When to Replace Spark Plugs in Porsche 992 Carrera
Replace spark plugs in your 2020 Porsche 992 Carrera every 40,000 miles or every 4 years. Whichever comes first. Porsche recommends this interval for the 3.0-liter twin-turbo flat-six engine. It uses iridium plugs designed for high performance. Follow this schedule to avoid misfires and power loss.
Your owner's manual lists the exact timing. It factors in track use or city driving. Most 992 owners change plugs at 40,000 miles. Skip it, and fuel economy falls 10-20%. Engine damage can cost $3,000 or more to fix.
Spot Warning Signs Early
Watch for these signs of worn plugs:
- Rough idle. The engine shakes at stops.
- Slow acceleration. Power lags on highways.
- Misfires. Power cuts during boosts.
- High fuel use. MPG drops below 20 combined.
- Hard starts. Engine cranks longer in the morning.
Stop driving and check plugs if you see these. Tow the car if symptoms get worse. A full set often fails near 40,000 miles.
Porsche Spark Plug Facts
The 992 Carrera needs 6 iridium plugs. NGK or Bosch brands fit best. Each lasts 40,000 miles in Porsches. Copper plugs wear out at 20,000 miles. Match OEM specs. Set the gap to 0.031 inches.
| Plug Type | Lifespan in 992 | Cost per Plug |
|---|---|---|
| Iridium | 40,000 miles | $30-$60 |
| Platinum | 30,000 miles | $20-$40 |
| Copper | 20,000 miles | $10-$20 |
A full set costs $200-$400. Shops add labor.
Steps to Replace Spark Plugs
Porsche engines pack plugs in tight spots. DIY works if you have tools. Shops do it safer.
- Park on flat ground. Let the engine cool 2 hours.
- Remove coil packs with a 14mm socket.
- Gap new plugs. Torque to 22 ft-lbs.
- Clear error codes with an OBD scanner.
- Test drive for 20 miles.
Porsche dealers charge $400-$700 for labor. Independent shops cost $200 less. Total job hits $600-$1,200. Time it with an oil change to cut trips.
Tips to Extend Plug Life
- Run 93-octane gas only.
- Fix leaks or sensors fast.
- Warm up the engine before hard pulls.
- Service every 10,000 miles.
Track days cut life to 30,000 miles. City stop-and-go does the same.
Sidekick tracks your 992's mileage and reminds you for spark plug changes. Stay on top of it.

