Parts for your 2002 Nissan Pulsar-Spark plugs

2002 Nissan Pulsar spark plugs – what they do and when to replace them

Per the Nissan Pulsar N16 Owner’s Handbook and Factory Service Manual (2000–2005), the 1.6 and 1.8 litre petrol engines (QG16DE/QG18DE) fitted to 2002 Australian and New Zealand Pulsars use spark plugs. Major plug catalogues (NGK AU/NZ and Denso) list specific plugs for these engines. Only the YD22 diesel (rare in our market) uses glow plugs instead of spark plugs. For a 2002 Pulsar sold in Australia or New Zealand, spark plugs are fitted and absolutely relevant.

On the 2002 Nissan Pulsar petrol models, spark plugs ignite the air–fuel mix in each cylinder, giving reliable starts, smooth idle and decent fuel economy. They also help keep emissions in check. Fresh, correctly gapped plugs make a noticeable difference to how the QG-series engine pulls up hills and cruises on the motorway.

For day-to-day servicing, it’s worth inspecting the plugs at each service and replacing them on schedule. Conventional nickel/copper plugs typically last around 20,000–40,000 km, while platinum or iridium types listed for the QG engines can go up to about 100,000 km. The factory spec commonly calls for a 1.1 mm gap on these engines