How to Identify Platinum and Iridium Spark Plugs for Recycling

Before recycling spark plugs, it’s important to know which ones contain platinum or iridium. This guide explains how to identify high-value plugs and avoid worthless ones.

1. Visual Identification Tips

Platinum Spark Plugs

• Look for a small silver-white disc on the electrode
• Often marked with "PT" or "Platinum" on the shell
• Common in Honda, Toyota, and GM vehicles

Iridium Spark Plugs

• Have a very fine, needle-like center electrode
• Usually labeled "IR" or "Iridium"
• Found in Lexus, BMW, and performance engines

Low-Value Copper Core Plugs

• Large brown or copper-colored electrode
• No precious metal markings

• Found in older or economy vehicles

  
  

2. Brand-Specific Examples

Brand Precious Metal Type Model Examples

NGK Iridium IFR6A11, BKR6EIX

Denso Platinum PK20TT, K20PR-U11

Bosch Platinum +4 (Yttrium) FR7DPP33

3. Where to Find Valuable Spark Plugs?

Luxury vehicles (Mercedes, Audi, Porsche)

Hybrid cars (Toyota Prius, Honda Insight)

Performance engines (Ford Mustang, Chevy Corvette)

4. Sell Your Used Spark Plugs to Us

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Contact Dingfeng Precious Metals Recycling for a free evaluation.