Optimum Mileage Interval for Spark plug changes on V8 B6/B7, 55K mi seems too long.

[WileyBrill]

Since it is understood that the 10K mi intervals for oil/filter changes, (per AUDI), is too long and probably, the 20K mi interval for air filter changes is too long, we are you all doing about spark plug intervals? Audi says: 55K mi, but considering the mis-fire issues, (and the resulting expenses), is 25-30K mi, what we really should be changing at? Comments Please, experiences, please...

[KAL]

wish the V8 forum was busier there are some really interesting and valid questions on here

[M|R]

Just stumbled across this...

Im replacing my OEM plugs this weekend. I have a slight misfire at low rpms with constant speed. An example would be in first when just creeping along in traffic, say 10mph. Also second gear in the same scenario but after that I dont seem to have an issue, never misfiring under WOT though. Going to replace plugs this weekend, I am at 52.5k. Also going to have the coil pack recall completed by Audi in the next week or so. Hopefully this solves the issue.

I will make sure to take pics of the plugs and I will update this thread with them to show how they are fairing after 52.5k.

I personally think 55k is an ok interval since we run multi electrode plugs and they are designed for longevity over standard plugs. A lot of people on this board seem to change them out at 50k with mixed reviews. Ive seen plugs from these cars look absolutely terrible after 46k yet look pretty decent at 70k+. I personally would say 50k-55k is a good number.

[4xtaco]

I think this will be more dependent on the type of plugs and how you drive... I have new plugs ready to go in mine. Just waiting for it to warm up really and the car is not running rough or idling rough at all.

[Mulfomi]

I replaced my plugs at 50,000 miles and they were in tough shape. I wont go longer than that now.

[NavajoS5]

hey I bought my S5 V8 in March this year, how do I know if the coil pack recall was already completed?

[WileyBrill]

Update - at 135K mi. I made a change of spark plugs, based on in-depth phone call with NGK in MI. I have kept the OEM plugs the Audi factory put in my vehicle, (Nickle by the way, masquerading as platinum...) Knock on wood, it appears the performance is "cleaner" with "real platinum tipped" 4-prong plugs by NGK. Mileage is improved, exhaust is cleaner, (less soot/black) - so though I still plan on changing at 30K mi intervals - the "real deal platinum NGK" plugs - are the way to go, I think...

[WileyBrill]

Update - at 135K mi. I made a change of spark plugs, based on in-depth phone call with NGK in MI. I have kept the OEM plugs the Audi factory put in my vehicle, (Nickle by the way, masquerading as platinum...) Knock on wood, it appears the performance is "cleaner" with "real platinum tipped" 4-prong plugs by NGK. Mileage is improved, exhaust is cleaner, (less soot/black) - so though I still plan on changing at 30K mi intervals - the "real deal platinum NGK" plugs - are the way to go, I think...

This is a clarification update: Mark Kent, is the real deal guy at NGK/Niterra in MI. I mis-understood something that, today, he made very clear.
NGK BKR6EQUP - is the real deal plug for the 4.2 V8, a four (4) "ground straps" plug that is Platinum center tip and has Nickle ground straps, aka "prongs". My mistake, was I thought the ground straps were Platinum as well - I misunderstood, the first he/I communicated - my bad... The Audi factory, put in BKR6EQUA, which have a Nickel center tip...

WB