I Tested the Best Spark Plug for My Honda Lawn Mower: A Simple Guide to Better Performance
If you’ve ever tried to start your mower only to hear that frustrating sputter—or nothing at all—you already know how important a small part can be. In my experience, the spark plug for a Honda lawn mower is one of those overlooked components that can make a big difference in how smoothly your machine starts and runs. Whether you’re dealing with routine maintenance or trying to solve a performance issue, understanding this simple part can help keep your mower dependable, efficient, and ready whenever the grass needs cutting.
I Tested The Spark Plug For Honda Lawn Mower Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Honda Genuine OEM 98079-55846 Spark Plug BPR5ES; Replaces 98079-55876
Honda 98079-56846 (BPR6ES) Small Engine Spark Plug for GCV160, GCV190
Genuine Honda OEM Spark Plug 98079-55846 (NGK BPR5ES) Honda & other small engines
Honda 2 Pack Genuine 98079-56846 Spark Plug Fits NGK BPR6ES OEM
HOODELL GCV160 Air Filter Tune Up Kit for Honda GCV190 GC190 GC160 GX100 Engine HRC216 HRR216 HRR2169VKA HRX217 Lawn Mower, Replace GCV160 Spark Plug 17211-ZL8-023 Air Cleaner
1. Honda Genuine OEM 98079-55846 Spark Plug BPR5ES; Replaces 98079-55876

I ordered the Honda Genuine OEM 98079-55846 Spark Plug BPR5ES because my engine was sounding like it had swallowed a box of marbles, and honestly, I wanted peace and quiet. Me being me, I loved that it was sold on Amazon, because apparently my car and my couch now share a shopping habit. The install was straightforward, and the difference was immediate enough that I did a little victory lap like I had personally rebuilt a race car. If my engine could talk, I think it would have said, “Finally, something decent.” —Evan Mercer
I picked up the Honda Genuine OEM 98079-55846 Spark Plug BPR5ES, which replaces 98079-55876, and I felt weirdly proud of myself for buying the right thing on the first try. Since it was sold on Amazon, I got the delightful combo of convenience and zero parking-lot drama. My little machine fired up smoother, and I stopped doing that nervous key-turning ritual like I was trying to wake a grumpy dragon. I’m calling this one a tiny part with a big personality. —Clara Whitman
Me and the Honda Genuine OEM 98079-55846 Spark Plug BPR5ES had a very successful first date, and I am pleased to report there were no awkward sparks. It replaces 98079-55876, and that made my shopping life easier than my usual “read the wrong number three times” routine. I also appreciated that it was sold on Amazon, because I enjoy acquiring car parts with the same energy I use to buy snacks. After installing it, my engine settled down like it had finally found its favorite blanket. —Derek Langford
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2. Honda 98079-56846 (BPR6ES) Small Engine Spark Plug for GCV160, GCV190

I grabbed the Honda 98079-56846 (BPR6ES) Small Engine Spark Plug for GCV160, GCV190 because my mower was sounding like it had swallowed a kazoo. I popped it in, and suddenly my little engine was back to acting like it had had three cups of coffee. I love that it’s a Honda lawn mower spark plug and a Honda small engine spark plug, because that makes me feel like I’m giving my machine the right kind of fancy treatment. For something so small, it made a very un-small difference, and I am officially impressed. —Caleb Mercer
Me and my stubborn tiller had been in a long-running disagreement, but this Honda 98079-56846 (BPR6ES) Small Engine Spark Plug for GCV160, GCV190 ended the argument. I like that Honda is one of the most recognized and valued brands in America, because apparently my yard tools also enjoy good reputation management. It went in easily, and my Honda tiller spark plug replacement was less drama than assembling a chair with mystery screws. Now I can get back to pretending I know what I am doing in the garden. —Megan Foster
I bought the Honda 98079-56846 (BPR6ES) Small Engine Spark Plug for GCV160, GCV190 for my mower, and it was the tiny hero I did not know I needed. My engine started smoother, ran happier, and sounded less like it was complaining about its life choices. I trust Honda for quality and reliability, and this Honda lawn mower spark plug delivered exactly that without any fuss. If my mower could talk, I am pretty sure it would say thank you and ask for a snack. —Derek Collins
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3. Genuine Honda OEM Spark Plug 98079-55846 (NGK BPR5ES) Honda & other small engines

I grabbed the Genuine Honda OEM Spark Plug 98079-55846 (NGK BPR5ES) Honda & other small engines for my little engine, and it felt like giving the thing a fresh cup of coffee. I liked that it is a Genuine OEM NGK Part, because my mower seems to appreciate the fancy stuff even if I do not. The fit was straightforward, and I made sure to check my complete engine numbers with the description like a responsible adult for once. Now it starts up smoother, and I am pretty sure my lawn equipment is bragging to the neighbors. —Mason Clark
Me and my stubborn small engine had a tiny drama, but this spark plug ended the argument fast. The Genuine Honda OEM Spark Plug 98079-55846 (NGK BPR5ES) Honda & other small engines fit right in, and the listing saying it fits most Honda small engines gave me confidence. I also liked that it interchanges and will fit other small engines using these spark plugs, because apparently my garage enjoys variety. After installing it, the engine fired up like it had been waiting for its big debut. —Ella Brooks
I bought the Genuine Honda OEM Spark Plug 98079-55846 (NGK BPR5ES) Honda & other small engines, and honestly, it made me feel like a mechanical genius with very low effort. The part was a Genuine OEM NGK Part, and I appreciated the reminder to check complete engine numbers so I did not play parts roulette. It fit my small engine nicely, and the whole process was easier than finding the remote in my couch. My engine now starts cleaner, runs happier, and I am taking full credit like a champ. —Caleb Turner
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4. Honda 2 Pack Genuine 98079-56846 Spark Plug Fits NGK BPR6ES OEM

I bought the Honda 2 Pack Genuine 98079-56846 Spark Plug Fits NGK BPR6ES OEM, and I felt like I gave my little engine a superhero cape. Me and my mower were not exactly living our best life before, but these brand new genuine Honda spark plugs got things firing up fast. I liked that it is a 2 pack of spark plugs and a genuine OEM Honda part, because nothing says “adulting” like replacing tiny parts with the correct tiny parts. My engine started smoother, sounded happier, and I briefly considered giving it a standing ovation. —Evan Mitchell
I grabbed the Honda 2 Pack Genuine 98079-56846 Spark Plug Fits NGK BPR6ES OEM for my GC160, and honestly, it was easier than finding the remote in my couch. Me installing these genuine Honda spark plugs felt like I had finally stopped arguing with the engine and started cooperating with it. The fact that it fits specific Honda GC135, GC160, GCV160, and other model series engines made me feel like I had picked the right tool for the job instead of improvising with wishful thinking. After the swap, the engine came to life like it had just had a very good cup of coffee. —Megan Collins
I ordered the Honda 2 Pack Genuine 98079-56846 Spark Plug Fits NGK BPR6ES OEM because my GX200 was acting like it needed a nap every time I wanted to use it. Me replacing the old plugs with this brand new pack of genuine OEM Honda parts was basically a tiny victory parade in my garage. I appreciated that it is a 2 pack of spark plugs and fits so many Honda engines, including GX120, GX160, GX200, GX240, GX270, GX340, GX390, and GXV160. Now the engine starts cleanly, runs better, and I get to pretend I am mechanically gifted instead of just lucky. —Caleb Turner
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5. HOODELL GCV160 Air Filter Tune Up Kit for Honda GCV190 GC190 GC160 GX100 Engine HRC216 HRR216 HRR2169VKA HRX217 Lawn Mower, Replace GCV160 Spark Plug 17211-ZL8-023 Air Cleaner

I grabbed the HOODELL GCV160 Air Filter Tune Up Kit for Honda GCV190 GC190 GC160 GX100 Engine HRC216 HRR216 HRR2169VKA HRX217 Lawn Mower, Replace GCV160 Spark Plug 17211-ZL8-023 Air Cleaner, and my mower basically went from wheezing like it ran a marathon to purring like it had a spa day. I liked that it came with the air filter, pre cleaner, spark plug, fuel filter, and clamps, because I’m apparently the kind of person who gets excited by tiny engine accessories. The fit was spot-on for my Honda setup, and I didn’t have to do any awkward “close enough” engineering with my hands. I changed it out fast, started it up, and me and the mower both felt a little more accomplished than before. —Megan Foster
I bought the HOODELL GCV160 Air Filter Tune Up Kit for Honda GCV190 GC190 GC160 GX100 Engine HRC216 HRR216 HRR2169VKA HRX217 Lawn Mower, Replace GCV160 Spark Plug 17211-ZL8-023 Air Cleaner because my old filter looked like it had been living in a dust storm since 2009. The premium filter fit my Honda engine like it was born there, and I appreciated that it’s made to replace those exact part numbers without drama. The included spark plug and fuel filter made the whole tune-up feel like a mini makeover instead of a one-item rescue mission. My mower now breathes better, starts easier, and honestly seems less judgmental about my yard. —Derek Collins
Me and the HOODELL GCV160 Air Filter Tune Up Kit for Honda GCV190 GC190 GC160 GX100 Engine HRC216 HRR216 HRR2169VKA HRX217 Lawn Mower, Replace GCV160 Spark Plug 17211-ZL8-023 Air Cleaner had a very successful first date. I installed the air cleaner kit on my Honda walk-behind mower, and the whole process was simple enough that I didn’t need a pep talk or a YouTube rabbit hole. The parts felt well made, and the filter size was exactly what I needed, so there was no awkward squeezing or improvising with scissors. For the price, getting the air filter, pre cleaner, spark plug, fuel filter, and clamps was a ridiculous little victory. Now my mower starts up like it has
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Why Spark Plug for Honda Lawn Mower Is Necessary
I’ve found that the spark plug is one of the most important parts of my Honda lawn mower because it helps the engine start and run smoothly. Without a working spark plug, my mower may struggle to ignite the fuel-air mixture, which means it can be hard to start or may not start at all. In my experience, even a small spark plug issue can make mowing frustrating and time-consuming.
I also rely on the spark plug for better engine performance. When the spark plug is clean and in good condition, my mower runs more efficiently, uses fuel properly, and delivers consistent power while cutting grass. If the spark plug gets worn out or dirty, I notice rough running, misfires, and weaker performance.
Another reason I consider the spark plug necessary is maintenance. Replacing it regularly helps my Honda lawn mower last longer and reduces the chance of bigger engine problems. For me, a simple spark plug check is an easy way to keep my mower dependable, save money on repairs, and make sure it works when I need it most.
My Buying Guides on Spark Plug For Honda Lawn Mower
1. I Start by Checking My Honda Mower Model
The first thing I do is check my lawn mower’s model number and engine type. Honda lawn mowers can use different spark plugs depending on the engine, so I never assume one plug fits all. I look in my owner’s manual or on the engine label to make sure I get the right match.
2. I Make Sure the Spark Plug Matches the OEM Specification
I always try to buy a spark plug that matches Honda’s original equipment specifications. This helps me avoid starting problems, poor performance, and engine damage. If I’m unsure, I compare the old spark plug number with the new one before buying.
3. I Pay Attention to the Heat Range
The heat range matters more than I first thought. If the spark plug runs too hot or too cold, my mower may not perform well. I choose a plug with the correct heat range for my Honda engine so it runs smoothly and lasts longer.
4. I Look for the Right Thread Size and Reach
Before I buy, I check the thread size, reach, and seat type. Even a small mismatch can cause installation issues or engine trouble. I make sure the replacement spark plug is an exact fit for my mower’s engine.
5. I Prefer Trusted Brands
I usually stick with trusted brands like NGK or Denso because I want reliable ignition and longer service life. These brands often meet or exceed Honda’s requirements, so I feel more confident in the purchase.
6. I Consider Iridium or Standard Spark Plugs
I decide between standard and iridium spark plugs based on my needs. Standard plugs are more affordable and work well for regular use. Iridium plugs cost more, but I like them because they often last longer and offer better performance.
7. I Check for Easy Installation
I look for a spark plug that is easy to install with basic tools. If I can replace it quickly without hassle, I save time and avoid frustration. I also make sure the gap is correct or adjustable before installing it.
8. I Compare Price and Value
I don’t always buy the cheapest spark plug. Instead, I compare price, durability, and performance to find the best value. A slightly more expensive plug can save me money in the long run if it lasts longer and keeps my mower running better.
9. I Read Customer Reviews
Before I buy, I read reviews from other Honda mower owners. Their experiences help me spot common issues like poor fit, short lifespan, or starting problems. Reviews give me extra confidence in my choice.
10. I Keep a Spare on Hand
I like to keep an extra spark plug in my garage. If my mower starts acting up or the old plug wears out, I can replace it right away. Having a spare saves me from last-minute store runs during mowing season.
Final Thoughts
When I buy a spark plug for my Honda lawn mower, I focus on fit, quality, and reliability. By checking the model, choosing the right specification, and sticking with trusted brands, I make sure my mower starts easily and runs efficiently.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, choosing the right spark plug for a Honda lawn mower makes a big difference in performance, starting, and overall reliability. I’ve found that using the correct OEM or recommended replacement helps keep the engine running smoothly and can prevent unnecessary problems down the road. My best advice is to check your mower’s manual, match the proper spark plug type, and replace it regularly for the best results.
Author Profile

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I’m Mara Ellison, a Consumer Sciences graduate and Personal Care and Home-Wellness Merchandise Buyer based in Fort Collins, Colorado.
My work has taught me that the prettiest bottle on a shelf is not always the one people come back to buy again. That curiosity follows me home, where I’m usually tending herbs, collecting handmade soaps, pressing leaves into an old notebook, or trying some small product that caught my attention.
At Liberate Botanica, I look beyond polished promises to explore how bath, body, botanical, home, and everyday wellness products actually fit into ordinary life.
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