7 Best Spark Plugs for the 2012 Dodge Ram Hemi — Expert Picks & Installation Tips

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If you’re shopping for spark plugs for a 2012 Ram 1500 5.7L HEMI (often searched as a 2012 Dodge Ram HEMI), fitment matters more than marketing claims. The 5.7L HEMI uses 16 spark plugs, and the 2012 Ram owner documentation lists the factory plug as LZFR5C-11 with a 0.043-inch gap. Below are five relevant plug or complete ignition-kit options, plus the fitment and installation details you should verify before ordering.

Key Takeaways

• A complete 2012 5.7L HEMI spark-plug service requires 16 plugs—two per cylinder.
• The 2012 Ram owner documentation lists LZFR5C-11 plugs with a 0.043-inch (1.1 mm) gap for the 5.7L engine.
• The factory service specification is 13 lb-ft (18 N·m) for spark plugs, with a stated maximum of 15 lb-ft.
• Do not assume a coil-and-plug kit is correct just because it mentions “Ram.” Confirm the 5.7L V8, model year, plug quantity, and part references before buying.
• For plated spark plugs such as NGK designs, avoid anti-seize unless the plug manufacturer specifically instructs you to use it; lubrication can change applied torque.

Quick Comparison

Autoexact Ignition Coils and Iridium Spark Plugs for 5.7L HEMI

If you want to replace worn coils and spark plugs at the same time, this Autoexact kit is a more complete match than the original article described. The current listing identifies the package as 8 ignition coils plus 16 iridium spark plugs, with Ram 1500 5.7L fitment that includes the 2012 model year. That makes it a practical option when you have confirmed ignition-component wear and prefer to source the full set together.

Best For: 2012 Ram 1500 5.7L HEMI owners who need a complete coil-and-plug service kit rather than spark plugs alone.

Pros:

• Includes the full service quantity: 8 coils and 16 spark plugs.
• Listing fitment includes the 2012 Ram 1500 5.7L HEMI.
• Buying coils and plugs together can simplify parts sourcing when both are due for replacement.

Cons:

• It is more equipment than you need if your ignition coils are still healthy.
• Do not use the kit’s generic installation claims in place of the 2012 Ram service torque specification.
• Verify the exact plug design and vehicle fitment before installation, especially if your truck has non-stock ignition parts.

NPAUTO Ignition Coils and Spark Plugs for 5.7L HEMI

This NPAUTO bundle is another complete ignition-service option. The product listing states that the package contains 8 ignition coils and 16 pre-gapped spark plugs and includes 2011–2020 Ram 1500 5.7L applications. It is most useful when diagnosis points to worn coils as well as worn plugs; replacing good coils simply because you are changing plugs adds unnecessary cost.

Best For: Drivers who have confirmed coil-related ignition problems and want one package containing all eight coils plus all 16 plugs.

Pros:

• Full 8-coil and 16-plug quantity for the 5.7L HEMI ignition system.
• Listing fitment covers the 2012 Ram 1500 5.7L application.
• Useful for a complete ignition refresh when both coils and plugs are actually needed.

Cons:

• More expensive and more extensive than a plug-only service.
• “Pre-gapped” does not mean you should skip checking the gap against the vehicle and plug specifications.
• A coil-and-plug kit will not fix misfires caused by fuel delivery, compression, wiring, vacuum leaks, or other non-ignition faults.

Champion Copper Plus Spark Plugs for Ram 1500 5.7L HEMI V8 (2011-2024), 16 pc

For buyers who need spark plugs only, this Champion Copper Plus 16-piece set is a simpler option than a full coil kit. Current fitment listings identify the set for Ram 1500 5.7L V8 applications including 2012. Champion Copper Plus plugs use a copper-core center electrode with a nickel-alloy ground electrode, so this is not an iridium upgrade and should not be described as a precious-metal plug set.

Best For: 2012 Ram 1500 5.7L HEMI owners who want a complete 16-plug set without replacing ignition coils.

Pros:

• Full 16-plug quantity for the dual-plug 5.7L HEMI.
• Champion is an established ignition-parts brand.
• A plug-only set avoids paying for coils when your existing coils test good.

Cons:

• Copper/nickel plugs generally prioritize conventional replacement value rather than the longer-wear positioning of fine-wire iridium designs.
• Do not assume every later-model fitment specification is identical to the 2012 factory specification.
• Verify the exact Champion part number, gap, and application before installation.

Set of 8 Ignition Coils and 16 Iridium Spark Plugs Compatible with Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler 5.7L V8

This listing is presented as a complete 8-coil and 16-iridium-plug kit for 5.7L HEMI applications. That package quantity is appropriate for a full 5.7L HEMI ignition refresh, but reliable current third-party listing details for this exact ASIN were not available during verification. Treat the compatibility statements on the live Amazon page as the deciding source and confirm that your 2012 Ram 1500 5.7L is explicitly listed before ordering.

Best For: Buyers who want a complete coil-and-iridium-plug kit and are willing to verify exact live-listing fitment before purchase.

Pros:

• The stated package quantity—8 coils plus 16 plugs—matches the complete 5.7L HEMI ignition layout.
• Combines coils and spark plugs in one purchase.
• Iridium plug construction may offer good wear resistance when the exact plug is approved for the application.

Cons:

• Exact current fitment details for this ASIN could not be independently verified.
• Replacing coils is unnecessary if testing shows your existing coils are healthy.
• Do not rely on generic performance promises such as guaranteed horsepower or fuel-economy gains.

BDFHYK Iridium Spark Plugs Compatible with Ram 1500 (2011–2021) — Set of 16

The BDFHYK set is a 16-piece iridium plug-only option. The manufacturer lists it for 2011–2021 Ram 1500 5.7L V8 applications using reference 4024123628. Because aftermarket catalog references do not replace the vehicle’s factory service information, confirm your VIN/application and the live product details before installation.

Best For: Buyers who want a 16-plug iridium set without purchasing replacement ignition coils.

Pros:

• Includes all 16 plugs required for a complete 5.7L HEMI spark-plug service.
• Manufacturer fitment specifically includes 2011–2021 Ram 1500 5.7L V8 applications.
• Fine-wire iridium center electrodes are designed for stable ignition and wear resistance.

Cons:

• BDFHYK has less brand recognition than long-established OE ignition suppliers.
• Aftermarket fitment references should be checked against your exact truck before installation.
• Do not extend the truck’s maintenance interval solely because the plug uses iridium.

Before You Buy

• Confirm the engine: this article is for the 2012 Ram 1500 with the 5.7L HEMI V8.
• Confirm quantity: a complete spark-plug service requires 16 plugs.
• Check the live fitment tool: use your year, make, model, engine, and VIN where available.
• Match the plug specification: the 2012 owner documentation lists LZFR5C-11 at a 0.043-inch gap; verify any aftermarket cross-reference before installing it.
• Do not replace coils without a reason: if the coils test properly and you have no coil-related fault, a 16-plug set may be the more economical choice.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Spark Plugs For 2012 Dodge Ram Hemi

For a 2012 Ram 1500 5.7L HEMI, start with correct fitment and factory specifications rather than choosing a plug solely by electrode material. The right thread, reach, seat design, heat range, gap, and quantity matter more than broad claims about extra horsepower or fuel economy.

Heat Range Selection

Use the OE-equivalent heat range for a stock 2012 5.7L HEMI unless a qualified tuner, engine builder, or the plug manufacturer specifies a different range for a modified setup. Towing by itself is not a good reason to install a colder plug. A plug that is too cold can foul, while one that runs too hot can increase the risk of pre-ignition. Heat-range numbering also varies by manufacturer, so do not compare numbers across brands as if they use one universal scale.

Electrode Material Type

Copper/nickel, platinum, and iridium designs each have tradeoffs. Fine-wire iridium plugs are commonly chosen for wear resistance and reliable spark performance, while conventional copper-core designs can be cost-effective replacements. For this truck, however, the material should come after verified application fitment. Do not assume an iridium plug is automatically correct just because it is marketed as an upgrade.

Gap and Fitment

The 2012 Ram owner documentation lists LZFR5C-11 for the 5.7L engine with a 0.043-inch (1.1 mm) gap. Check the gap carefully with an appropriate gauge and follow the specific plug manufacturer’s handling instructions, especially with fine-wire electrodes. Confirm thread size, reach, seat type, and application before installation; a plug that physically threads in is not automatically the correct plug.

Longevity and Mileage

The 2012 Ram maintenance chart calls for replacing the 3.7L and 5.7L spark plugs at 32,000-mile intervals in the published schedule. Do not automatically extend that interval just because an aftermarket plug uses iridium or another premium electrode material. If you are using an approved alternative plug, follow the vehicle and plug manufacturer’s guidance and inspect sooner if you develop a misfire, rough idle, hard starting, or other ignition symptoms.

Engine Performance Impact

Fresh, correctly specified plugs can restore normal ignition quality when worn plugs are causing misfires, hesitation, rough idle, or difficult starting. They should not be marketed as a guaranteed horsepower or fuel-economy upgrade on an otherwise healthy stock engine. If symptoms remain after a plug service, diagnose coils, wiring, injectors, air leaks, compression, and other possible causes rather than continuing to replace ignition parts.

Installation and Torque

Install plugs on a cool engine and start each plug by hand to reduce the risk of cross-threading the aluminum cylinder head. The 2012 service specification calls for 13 lb-ft (18 N·m), with a stated maximum of 15 lb-ft. Use a torque wrench. For plated NGK plugs, the manufacturer says to install them dry without anti-seize because lubricant changes the effective torque. If another plug manufacturer gives different thread-preparation instructions for its specific product, follow that manufacturer’s guidance while respecting the vehicle’s torque requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Spark Plugs Does a 2012 5.7 HEMI Use?

The 5.7L HEMI uses 16 spark plugs, two per cylinder. A plug-only kit should therefore contain 16 correctly matched plugs for a complete service.

What Spark Plug Gap Does the 2012 5.7 HEMI Use?

The 2012 Ram owner documentation lists 0.043 inch (1.1 mm) for the 5.7L engine with the listed LZFR5C-11 plug. Verify any aftermarket cross-reference before changing that specification.

What Is the Spark Plug Torque for a 2012 5.7 HEMI?

The service information specifies 13 lb-ft (18 N·m), with a tolerance of about ±2 lb-ft and a warning not to exceed 15 lb-ft.

Should I Use Anti-Seize on 2012 HEMI Spark Plugs?

Do not apply anti-seize automatically. NGK specifically advises installing its plated spark plugs dry because anti-seize can alter torque and increase the risk of over-tightening. Follow the instructions for the exact plug you buy.

How Often Should 2012 5.7 HEMI Spark Plugs Be Replaced?

The 2012 Ram maintenance chart schedules spark-plug replacement for the 5.7L engine at 32,000-mile intervals. Check your complete owner/service documentation and the instructions for any approved replacement plug you install.

Conclusion

For a 2012 Ram 1500 5.7L HEMI, start by deciding whether you need plugs only or a complete coil-and-plug kit. The Champion and BDFHYK sets provide 16 plugs without forcing you to replace healthy coils, while the Autoexact and NPAUTO kits make more sense when coil replacement is also justified. Whichever option you choose, verify exact live fitment, use the correct 16-plug quantity, check the 0.043-inch factory gap reference, and torque the plugs to the 2012 service specification rather than relying on generic listing instructions.