Champion Platinum Spark Plug

CHAMP · Part number RC8PYP · NZ$17.00 incl. GST

Right then, for those zippy European and Japanese machines.

Price

NZ$17.00 including GST. Part number RC8PYP.

Fits these vehicles

• Alfa Romeo 147 (2003–2010)
• Alfa Romeo 156 (1997–2002)
• Alfa Romeo 156 (1997–2003)
• Alfa Romeo 156 (1997–2006)
• Alfa Romeo 156 (2000–2005)
• Alfa Romeo 156 (2002–2005)
• Alfa Romeo 156 (2002–2006)
• Alfa Romeo 159 (2005–2011)
• Alfa Romeo 159 (2006–2011)
• Alfa Romeo 164 (1988–1997)
• Alfa Romeo 164 (1992–1998)
• Alfa Romeo 166 (1998–2006)
• Alfa Romeo 166 (1998–2007)
• Alfa Romeo 166 (2000–2007)
• Alfa Romeo 33 (1986–1990)
• Alfa Romeo 33 (1990–1992)
• Alfa Romeo 33 (1990–1992)
• Alfa Romeo 33 (1990–1992)
• Alfa Romeo 33 (1990–1994)
• Alfa Romeo 33 (1990–1994)
• Alfa Romeo 33 (1990–1994)
• Alfa Romeo 33 (1990–1994)
• Alfa Romeo 33 (1990–1994)
• Alfa Romeo 33 (1990–1994)
• Alfa Romeo Brera (2006–2011)
• Alfa Romeo GT (2003–2010)
• Alfa Romeo Gtv (1996–2000)
• Alfa Romeo Gtv (2000–2005)
• Alfa Romeo Gtv (2003–2005)
• Alfa Romeo Spider (1994–2005)
• Alfa Romeo Spider (1999–2003)
• Alfa Romeo Spider (2003–2005)
• Alfa Romeo Spider (2006–2011)
• Alfa Romeo Sprint (1985–1989)
• Audi 100 (1991–1994)
• Audi A3 (1996–2003)
• Audi A3 (1996–2003)
• Audi A3 (1998–2003)
• Audi A3 (1999–2002)
• Audi A3 (2004–2012)

Description

Spark Plugs: Give Your Engine That Fresh Fizz, Kiwi Style!
> Ever feel like your trusty chariot's lost a bit of its grunt? Those spark plugs are likely the culprits, mate. They're the little legends that fire up your engine, and when they're knackered – think worn electrodes, gunked-up bits, or dodgy insulation – you'll notice misfires, a rough idle, and your engine just not feeling its best. This is especially true for the high-performance beasts like your Alfa Romeo GTV V6 24V, Audi TT Turbo, or that smooth Lexus LS 400, where every spark counts for that sweet, seamless power delivery.

Symptoms That Led You Here
• Engine misfires or stuttering under acceleration
• Rough or lumpy idle, especially when cold
• Noticeable drop in fuel economy
• Check engine light illuminated (often P0300-P0312 misfire codes)
• Difficulty starting, particularly in damp NZ winter conditions
• Sluggish throttle response in your turbo or high-revving V6

Will it pass WOF?
Spark plugs themselves aren't a direct WOF inspection item, but the symptoms of worn plugs—excessive emissions, rough running, and illuminated warning lights—can cause your vehicle to fail emissions testing or the visual inspection. Keeping ignition components in good order ensures your European sports coupe or Japanese tourer sails through its Warrant of Fitness.

DIY or Workshop?
Difficulty: 4/10 (inline-4 engines) to 7/10 (V6 configurations like the Alfa GTV or Lexus LS 400 where access is restricted)

Estimated Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on engine layout

Tools Required:
• Spark plug socket (16mm or 21mm depending on application)
• Torque wrench (critical for aluminium heads common in these vehicles)
• Extension bars and universal joint for awkward angles
• Anti-seize compound and dielectric grease
• Gap gauge (if plugs aren't pre-gapped)

Expert Recommendation
Bob and the CARFIX team recommend replacing spark plugs at manufacturer intervals—typically 30,000-60,000km for copper/nickel plugs, or up to 100,000km for iridium/platinum variants. For the performance engines in this fitment range, from the twin-cam Alfa V6 to the turbocharged Audi and Saab units, fresh plugs restore that crisp throttle response and eliminate those frustrating cold-start hesitations common in our humid NZ climate. Bob @ CARFIX is always on hand to help you work out exactly what plug grade and heat range suits your European GT or Japanese performance machine. Make sure you head over to Bob's Shop for a chat!

Fitment Notes
• This plug suits a wide range of European performance vehicles (Alfa Romeo GTV V6 24V, Audi TT, Skoda Superb TSI, Saab 9-3 Turbo) and Japanese models (Lexus LS 400, Toyota Soarer Turbo, Nissan Avenir)
• V6 and boxer engine configurations may require intake manifold removal for rear bank access
• Turbocharged applications (Audi TT, Saab 9-3, Toyota Soarer Turbo) may specify colder heat range—verify against your service manual
• Always check electrode gap specification for your specific engine variant
• 174+ additional fitments available—contact Bob for confirmation on your specific vehicle

---

🛠️ Bob's Pro Tip: Do the Job Right!
> If you're replacing this spark plug, make sure you've got the right workshop prep, protection, and safety gear ready. Taking a bit of extra time and using the proper safety stands and cleaners makes all the difference for a professional result!

🧰 What Else You'll Need:
• Safety First: Always secure your vehicle on heavy-duty safety jack stands before working underneath. Never rely solely on a hydraulic jack.
• Clean Hands: Keep a pack of Nitrile Gloves handy to protect your skin from grease, oils, and chemical sprays.
• Preparation: Have microfibre towels and a suitable parts cleaner nearby to keep components clean during installation.