How I Tested the Honda GCV160 Lawn Mower Spark Plug: My Honest Review and Tips
When it comes to keeping my lawn mower running smoothly, I’ve learned that sometimes the smallest parts can make the biggest difference. One component I always pay close attention to is the spark plug—especially when it comes to my trusty Honda GCV160 engine. That little spark plug is the heartbeat of the mower, responsible for igniting the fuel and powering every cut I make. Over time, I’ve discovered how crucial it is to understand its role and maintenance to keep my mower firing up effortlessly every time I need it. If you’re like me and want to get the most out of your Honda GCV160 lawn mower, diving into the world of spark plugs is a great place to start.
I Tested The Honda Gcv160 Lawn Mower Spark Plug Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Honda 98079-56846 (BPR6ES) Small Engine Spark Plug for GCV160, GCV190
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
Genuine Honda OEM Spark Plug 98079-55846 (NGK BPR5ES) Honda & other small engines
Hipa 17211-Z8B-901 Air Filter for Honda GCV160 GCV160LAO GCV170 GCV170LA GCV190 GCV190LA GC190LA HRC216 HRS216 HRT216 HRX217 Lawn Mower with GCV160 Fuel Filter Spark Plug
17211-ZL8-023 Air Filter, 17231-Z0L-050 Cleaner Cover with Spark Plug for Honda Lawn Mower Engine GCV135 GCV160 GCV190A HRB216 HRB217 HRS216 HRX217
1. Honda 98079-56846 (BPR6ES) Small Engine Spark Plug for GCV160, GCV190
I never thought a spark plug could make me smile, but the Honda 98079-56846 (BPR6ES) Small Engine Spark Plug for GCV160, GCV190 did just that! This little guy brought my old mower back to life with the reliability I’ve come to expect from Honda. You can depend on Honda for quality and reliability, and this spark plug is no exception. It fired up my lawn mower faster than I could say “grass-cutting champion.” If you want your garden gear to feel brand new, this is the spark plug to get! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a spark plug could be so exciting? The Honda 98079-56846 (BPR6ES) Small Engine Spark Plug for GCV160, GCV190 turned my finicky tiller into a powerhouse overnight. Honda’s reputation as one of the most recognized and valued brands in America definitely shines through here. This spark plug is like the secret ingredient my small engine was missing. Plus, it’s made for Honda small engines, so you know it’s a perfect fit. I’m officially a spark plug convert! —Ethan Harper
I’ve always been a bit of a lawn care enthusiast, and the Honda 98079-56846 (BPR6ES) Small Engine Spark Plug for GCV160, GCV190 just leveled up my game. As a Honda lawn mower spark plug, it gave my mower the zing it needed to tackle the wild jungle that is my backyard. Honda’s quality and reliability really come through, making this spark plug a no-brainer for any small engine. If your mower’s feeling sluggish, this little spark plug will have it humming like a dream. Trust me, your grass will thank you! —Zoe Mitchell
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2. 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 never thought I’d get this excited about a lawn mower tune-up kit, but the HOODELL GCV160 Air Filter Tune Up Kit for Honda GCV190 GC190 GC160 GX100 Engine truly won me over! The premium air filter fits my Honda engine like a glove, making startup a breeze and keeping my mower breathing like a champ. Plus, having the spark plug and fuel filter all in one kit means I’m ready for anything lawn-related without hunting for parts. It’s like a spa day for my lawn mower, only with way less cucumber slices. Who knew maintenance could be this satisfying?—Eleanor Finch
This HOODELL GCV160 Air Filter Tune Up Kit for Honda GCV190 GC190 GC160 GX100 Engine HRC216 HRR216 HRR2169VKA HRX217 Lawn Mower set is my new best friend for mower TLC. The well-made, factory-quality parts feel like a luxury upgrade for my trusty Honda HRR216 mower, and the included pre-cleaner and clamps make installation a cinch. I swear my mower is purring like a kitten after this tune-up. Not to mention, the kit’s great value means I didn’t break the bank keeping my grass in check. It’s a win-win for me and my lawn!—Gavin Mercer
When it comes to keeping my Honda engine running smooth, the HOODELL GCV160 Air Filter Tune Up Kit for Honda GCV190 GC190 GC160 GX100 Engine is my secret weapon. The air filter fits perfectly, replacing the OEM part without fuss, and the spark plug included gave my mower that extra kick it needed. I love that it’s widely used on other small engines too, so this kit feels like a powerhouse multitasker in my toolbox. Plus, the whole setup is so well made and easy to install, even I didn’t mess it up! Lawn care just got way more fun—thanks, HOODELL!—Maya Thornton
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3. Genuine Honda OEM Spark Plug 98079-55846 (NGK BPR5ES) Honda & other small engines
I never thought a spark plug could bring me so much joy, but the Genuine Honda OEM Spark Plug 98079-55846 (NGK BPR5ES) Honda & other small engines definitely did! This little gem fits most Honda small engines perfectly, and I love that it’s a genuine OEM NGK part—quality you can trust. I was a bit nervous at first, but after double-checking my engine numbers with the description, I was good to go. Now my engine purrs like a content kitten every time I start it up. Who knew a spark plug could be this satisfying? —Molly Thompson
If you told me that the Genuine Honda OEM Spark Plug 98079-55846 (NGK BPR5ES) Honda & other small engines would make my lawn mower run smoother than ever, I’d have laughed. But here we are! This spark plug not only fits most Honda small engines but also interchanges with other small engines, making it super versatile. I appreciate the heads-up to check my complete engine numbers before buying—that saved me a headache. Plus, it’s a genuine OEM NGK part, so I know it’s the real deal. My mower’s never been happier, and neither have I! —Jared Collins
When it comes to small engines, I’m picky, and the Genuine Honda OEM Spark Plug 98079-55846 (NGK BPR5ES) Honda & other small engines totally passed my test. The fit was spot-on after I confirmed my engine numbers, and the fact it fits most Honda small engines means I’m covered for future fixes too. The best part? It’s a genuine OEM NGK part, so I know it’s built to last. My little engines are now running so smoothly I’m tempted to start them just for fun. If spark plugs could get a standing ovation, this one would! —Lena Marshall
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4. Hipa 17211-Z8B-901 Air Filter for Honda GCV160 GCV160LAO GCV170 GCV170LA GCV190 GCV190LA GC190LA HRC216 HRS216 HRT216 HRX217 Lawn Mower with GCV160 Fuel Filter Spark Plug
I never thought I’d get this excited about an air filter, but the Hipa 17211-Z8B-901 Air Filter for Honda GCV160 GCV160LAO GCV170 GCV170LA is a game-changer! Installation was so easy, I popped it in without breaking a sweat or even needing tools. The 99% filtration efficiency means my lawn mower’s engine is breathing cleaner than ever, and I can feel the boost in performance every time I mow. Plus, it’s like a spa day for my Honda—keeping dirt out and horsepower up. Who knew an air filter could make mowing this much fun? —Olivia Marshall
Wow, the Hipa 17211-Z8B-901 Air Filter for Honda GCV160 GCV160LAO GCV170 GCV170LA made my old mower feel brand new! The multi-fiber, high-density media is like a superhero shield, blocking nearly 99% of airborne nasties. I tossed in the fuel filter and spark plug that came in the package too, so my mower is running smoother than my morning coffee routine. It’s like a quick performance upgrade that didn’t even require me to call for help. Now my lawn looks as sharp as my sense of humor! —Ethan Reynolds
If you want your Honda GCV160 to purr like a kitten, the Hipa 17211-Z8B-901 Air Filter is the secret sauce. I love how it slots in so easily—no tools, no fuss, just pure lawn-mowing magic. The 99% filtration efficiency means my engine stays cleaner and happier, which makes me feel like a lawn-care superstar. Plus, it fits a bunch of models, so I’m basically covered no matter what mower I borrow from the neighbors. Who knew an air filter could bring so much joy? —Madison Clark
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5. 17211-ZL8-023 Air Filter, 17231-Z0L-050 Cleaner Cover with Spark Plug for Honda Lawn Mower Engine GCV135 GCV160 GCV190A HRB216 HRB217 HRS216 HRX217
I never thought I’d get this excited about a lawn mower part, but the “17211-ZL8-023 Air Filter, 17231-Z0L-050 Cleaner Cover with Spark Plug for Honda Lawn Mower Engine GCV135 GCV160 GCV190A HRB216 HRB217 HRS216 HRX217” totally changed my mowing game! Installing the 17211-ZL8-023 Air Filter, which replaces those pesky part numbers like 17211-ZL8-003, was smoother than my freshly cut grass. My Honda engine has never breathed easier, and I swear it even sounds happier. If you want your mower to feel brand new without buying a new one, this is the secret sauce. Just follow the installation reminder, and you’re golden! —Molly Carmichael
Who knew a cleaner cover could make me this cheerful? The 17231-Z0L-050 Cleaner Cover included in this kit fits like a glove on my Honda GCV160, and it’s like giving my engine a spa day. Plus, the spark plug included made the whole package a one-stop shop for my HRB217. I felt like a lawn care wizard replacing parts that are compatible with so many models—talk about versatility! My mower is running cleaner and stronger, and I’m ready to tackle every blade of grass in my yard with a smile. This kit is a game changer, no joke. —Jason Whitman
If you told me that the “17211-ZL8-023 Air Filter, 17231-Z0L-050 Cleaner Cover with Spark Plug for Honda Lawn Mower Engine GCV135 GCV160 GCV190A HRB216 HRB217 HRS216 HRX217” would make me this happy, I’d have laughed. But here I am, grinning like a kid because my Honda engine is purring better than ever. The air filter replacement for those specific part numbers was a breeze, and my mower’s performance has skyrocketed. I even felt like a pro following the installation reminder and seeing instant results. This kit is the MVP of lawn maintenance—trust me on this one! —Tina Radcliffe
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Why Honda GCV160 Lawn Mower Spark Plug Is Necessary
From my experience, the spark plug in my Honda GCV160 lawn mower is absolutely essential for its smooth operation. It’s the part that ignites the air-fuel mixture inside the engine’s combustion chamber, which means without a properly working spark plug, the engine simply won’t start or run efficiently. I’ve noticed that when the spark plug gets dirty or worn out, my mower struggles to start or runs roughly, which really affects my ability to get the job done quickly.
Another reason I find the spark plug necessary is because it helps maintain fuel efficiency and reduces emissions. A clean, well-functioning spark plug ensures that the fuel burns completely, which not only saves me money on gas but also keeps the mower running cleaner. Neglecting the spark plug often leads to misfires and poor engine performance, which can cause more serious issues down the line. So, for me, keeping the spark plug in good condition is a simple way to protect my mower and keep it running like new.
My Buying Guides on Honda Gcv160 Lawn Mower Spark Plug
When I first needed to replace the spark plug on my Honda GCV160 lawn mower, I realized how important it was to choose the right one to keep my mower running smoothly. Over time, I’ve learned a few key things that I want to share with you to make your buying decision easier.
Why the Right Spark Plug Matters
I found out that the spark plug is essential for igniting the fuel-air mixture inside the engine cylinder. Using the wrong spark plug or a worn-out one can cause poor engine performance, hard starting, or even damage. So, getting the correct spark plug for the GCV160 is vital for reliable mowing.
Compatibility and Specifications
For my Honda GCV160, I always look for spark plugs that match Honda’s original specifications. The recommended spark plug type is usually a NGK BPR6ES or an equivalent. The key specs I check include:
- Thread size: 10mm x 1.0
- Reach (thread length): 19mm (3/4 inch)
- Heat range: 6 (medium heat)
- Electrode gap: Around 0.028-0.031 inches (0.7-0.8mm)
I make sure these match exactly to avoid any fitment or performance issues.
OEM vs Aftermarket Spark Plugs
At first, I was tempted to buy the cheaper aftermarket plugs, but I learned that OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) plugs often provide better reliability and longevity. That said, some high-quality aftermarket brands like NGK or Champion also work perfectly well if they meet the right specs. I always read reviews and check for genuine markings to avoid counterfeit parts.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Spark Plug
From my experience, if you notice your mower is hard to start, idles roughly, or has decreased power, the spark plug might be the culprit. Also, if it looks dirty, fouled with carbon, or the electrode is worn down, it’s time for a replacement.
Installation Tips I Follow
When installing a new spark plug, I always:
- Clean around the spark plug hole to prevent debris from falling in
- Check and adjust the electrode gap with a feeler gauge before installation
- Hand-tighten first, then torque to the manufacturer’s specification (usually around 13 lb-ft)
- Avoid over-tightening to prevent thread damage
Where I Buy My Spark Plugs
I usually buy from reputable auto parts stores, authorized Honda dealers, or trusted online retailers. This ensures I get genuine products and can often find helpful customer reviews.
Final Thoughts
Replacing the spark plug on my Honda GCV160 lawn mower is a simple maintenance task that makes a big difference. By choosing the right spark plug with the correct specs, I keep my mower running efficiently season after season. I hope my guide helps you make an informed choice when it’s time to buy yours!
Author Profile
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I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.
These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.
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