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How Much Are Spark Plugs for a 2017 Hyundai Tucson?

Spark plugs for a 2017 Hyundai Tucson typically cost about $8–$25 per plug for standard or OEM-style replacements, or $15–$35 per plug for premium iridium or high-performance options, with a full set usually running between $40 and $140 before labor. The final price depends on engine size, plug type, brand, and where you buy them.

Why Spark Plug Prices Vary for the 2017 Hyundai Tucson

The 2017 Hyundai Tucson came with several engine options and each one can use slightly different spark plugs, which influences price and availability. On top of that, there are different plug materials (copper, platinum, iridium), different brands, and different markups between dealerships, parts stores, and online retailers. Understanding which engine you have and what the manufacturer recommends is the first step toward estimating an accurate cost.

Engine Types and Recommended Spark Plug Specifications

The exact spark plug type and price for a 2017 Tucson depend largely on which engine is under the hood. Hyundai’s recommended plug type and gap help determine which products are compatible and how much you’ll pay.

Common 2017 Hyundai Tucson Engine Options

The following list outlines the primary 2017 Hyundai Tucson engines and the general type of spark plugs they use, which directly affects cost and shopping choices.

  • 2.0L 4-cylinder (GDI) – Common in SE and base trims; typically uses long-life iridium or platinum plugs.
  • 1.6L Turbocharged 4-cylinder (GDI) – Found in Eco, Sport, and Limited trims; usually requires premium iridium plugs specifically rated for turbo applications.
  • 2.4L 4-cylinder (in some markets) – Less common in North America but present in some regions; also typically uses iridium or platinum plugs.

While all these engines use modern long-life plugs, turbocharged engines are often more sensitive to plug design and quality, making it especially important to match the correct specification and brand.

OEM vs. Aftermarket Recommendations

Hyundai generally specifies iridium spark plugs for the 2017 Tucson, especially on the direct-injected and turbocharged engines. OEM plugs are often branded Hyundai/Mobis but are usually manufactured by major suppliers such as NGK or Denso.

The following list summarizes how OEM and aftermarket options compare, which is important when deciding what you’re willing to spend.

  • OEM (Hyundai/Mobis, NGK, Denso) – Designed to match factory performance and longevity; usually mid- to upper-range in price.
  • Aftermarket equivalents (NGK, Denso, Bosch, Champion, Autolite) – Often less expensive or available in multi-packs; quality varies by line, but top-tier aftermarket plugs match or exceed OEM specs.
  • High-performance/“racing” iridium plugs – Generally not necessary for a stock Tucson; more expensive and primarily aimed at tuned or modified vehicles.

Choosing an OEM or OEM-equivalent iridium plug is usually the best value for everyday drivers, balancing purchase price, performance, and longevity.

Typical Spark Plug Price Range (Parts Only)

For most 2017 Hyundai Tucson owners, the most relevant question is how much the plugs themselves cost before labor. Prices below reflect current typical ranges from major U.S. and online retailers as of late 2024, though exact figures can vary by region and promotion.

Per-Plug Price Estimates

The next list breaks down rough per-plug price ranges by material and brand category so you can compare what you are likely to see on store shelves or online listings.

  • Standard copper or basic nickel plugs: About $4–$8 per plug (usually not what Hyundai specifies for this model, and not ideal for modern GDI/turbo engines).
  • Platinum plugs (single or double): About $8–$18 per plug, depending on brand and specific design.
  • Iridium plugs (OEM-style): About $12–$25 per plug; most 2017 Tucson owners will fall into this category.
  • Premium or high-performance iridium plugs: Around $20–$35 per plug, sometimes more for specialty lines.

Most 2017 Hyundai Tucsons will use mid- to upper-tier iridium plugs, so realistically, you’re likely to pay somewhere between $12 and $25 per plug if you’re buying quality name-brand parts.

Cost for a Full Set of Spark Plugs

A modern 4-cylinder Tucson uses four spark plugs. The next list estimates what a full set will cost depending on which category you choose.

  • Budget/basic set (not typically recommended): About $16–$32 for four standard plugs.
  • Mid-range platinum set: Roughly $32–$72 for four plugs.
  • OEM or OEM-equivalent iridium set: About $48–$100 for four plugs.
  • Premium high-performance set: Roughly $80–$140 for four plugs.

For most owners aiming to follow Hyundai’s recommendations, the practical expectation is spending roughly $50–$100 for a full set of iridium plugs, depending on brand and where you buy them.

Where to Buy Spark Plugs and How Pricing Differs

Where you purchase spark plugs can be as important as what brand you choose. Identical part numbers can cost significantly more at a dealership than at an online retailer, even when both are genuine or equivalent parts.

Dealership Pricing

Authorized Hyundai dealerships often stock OEM plugs and can quickly confirm the correct part based on your VIN. The downside: higher prices.

The following list outlines what you can expect if you source plugs directly from a Hyundai dealer.

  • Part-only cost per plug: Commonly around $18–$30 each for genuine Hyundai-labeled iridium plugs.
  • Set of four: Typically in the $70–$120 range for parts alone.
  • Advantages: Guaranteed correct part number, warranty compatibility, and updated part supersessions.
  • Disadvantages: Usually the most expensive option compared with buying the same manufacturer’s plug via aftermarket channels.

While dealership pricing is higher, it can offer peace of mind, especially for owners who prefer all parts to be documented as genuine OEM.

Auto Parts Stores (Retail Chains)

Large chain stores such as AutoZone, O’Reilly, NAPA, and Advance Auto Parts typically carry OEM-equivalent plugs for the 2017 Tucson and often have in-store cross-reference tools to ensure fitment.

The list below shows what you might see at these retailers.

  • Per-plug pricing: Usually around $10–$25 for iridium plugs, depending on brand and whether they’re in a value pack.
  • Set pricing: Often $40–$90 for four, sometimes less with promotions or loyalty discounts.
  • Brands commonly available: NGK, Denso, Bosch, Champion, Autolite, sometimes private-label store brands.
  • Extra benefits: Rewards programs, occasional coupons or mail-in rebates, and local staff who can check compatibility.

Big-box parts stores often strike a good balance between price and convenience, especially if you need the plugs the same day and want brand choice.

Online Retailers

Online platforms—Amazon, RockAuto, and other specialty parts sites—frequently offer the lowest prices, though you trade some immediacy for shipping time and must be careful with part numbers.

The following list highlights considerations when buying spark plugs online.

  • Per-plug price: As low as $8–$20 for name-brand iridium plugs when bought in multi-packs or during sales.
  • Set cost: Roughly $35–$80 for four quality plugs, often the best pricing you’ll find.
  • Advantages: Wide selection, user reviews, and the ability to compare OEM and various aftermarket options quickly.
  • Risks: Potential for counterfeit or incorrect parts from third-party sellers; always verify part numbers against Hyundai documentation or a trusted parts catalog.

Online purchasing tends to offer the greatest savings, provided you double-check compatibility using your Tucson’s engine code or VIN and buy from reputable sellers.

Labor Costs If You’re Not Doing It Yourself

While spark plugs themselves are relatively affordable, many drivers factor the full installed cost. Labor rates and shop policies influence how much more you’ll pay beyond parts.

Typical Labor Rates for Spark Plug Replacement

The labor portion of spark plug replacement can vary by region, shop type, and engine accessibility, although the 2017 Tucson is generally not considered a particularly labor-intensive platform for this job.

The following list summarizes typical labor ranges in the U.S. as of late 2024.

  • Independent shops: About $80–$160 total labor for a 4-cylinder Tucson, assuming 0.8–1.5 hours at $80–$120 per hour.
  • Dealership service departments: Commonly $120–$220 in labor, reflecting higher hourly rates.
  • Combined installed cost (parts + labor): Often $150–$350 for a complete spark plug replacement on a 2017 Tucson, depending on plug price and where you go.

Because labor is a large part of the total bill, using higher-quality plugs that last longer can make sense, particularly if you do not plan to perform the work yourself.

Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Considerations

Many Tucson owners choose to replace spark plugs themselves to save money, especially once the car is out of warranty. The job is generally manageable for someone with basic tools and patience.

The next list outlines key things to keep in mind if you are considering DIY replacement.

  • Tools needed: Spark plug socket, ratchet, extension, torque wrench, and possibly a small pick or screwdriver to release coil connectors.
  • Difficulty: Typically moderate; access on a transverse 4-cylinder is decent, but you must be careful with ignition coils and threads.
  • Savings: You’ll pay only for the plugs themselves—around $40–$100—saving the typical $100–$200 labor charge.
  • Risks: Over-tightening or cross-threading plugs can damage the cylinder head, leading to expensive repairs; always follow torque specs and service manual guidance.

For confident DIYers, replacing spark plugs on a 2017 Hyundai Tucson can significantly reduce maintenance costs, but the job must be done carefully to avoid damaging engine components.

How Often Spark Plugs Need Replacement on a 2017 Tucson

The timing of replacement affects how often you incur these costs. Hyundai’s recommended intervals are designed around long-life plugs, but real-world conditions can shorten or extend service life.

Factory Maintenance Interval

Hyundai typically specifies a long interval for the iridium plugs used in the Tucson’s GDI and turbo engines, often around 60,000–100,000 miles (96,000–160,000 km), depending on the exact market and engine. Turbocharged engines may benefit from more frequent inspection.

The following list highlights factors that can alter how soon you should replace them.

  • Driving conditions: Frequent short trips, stop-and-go traffic, and extreme temperatures can accelerate wear.
  • Fuel quality: Poor-quality fuel or contamination can foul plugs earlier than expected.
  • Engine tune or modifications: Tuned or heavily loaded engines (e.g., used for towing in hot climates) may need more frequent plug changes.
  • Symptoms: Misfires, rough idle, hard starting, and reduced fuel economy can all signal it’s time to inspect or replace plugs.

Checking your owner’s manual for the factory interval, then adjusting based on your driving environment and any symptoms, helps ensure you don’t wait too long—and don’t change them unnecessarily early.

How to Identify the Correct Plug and Confirm Pricing

To avoid buying the wrong part or overpaying, it’s useful to know how to identify the correct spark plug for your specific Tucson configuration and match that to current retail prices.

Finding the Correct Part Number

The specific OEM part number is the most reliable way to cross-shop prices across dealers, parts stores, and online retailers.

The next list explains effective ways to find the exact part number for your vehicle.

  • Owner’s manual and maintenance supplement: Often list plug type and may include a recommended brand or part reference.
  • Hyundai dealer parts department: Can look up the plug by VIN to ensure you get the correct superseded part if Hyundai has updated it.
  • Online catalog from NGK, Denso, or Bosch: Enter year, make, model, and engine to see compatible spark plug part numbers.
  • Under-hood labels or service records: Sometimes previous service invoices or stickers specify the exact plug already installed.

Once you have a confirmed part number, you can compare prices confidently across multiple sources without worrying about fitment errors.

Evaluating Price Quotes

After identifying the correct plug, comparing quotes from different suppliers ensures you’re paying a fair price for both parts and labor.

The following list outlines a simple approach for price comparison.

  • Collect at least three quotes: One from a dealer, one from a local independent shop, and one online for parts-only.
  • Separate parts vs. labor: Ask shops to itemize the estimate so you can see plug price versus install cost.
  • Check for added fees: Look for shop supplies, disposal fees, or excessive markup on simple parts.
  • Consider warranty coverage: Dealer-installed OEM plugs may carry a different warranty than DIY-installed parts.

By viewing parts and labor separately and comparing multiple sources, you can decide whether to buy plugs yourself and have them installed, go fully dealer, or have an independent shop supply everything.

Summary

For a 2017 Hyundai Tucson, spark plugs typically cost around $8–$25 per plug for standard or OEM-style iridium options, with a complete set usually totaling about $40–$100 if you purchase them yourself. Premium or high-performance versions can push a full set into the $80–$140 range. Buying from a Hyundai dealer is generally the most expensive parts-only option, while big-box parts stores and online retailers often provide the best deals on OEM-equivalent plugs.

If you add professional installation, the overall bill often lands between $150 and $350, depending on shop type and labor rates. Following Hyundai’s recommended maintenance interval—usually in the 60,000–100,000-mile range for iridium plugs—helps ensure reliable performance and smooth operation, while verifying the correct part number via your VIN or owner’s manual lets you shop confidently across multiple retailers for the best price.

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