babyduke

I have the 2009 model which needs new spark plugs. Which brand do you recommend: Denso, NGK or Bosch?

Also, what is the fair labor cost by a mechanic if I provide the parts? DIY looks way too difficult for me.

ThumperPup

im going to use OEM plugs in the next few weeks
and my Dealership quated me 353 after taxs for the labor

igzy

OEM plugs are Denso Iridiums I believe... From what I remember they were about $8-10/pc...

The change is not too difficult imo and can be done without taking the surge tank off if you have slim arms... The tricky part is that about 4 coil and 1 cam position sensor connectors broke when unplugging them cause the plastic is so brittle... This made it a PITA job...

You can take it to a Toyota dealership to save a few $$$... Both will charge you 1.5~2 hours labor plus parts...

LexPegged

whooodat

iTrader: (4)

LexPegged- Spark plugs are due at 120,000 by Lexus.

chuyrobles

The book says to replace at 120K, but I say 100K. When I replaced the first set at 118K, all the gaps were .055+; OEM gap is .043. The engine has never faltered but the wider gaps put a strain on the ignition system. I replaced the 2nd set at 207K (that's 89K on the plugs). Both sets were NGK Iridiums. I put Denso Iridium Long Life in my Tacoma and that's what I would recommend for the Lexus. The ground electrodes in the LL's have a platinum insert and designed to not wear down as quickly as standard ground electrodes, which are a nickel alloy, and which is found in most Iridium plugs, including Denso's and NGK's. The LL's are $10 each but worth it imo.

I have no idea how much it was cost as I replaced them myself. I would look up a few shops on Yelp and ask for a quote to compare prices.

Another thing you should consider replacing, and you will not find this in the maintenance schedule, is replacing the ADP pulley in the alternator. Gates makes a good replacement and recommends replacement at 100K. Our's frooze at 155K and fried the alternator, which was a PITA to replace. Replace the serpentine belt while you're at it, and check the idler pulleys and tensioner pulley for play.