When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
So I decided to look at the spark plugs I purchased from Mazmart a while ago and compare it against the old ones I pulled out. The old ones were purchased from the local Mazda dealer a while ago, and something looks a bit off with the new ones.
The new one(Mazmart) is on the left and and the old one(dealer) is on the right.
As you can see, the NGK logo is a bit off center on the new ones. The logo is centered on the old ones.
The new one doesn't have the blue(white for leading) paint on it.
The font is a bit different. The "9" is definitely different.
Now I know Mazmart is a respected and reputable seller, and I definitely don't want to point fingers, but should I be concerned about this?
My bet is that between when you got your old plugs and now, NGK switched to a different labeling machine or something.
I'll try to remember to snap pics of the old plugs when I swap them out in the next week or so.
Just sent them an email asking about it. I will post an update when they reply.
Yeah, the ones I bought from Mazmart look the same as what you have bought from them.
And that's certainly a possibility, just a simple font change or something. Could also just be differences between independent NGK parts and Mazda-branded NGK parts.
I mean, aside from the labeling on the ceramic, nothing looks particularly off. The threads are fine, and the washer doesn't come off at all.
Also keep in mind that NGK probably makes a run of those plugs once per year. There is probably a good bit of cosmetic variance from that infrequency alone.
Also keep in mind that NGK probably makes a run of those plugs once per year. There is probably a good bit of cosmetic variance from that infrequency alone.
This is exactly what I was thinking. I was thinking it was just a paint variance due to different production dates. Honestly nothing I would be terribly concerned about.
Could just be me being paranoid, but just want to double check.
A small update here. This is their reply.
Hello,
Thank you for your E-mail. I have not seen counterfeit spark plugs for the rotary engine before. Probably since it is a small market for counterfieters. What is the lot number on the hex? Can you send me a picture. How much did you pay for them?
I have worked with NGK on projects in the past. I believe what your seeing is caused from this being a limited run. NGK's usual run for their standard PN#'s could be in the 100K+ size where with the more limited runs it might be less then 20K. The limited runs most likely uses non-std techniques to manufacture. I see this sometimes on their race plugs. I have some contacts at NGK if you want to call them I can PM you their contact info.
Turns out, I am just paranoid. These spark plugs are good.
Hello,
Thank you for the information. With the lot number is good and the price checks out. These should be good. NGK only recommends buying from Authorized Distributors to guarantee authenticity.
So yeah, could just be minor differences in manufacturing as mentioned by some people here. Also makes sense since it's too niche of a market to counterfeit. Good to make sure, though.
