What Kind of Spark Plugs Are in a 2016 Hyundai Tucson?

The 2016 Hyundai Tucson typically uses OEM iridium-tipped spark plugs from NGK or Denso, with the exact type depending on the engine (2.0L or 1.6L turbo) and trim. In most cases, they are long‑life iridium plugs designed for extended service intervals, and replacement should match the original heat range and specifications listed in the owner’s manual or on the under‑hood emissions label.

Understanding the 2016 Hyundai Tucson Engine Options

The kind of spark plug your 2016 Hyundai Tucson uses is tied directly to which engine is under the hood. Hyundai sold this model year with two primary gasoline engines in North America and several additional options in other markets, each calibrated for different performance and efficiency targets. Those differences drive which spark plug type, thread size, and heat range the factory specifies.

Main North American Engines

To clarify which spark plugs are likely in your Tucson, it helps to identify the engine first. Each engine family tends to use its own spark plug specification, even when displacement is similar across trims or markets.

• 2.0L GDI inline‑4 (Nu engine, non‑turbo, U.S./Canada): Used primarily in base trims. This engine is typically factory‑equipped with iridium spark plugs designed for efficiency and durability.
• 1.6L T‑GDI inline‑4 (Gamma turbo, U.S./Canada): Found in Eco, Sport, and Limited turbo models, it uses high‑ignitability iridium plugs that withstand higher combustion pressures and temperatures.
• Other global variants (e.g., 1.7L or 2.0L CRDi diesels, 1.6L GDI non‑turbo): In Europe, Asia, and other markets, diesel Tucsons use glow plugs (not spark plugs), while some gasoline variants still rely on iridium‑ or platinum‑type spark plugs similar to North American models.

By identifying your engine from the owner’s manual, VIN information, or under‑hood labels, you can quickly narrow down which spark plug type and part number applies to your 2016 Tucson.

Factory Spark Plug Types by Engine

The 2016 Tucson’s gasoline engines are engineered around long‑life, fine‑wire plugs, usually iridium‑tipped. While exact OEM part numbers can differ by region and production run, Hyundai’s approved plug types follow consistent patterns in construction, heat range, and service life.

2.0L GDI Nu Engine (Non‑Turbo)

For the naturally aspirated 2.0L GDI engine, Hyundai specifies iridium plugs that balance fuel economy, stable idle, and reduced emissions. These plugs are built to last well beyond traditional copper plugs while maintaining consistent spark performance.

• Type: Iridium spark plugs (fine‑wire center electrode)
• Typical OEM brands: NGK or Denso (Hyundai usually sources from these suppliers)
• Service life target: Often in the 90,000–105,000 mile (approximately 145,000–170,000 km) range under normal conditions, though exact intervals are specified in the maintenance schedule
• Gap: Pre‑gapped at the factory to Hyundai’s specification; generally not adjusted unless a manufacturer or service bulletin specifies otherwise
• Design intent: Reliable cold starts, smooth idle, and compatible with direct‑injection combustion characteristics

While the precise OEM part number can vary by market and calibration, any replacement should be an iridium plug that matches the factory heat range, reach, and thread dimensions listed in the Hyundai documentation for the 2.0L GDI engine.

1.6L T‑GDI Turbo Engine

The 1.6L turbocharged engine places more stress on ignition components, so Hyundai pairs it with high‑performance iridium plugs tuned for higher combustion pressures and hotter operating conditions. Choosing the correct type is especially important for turbo reliability and knock control.

• Type: Iridium spark plugs with a fine‑wire center electrode and robust ground strap
• Typical OEM brands: NGK or Denso, calibrated specifically for turbocharged direct‑injection use
• Service life target: Similar extended interval (often 90,000–105,000 miles) under normal driving, but real‑world replacement can be sooner on aggressively driven or heavily loaded vehicles
• Gap and heat range: Factory‑set gap and heat range intended to prevent pre‑ignition and misfire under boost
• Design intent: Strong spark stability at high cylinder pressure, support for precise ignition timing, and compatibility with engine knock control strategies

Because turbo engines are particularly sensitive to plug condition and specification, owners are strongly advised to use plugs that meet or exceed Hyundai’s OE specification rather than generic “fits‑many” substitutes.

Diesel Variants (Global Markets)

In markets where the 2016 Tucson is sold with diesel engines, such as the 1.7L or 2.0L CRDi, the ignition system is fundamentally different. These engines rely on compression ignition and therefore use glow plugs rather than spark plugs.

• Component type: Glow plugs, not spark plugs
• Function: Assist in cold starting by heating the combustion chamber, especially in low‑temperature climates
• Brands and specifications: Typically supplied by manufacturers such as Bosch, Denso, or NGK, with Hyundai‑specific part numbers
• Service intervals: Generally longer than gasoline spark plugs, replaced based on starting performance or diagnostic trouble codes

Owners of diesel Tucsons should refer to their regional owner’s manual or dealer documentation, as the maintenance requirements and part types differ substantially from gasoline models.

How to Confirm the Correct Spark Plug for Your Tucson

Even within a single model year, production changes, market differences, and mid‑cycle updates can alter exact part numbers. Verifying your Tucson’s specific requirement ensures you avoid misfires, poor performance, or potential engine damage linked to incorrect plugs.

Steps to Identify Your Exact Plug Specification

The following steps help you confirm the precise plug type that belongs in your 2016 Hyundai Tucson, regardless of engine or market. They combine official documentation with visual and electronic checks.

1. Check the owner’s manual: Look in the “Specifications” or “Maintenance” section. Hyundai usually lists spark plug type, often including a sample part number or an approved specification range.
2. Inspect the under‑hood emissions or tune‑up label: Many vehicles carry a small label near the radiator support or underside of the hood that spells out spark plug type and gap.
3. Consult a Hyundai dealer parts department: Provide your VIN so the parts system can identify the exact OEM plug number originally specified for your Tucson.
4. Use reputable online catalogs: Sites from major plug manufacturers (NGK, Denso, Bosch, Champion) allow VIN or year/make/model lookup to provide cross‑referenced part numbers matching OE spec.
5. Visually inspect an existing plug (if already removed): The side of the metal shell typically bears the manufacturer and part code. Cross‑reference that code against the manufacturer’s catalog to confirm type.

By combining these sources—manual, labels, VIN‑based lookup, and plug markings—you can confidently select a replacement plug that genuinely matches the original engineering intent for your engine.

Replacement Considerations and Best Practices

Once you know which spark plug type your 2016 Tucson uses, correct installation and maintenance timing are crucial. Proper torque, gap, and plug quality can directly affect fuel economy, starting reliability, and long‑term engine health.

Choosing Replacement Spark Plugs

There are several practical guidelines to follow when choosing replacement spark plugs for a 2016 Tucson. These help balance cost, performance, and longevity while staying aligned with Hyundai’s requirements.

• Match the original material: If the vehicle came with iridium plugs, replacing with iridium (not copper) preserves the designed service interval and ignition performance.
• Stay within the specified heat range: Avoid “hotter” or “colder” plugs unless you have explicit tuning or engineering guidance; incorrect heat range can lead to fouling or pre‑ignition.
• Use trusted brands: NGK and Denso are common OEM suppliers for Hyundai; Bosch and Champion offer equivalents but should be cross‑referenced carefully.
• Be cautious with performance plugs: “Racing” or multi‑electrode plugs rarely offer benefits on a stock engine and may conflict with ECU calibration or emissions controls.
• Verify pre‑gapped settings: Most iridium plugs for modern Hyundais are sold pre‑gapped; check gap with a feeler gauge but avoid prying the fine‑wire electrode unless the manufacturer explicitly allows it.

Focusing on OEM‑equivalent iridium plugs with the correct heat range and dimensions ensures that your Tucson maintains the drivability and reliability designed by Hyundai engineers.

Installation and Service Interval

Correct installation is as important as choosing the right plug. Mishandling, incorrect torque, or poor sealing can introduce new problems, from misfires to damaged threads in the aluminum cylinder head.

• Follow torque specifications: Use a torque wrench and set it to Hyundai’s specified value to avoid over‑tightening (which can strip threads) or under‑tightening (which can cause blow‑by and poor heat transfer).
• Work with a cool engine: Install plugs only when the engine is fully cooled to reduce the risk of cross‑threading the aluminum head.
• Use anti‑seize sparingly—if at all: Many plug makers advise against anti‑seize on modern plated plugs, as it can alter torque readings; check the plug manufacturer’s guidance.
• Replace ignition coils or boots as needed: On higher‑mileage Tucsons, worn coil boots or coils can cause misfires even with new plugs; visually inspect for cracks, oil intrusion, or carbon tracking.
• Observe the recommended interval: Consult the maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual; for long‑life iridium plugs, replacement is often around 90,000–105,000 miles, but earlier replacement can be wise if misfires, rough idle, or poor fuel economy develop.

Taking a methodical approach to plug replacement—cool engine, correct torque, and attention to surrounding components—helps ensure that the new plugs deliver their full service life without introducing new issues.

Why Spark Plug Type Matters for the 2016 Tucson

The 2016 Hyundai Tucson’s engines rely on precise fuel and ignition control to meet modern emissions and efficiency standards. Using the correct spark plugs supports that precision and can make a noticeable difference in how the vehicle drives, especially under load or in extreme weather.

Impact on Performance and Efficiency

The choice of spark plug affects more than just whether the engine will start. In a direct‑injection gasoline engine—or a turbocharged version—spark behavior influences combustion quality at every operating point.

• Combustion stability: Correct plugs help reduce misfires and incomplete combustion, which can otherwise trigger warning lights and damage catalytic converters.
• Fuel economy: Efficient ignition timing and complete burn contribute to better mileage, particularly on highway and mixed driving cycles.
• Throttle response: In turbo models, consistent spark under boost supports smoother acceleration and reduces hesitation or surging.
• Emissions compliance: The ECU calibration relies on predictable ignition; incorrect plugs can affect NOx, HC, and CO output, potentially leading to inspection failures in regulated regions.
• Longevity of other components: Persistent misfires from incorrect or worn plugs can stress ignition coils, catalytic converters, and even engine internals.

By installing spark plugs that match Hyundai’s original specification—particularly iridium types with the correct heat range—you help preserve the Tucson’s factory‑designed balance of power, economy, and emissions control.

Summary

The 2016 Hyundai Tucson is factory‑equipped, in its gasoline versions, with long‑life iridium spark plugs supplied by companies such as NGK or Denso, with exact specifications determined by engine type—2.0L GDI non‑turbo or 1.6L T‑GDI turbo. Diesel variants use glow plugs instead of spark plugs. To identify the precise plug in your Tucson, confirm your engine type, then consult the owner’s manual, under‑hood labels, or a VIN‑based dealer parts lookup, and replace only with OEM‑equivalent iridium plugs matching the factory heat range, reach, and gap. Proper selection and installation help maintain starting reliability, performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions compliance throughout the vehicle’s service life.

How much are spark plugs for a 2016 Hyundai Tucson?

The range of prices of Spark Plugs for the 2016 Hyundai Tucson goes from $6.99 up to $24.99 for the most premium parts.

How many spark plugs does a 2016 Hyundai Tucson have?

For optimal performance, replace with high ignitability spark plugs. Gap 0.044″. Quantity per car: 4.

What year to stay away from Hyundai Tucson?

The Hyundai Tucson years to avoid include 2011, 2012, 2015, 2016, and 2017, primarily due to engine, transmission, and electrical system issues. Common problems reported in these years include engine stalling, oil leaks, premature engine and transmission failure, and faulty dual-clutch gearboxes. 
This video explains common problems with the Hyundai Tucson, including engine and transmission issues: 1mEveryman DriverYouTube · Feb 26, 2023
Years to avoid and common problems

• 2011-2012: Both years are cited for engine problems like stalling, oil leaks, and premature failure. Transmission issues, electrical problems, and faulty interior components have also been reported. 
• 2015-2017: These model years are frequently mentioned for a range of issues. 
  • 2015-2016: Engine and transmission problems were prevalent. 
  • 2016-2017: The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission is a major concern, with complaints of jerking, delays, and other drivetrain issues that can start at low mileage. 
• 2011-2018: Some sources group the years from 2011 to 2018, with the exception of 2013, as less reliable due to a variety of issues, including engine problems, poor acceleration, and transmission trouble. 

You can watch this video to learn about specific issues in the 2016 model, such as its dual-clutch transmission problems: 42sCar ComfyYouTube · Jul 9, 2025
What to look for in other years

• If considering an older model, the 2008 and 2009 model years are sometimes cited as being more reliable. 
• For newer models, the 2019, 2020, 2022, and 2023 model years are generally considered more reliable, with some issues addressed through recalls or service bulletins. 

When should I replace my spark plugs Hyundai Tucson?

You should consider changing your spark plugs roughly every 30,000 miles. However, you may want to change your spark plugs before then if you notice they aren’t working effectively.