimes be a pain if the wire boots haven't been removed for a long time.
Put rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle, and spray around the wire boot for easy removal and to avoid damaging them. You can also spray the inside of the boot with alcohol, or apply dielectric grease before installing it to clean up the electrical connection.
The spark plugs towards the back of the engine bay will require a wobble socket for access. You will probably also have to disconnect an air hose that connects to the air intake.
Remove each spark plug, and inspect it for signs of fouling due to oil. If you have a bad valve cover gasket, be sure to get that taken care of before changing the spark plugs.
Also, if there is oil on your spark plug but your valve cover gasket isn't leaking oil then you should perform a compression test to ensure that your piston rings are functioning properly and not letting oil into the combustion chamber.
Blow out each spark plug opening with compressed air to avoid leaving debris in the combustion chamber which can cause a loud banging noise when first starting the engine.
Gap the new spark plugs to the recommended distances between the center electrode and ground electrode, and carefully install them at the recommended torque spec; anywhere from 12-15 newton-meters is a good bet.
Don't forget that you can also apply dielectric grease where the spark plug meets the wire boot for a super clean electrical connection.
Reinstall the spark plug wires in the same order that you removed them, and reconnect any air hoses or electrical connectors.
Are There Different Types of Spark Plugs For the 5.7 Vortec?
There are a lot of different spark plugs for sale on the market today. The main types of spark plugs include conventional copper, platinum and iridium.
Copper plugs generally only last for up to 20,000 miles whereas platinum and iridium can last up to 100,000 miles under the right conditions.
Read More >> How to Check a Spark Plug
How To Choose The Spark Plug Wires for the 5.7 Vortec?
Talk to your local parts professional to get a good idea for which are the best choices for your 5.7 Vortec.
Note: Off-brand products that are made in unknown foreign lands are not the right choice for a crucial engine component. Japan, Germany, and the USA are the countries that currently make the best spark plugs for your 5.7 Vortec.
Google and Youtube are also your best friend when it comes to finding parts for and repairing any vehicle. The modern-day automotive technician has a lot more to work with when compared to the pre-internet mechanic.
How Long Should My Spark Plugs Last In My 5.7 Vortec?
If your engine isn't leaking onto your spark plugs, then they can last for up to 100,000 miles, but you should service them about every 60,000 to avoid a misfire from occurring.
Copper plugs usually only last for 20,000 miles of driving, so if you aren't trying to change your spark plugs out along with your oil then spend a little bit more money for some platinum or iridium plugs.
Important: Your spark plugs will last the longest if you stay on top of your vehicle maintenance. If you have an oil leak or low cylinder compression, then this can significantly reduce the life of your spark plugs.
You may want to take care of other more significant repairs before you get to the spark plugs. Think of it like putting the icing on the cake.
Read More >> How to Gap a Spark Plug
Our Reviews Of The Best 5.7 Vortec Spark Plugs
Pick #4: Denso Iridium Power Spark Plugs
After installing Denso Iridium spark plugs on your vehicle you will find that the engine idles smoother, accelerates better and has powered more.
That's because these are hot burning spark plugs that are built to last longer than just a few thousand miles.
Spend a few extra dollars on a set of Denso plugs and you will be driving smoothly.
Pros
Cons
Pick #5: Autolite Iridium XP
Don't look past Autolite if they are available in your local auto parts store.
These are a good option, don't cost too much and have all the necessary elements for a premium running quality on your vehicle.
These are also made by an American company, so use them confidently in your American-made 5.7 Vortec.
Pros
Cons
Our Top Pick: ACDelco plugs
You can't go wrong with ACDelco plugs because they are the factory recommendation.
Despite what happens in the sales department of a GM dealer, the parts advisor will usually recommend the best part for your vehicle without too much bias on making a profit.
Stay loyal to the American economy by purchasing American parts.
Iridium is the high-end of the spectrum, and ACDelco offers you deals on Amazon in packs of four at an affordable price.
We recommend parts made in the USA because shipping costs are cheap, and prices are reasonable when compared to European parts.
Read More >> How to Check a Spark Plug
Final Thoughts On Spark Plugs for the 5.7 Vortec Engine
The Vortec engine is a more modern version of the original 350 Chevy small block that is designed with an improved head that creates a vortex inside the combustion chamber for better air/fuel atomization.
It is said to have added about 50 horsepower to the original 350 small blocks made by General Motors.
You now have new spark plugs successfully installed on vehicles like the Tahoe, Camaro, Silverado and more. It's time to enjoy the open road in a vehicle equipped with a classic 255 horsepower V8 engine made in the USA.
Read More >> Best Spark Plugs for 5.3 Silverado
