Replacement Spark Plugs for MINI Cooper R56 Hatchback/Hardtop (2007-2013)
What's the Difference in Aftermarket, OEM and Modified Spark Plugs?
There are many benefits to using OEM spark plugs, including:
- Longer service life
- Greater spark plug efficiency
- Greater energy with ignition sparks
- Higher wear resistance
- Better resistance to chemicals in the combustion chamber
- Greater resistance to material erosion
- Perfect flame dispersion front on all sides
HOWEVER....often time, aftermarket plugs are from the same manufacturer as the OEM (Factory Original Replacement part), they just don't carry the MINI Cooper official brand. (This is specially true with Mini Mania's Aftermarket Spark Plugs.)
Spark Plugs for Modified Minis are those with upgraded turbos or ECU tuning.
Either way... we promise you're getting the best MINI Cooper Spark Plugs for sale on the market.
Replacement and Torque
Spark plug technology has come a long ways and the modern plugs last a lot longer than in the past. However, they DO wear down and can impact your engine's efficiency.
The factory might recommend a 100,000 mile interval for replacements but most MINI owners replace them much sooner. Since a worn spark plug can affect your fuel efficiency, we recommend you inspect them regularly and replace when they start to show signs of wear.
ALWAYS torque the spark plugs to the proper torque setting:
- 23 +3 Nm or 17+2 ft-lb for Gen 2 MINIs (R55 R56 R57 R58 R59 R60 R61)
Sockets
All R-Type Mini Coopers (Non-S, Cooper S and JCW) models from 2007 through 2016* have spark plugs located at the bottom of a deep well - this requires special 'extended' spark plug sockets. The spark plugs are Bi-Hex so a standard hex socket will not work.
Take a look at the Spark Plug Socket we have below to see what you will need. We also recommend the use of 'locking extensions' so the socket does not get stuck on the plugs.
* Does not include F-Series models.