NGK 97138 Spark Plug

NGK Iridium IX Spark Plug for Honda and Acura

NGK Iridium IX Spark Plug 97138 is built for drivers who want precise ignition performance and OE-level fitment across a wide range of Honda and Acura applications. With an iridium center electrode, copper core, and 5,000 ohm resistance, this plug is engineered for stable spark delivery and consistent combustion.

The NGK Iridium IX Spark Plug line focuses on fine-wire iridium construction and dependable ignition characteristics for everyday driving, commuting, and maintenance replacement on vehicles such as the Honda Civic, Honda CR-V, and Acura TL.

Key Features

• Iridium center electrode tip material for durable spark performance
• Copper center electrode core material for efficient heat transfer
• Nickel ground electrode core material with standard ground configuration
• Taper-cut ground electrode tip design for focused ignition
• Pre-gapped at .044 inches for many listed applications; some vehicles require adjustment
• 14 mm thread diameter, .75 reach, flat seat, and 5/8 hex size
• Manufacturer heat range 6 with non-removable nut terminal type
• Part number 97138 / ZFR6AIX-11S

Detailed Description

NGK 97138 is an Iridium IX spark plug designed around a 14 mm thread, .75 reach, flat seat, and a .044-inch pre-gap. The iridium tip supports consistent ignition at the plug gap, while the copper core and nickel ground electrode help manage heat and durability in daily-use engines. This makes it a practical replacement choice for Honda Accord, Honda Civic, Honda Element, Honda CR-V, Acura TSX, Acura TL, and other listed applications.

For fitment-based searches, this part is commonly selected as a spark plug replacement for 2002-2011 Honda Civic, 2002-2009 Honda CR-V, 2003-2011 Honda Element, and 2004-2008 Acura TSX. It also applies to 2007-2014 Honda Fit and several Acura V6 models, including MDX, RL, and TL. Part number 97138 appears in OE-style replacement searches for these vehicles.

This part cross-references NGK 97138 for the same application.

What It Helps Address

• Hard starting caused by worn spark plug electrodes
• Rough idle from inconsistent ignition output
• Misfire conditions related to plug wear or incorrect gap
• Reduced throttle response from degraded spark quality
• Maintenance replacement needs on Honda and Acura ignition systems

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify the correct gap before installation. Several listed applications require adjustment to .044 inches, while 2007-2014 Honda Fit applications note a .052-inch gap and 2003-2007 Honda Accord applications vary by emissions calibration. Confirm engine code and emissions setup before ordering. Use the correct torque procedure for the cylinder head material and inspect ignition coils and boots during service.

Quality Assurance

NGK is a long-standing OE supplier and manufacturer with broad coverage across domestic and import vehicles. The brand’s manufacturing and distribution network supports consistent product standards for automotive ignition service.

• Fits 2007-2014 Honda Fit, N/A; spark plug gap size is 0.052 inches.
• Fits 2006-2011 Acura CSX, N/A; adjust spark plug gap to 0.044 inches.
• Fits 2002-2011 Honda Civic, N/A; adjust spark plug gap to 0.044 inches.
• Fits 2003-2011 Honda Element, N/A; adjust spark plug gap to 0.044 inches.
• Fits 2007-2009 Acura MDX, N/A; adjust spark plug gap to 0.044 inches.
• Fits 2002-2009 Honda CR-V, N/A; adjust spark plug gap to 0.044 inches.
• Fits 2005-2008 Acura RL, N/A; adjust spark plug gap to 0.044 inches.
• Fits 2004-2008 Acura TL, N/A; adjust spark plug gap to 0.044 inches.
• Fits 2004-2008 Acura TSX, N/A; adjust spark plug gap to 0.044 inches.
• Fits 2003-2007 Honda Accord, N/A; fits spark plugs without SULEV (Federal Emissions), with a gap of 0.044 inches.
• Fits 2003-2007 Honda Accord, N/A; fits vehicles with SULEV (California Emissions) with a gap of 0.052 inches.
• Fits 2002-2006 Acura RSX, N/A; adjust spark plug gap to 0.044 inches.