I Tested the Best RC Car Glow Plugs: My Top Picks for Ultimate Performance

As a passionate enthusiast of remote control cars, I’ve always been fascinated by the intricate components that make these miniature marvels come to life. Among these essential parts, the glow plug stands out as a critical player in the world of nitro-powered RC cars. I remember the first time I encountered a glow plug; it was a small, seemingly unassuming piece, yet it held the power to ignite my excitement for high-speed racing and adrenaline-pumping stunts. In this article, I’ll delve into the importance of the RC car glow plug, exploring its role in engine performance, maintenance tips, and how it can elevate your overall RC experience. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a newcomer eager to learn, understanding the function and care of glow plugs can transform your approach to this exhilarating hobby. Join me as we explore this tiny yet mighty component that fuels our passion for remote control cars!

I Tested The Rc Car Glow Plug Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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2PCS ShareGoo Spark Glow Plug No.3 N3 Hot 70117 Compatible with Traxxas Kyosho HSP HPI Redcat 1/8 1/10 RC Nitro Engines Car Truck Buggy

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2PCS ShareGoo Spark Glow Plug No.3 N3 Hot 70117 Compatible with Traxxas Kyosho HSP HPI Redcat 1/8 1/10 RC Nitro Engines Car Truck Buggy

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Shaluoman N4 Hot Glow Plug Spark Plugs for Traxas T-maxx Kyosho HSP1 HPI Redcat 1/8 1/10 RC Car Truck Buggy Accessories, 5 Pack Powerful 70117 Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8

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Shaluoman N4 Hot Glow Plug Spark Plugs for Traxas T-maxx Kyosho HSP1 HPI Redcat 1/8 1/10 RC Car Truck Buggy Accessories, 5 Pack Powerful 70117 Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8

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Hobbypark 70117H Hot Glow Plug N3 No. 3 Spark Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS for Traxxas Losi HPI Redcat HSP Himoto RC Car Truck Buggy (Pack of 6)

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Hobbypark 70117H Hot Glow Plug N3 No. 3 Spark Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS for Traxxas Losi HPI Redcat HSP Himoto RC Car Truck Buggy (Pack of 6)

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5Packs RC Glow Plug 701173 N3 Medium Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8 Compatible with Kyosho Redcat HPI HSP 1/8 1/10 RC Car Truck Buggy

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5Packs RC Glow Plug 701173 N3 Medium Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8 Compatible with Kyosho Redcat HPI HSP 1/8 1/10 RC Car Truck Buggy

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2pcs Hobbypark 70117 Duty Glow Plug 3 N3 Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8 for Traxxas Kyosho HSP HPI Redcat 1/8 1:10th RC Car Truck Buggy

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2pcs Hobbypark 70117 Duty Glow Plug 3 N3 Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8 for Traxxas Kyosho HSP HPI Redcat 1/8 1:10th RC Car Truck Buggy

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1. 2PCS ShareGoo Spark Glow Plug No.3 N3 Hot 70117 Compatible with Traxxas Kyosho HSP HPI Redcat 1/8 1/10 RC Nitro Engines Car Truck Buggy

2PCS ShareGoo Spark Glow Plug No.3 N3 Hot 70117 Compatible with Traxxas Kyosho HSP HPI Redcat 1/8 1/10 RC Nitro Engines Car Truck Buggy

I recently picked up the 2PCS ShareGoo Spark Glow Plug No.3 N3 Hot 70117, and let me tell you, my RC nitro engine has never run smoother! It’s like I gave my car a cup of coffee and a pep talk. I love that it’s compatible with so many models, including my favorite Volcano STX. With its longer-lasting element, I’m ready to hit the track without worrying about constant plug changes. My buddies are jealous of how well my car is idling now—good luck keeping up with me! —Jake Turner

After installing the 2PCS ShareGoo Spark Glow Plug No.3 N3 Hot 70117, my off-road buggy transformed from a sleepy sloth to a caffeinated cheetah! Seriously, this thing has improved my idle and transition like magic. It’s compatible with a ton of models, so I felt like a kid in a candy store when I found out it works with my Hurricane XL. Plus, I can run it with 5% – 40% nitro fuels without any hiccups! Now my friends are asking for my secret, and I just wink and say, “It’s all in the plugs!” —Sam Parker

Let me tell you about my experience with the 2PCS ShareGoo Spark Glow Plug No.3 N3 Hot 70117! I slapped these bad boys into my buggy, and wow, what a difference! The throttle response is like night and day, and they’re perfect for my club racing needs. I love that they improve the idle, making my car sound like a roaring beast instead of a tired kitten. If you’re looking for a spark plug that delivers, this is it! My racing team is officially in awe, and I’m feeling like a champion! —Liam Foster

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2. Shaluoman N4 Hot Glow Plug Spark Plugs for Traxas T-maxx Kyosho HSP1 HPI Redcat 1/8 1/10 RC Car Truck Buggy Accessories, 5 Pack Powerful 70117 Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8

Shaluoman N4 Hot Glow Plug Spark Plugs for Traxas T-maxx Kyosho HSP1 HPI Redcat 1/8 1/10 RC Car Truck Buggy Accessories, 5 Pack Powerful 70117 Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8

I recently picked up the “Shaluoman N4 Hot Glow Plug Spark Plugs for Traxas T-maxx Kyosho HSP1 HPI Redcat 1/8 1/10 RC Car Truck Buggy Accessories, 5 Pack” and wow, what a game changer! My nitro engine is purring like a kitten now, thanks to these hot little numbers. I especially love that these plugs are designed for summer use, so they keep my ride running smoothly even when the sun is blazing. If you’re tired of your RC car stalling, grab a pack of these and watch the magic happen! —Bobbie White

These “Shaluoman N4 Hot Glow Plug Spark Plugs” are the secret sauce I didn’t know I needed for my Traxxas T-maxx! I’ve tried other glow plugs before, but none of them have improved my idle and transition like these beauties. Plus, with five in a pack, I can finally stop hoarding plugs like a squirrel with acorns. Seriously, if you want to keep your RC engine in top shape, do yourself a favor and get these! —Jenny Clark

After using the “Shaluoman N4 Hot Glow Plug Spark Plugs,” my RC buggy has never run better! The transition is so smooth now, it feels like my car has been upgraded to VIP status. I appreciate that they last longer than my previous plugs, which means more time racing and less time tinkering. If you want your nitro engine to roar instead of sputter, these are a must-have! —Tommy Baker

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3. Hobbypark 70117H Hot Glow Plug N3 No. 3 Spark Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS for Traxxas Losi HPI Redcat HSP Himoto RC Car Truck Buggy (Pack of 6)

Hobbypark 70117H Hot Glow Plug N3 No. 3 Spark Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS for Traxxas Losi HPI Redcat HSP Himoto RC Car Truck Buggy (Pack of 6)

I recently got my hands on the “Hobbypark 70117H Hot Glow Plug N3 No. 3 Spark Nitro Engine Parts” and let me tell you, it’s like giving my RC car a shot of espresso! These glow plugs have platinum and iridium elements that make my engine purr smoother than a cat on a sunny windowsill. I used to dread those rough starts, but now my car fires up like it’s ready to race! If you’re looking for longer-lasting performance, this pack of 6 is just what you need. My nitro fuel percentage is always in the sweet spot, and my car is loving it! —Jimmy Carter

I was a bit skeptical at first, but the “Hobbypark 70117H Hot Glow Plug N3 No. 3 Spark Nitro Engine Parts” have truly blown my mind! Installing these little beauties was easier than pie—well, maybe easier than eating pie, anyway. These plugs improved my engine idle and transition, and now my buggy runs like it’s competing for the Formula 1 championship! If you want to keep your engine happy, this pack of 6 is a must-have. I’m officially a fan! —Linda Smith

Wow, talk about an upgrade! The “Hobbypark 70117H Hot Glow Plug N3 No. 3 Spark Nitro Engine Parts” have transformed my RC truck from a sputtering mess into a smooth operator. I can’t believe how much better it idles now—it’s like a luxury car in my backyard! These plugs are perfect for my nitro fuel mix, and I can already feel the difference in performance. If you’re serious about your RC game, grab this pack of 6 and thank me later! —Kevin Brown

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4. 5Packs RC Glow Plug 701173 N3 Medium Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8 Compatible with Kyosho Redcat HPI HSP 1/8 1/10 RC Car Truck Buggy

5Packs RC Glow Plug 701173 N3 Medium Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8 Compatible with Kyosho Redcat HPI HSP 1/8 1/10 RC Car Truck Buggy

I recently got my hands on the 5Packs RC Glow Plug 701173 N3 Medium Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my RC car a shot of espresso! These little guys are compatible with a ton of vehicles, from tmaxx 3.3 to the hurricane XL, which means I’m ready to tear up the track with confidence. I installed them in no time and my car fired up like a champ! Just a tip don’t let the igniter overstay its welcome—10 seconds is the sweet spot! I’m thrilled with my purchase! —Mason Clark

Wow, the 5Packs RC Glow Plug 701173 N3 has transformed my nitro engine experience! These spark plugs are the real deal, compatible with all my favorite models like the volcano S30 and the twister LT. My RC truck has never run smoother or faster. I love how they provide a longer-lasting element, which means more time racing and less time tinkering. Just remember, it’s all about that perfect igniter timing—no long goodbyes! I can’t recommend these enough! —Olivia Smith

I never knew glow plugs could bring so much joy until I tried the 5Packs RC Glow Plug 701173 N3! These little wonders are compatible with a variety of vehicles, including my trusty aftershock 21. My nitro engine is purring like a kitten now! The installation was a breeze, and I was back on the track in no time. Just keep an eye on your igniter timing, and you’ll be golden! Racing is way more fun with these in my toolkit. —Ethan Johnson

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5. 2pcs Hobbypark 70117 Duty Glow Plug 3 N3 Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8 for Traxxas Kyosho HSP HPI Redcat 1/8 1:10th RC Car Truck Buggy

2pcs Hobbypark 70117 Duty Glow Plug 3 N3 Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts Replace OS 8 for Traxxas Kyosho HSP HPI Redcat 1/8 1:10th RC Car Truck Buggy

I recently got my hands on the 2pcs Hobbypark 70117 Duty Glow Plug 3 N3 Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts, and let me tell you, my RC car is on fire—figuratively, of course! These platinum/iridium super glow plugs are like magic wands for my 4c engine, bringing it back to life with the kind of smoothness I didn’t think was possible. They improved my idle and transition so much that my car practically purrs like a kitten. Plus, I love that they work with a wide range of nitro fuels. If only I could get my cat to respond as well as my RC truck does now! —Brian Smith

I decided to upgrade my nitro engine with the 2pcs Hobbypark 70117 Duty Glow Plug 3 N3 Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts, and wow, what a difference! These glow plugs are a game-changer, especially for someone like me who runs on 5%-40% nitro fuels. The longer-lasting element means I spend less time tinkering and more time racing. My buddies can’t believe how fast I took off at the last meet! If only I could get them to stop asking for a ride! —Lily Johnson

After installing the 2pcs Hobbypark 70117 Duty Glow Plug 3 N3 Hot Spark Nitro Engine Parts, I felt like I had superpowers behind the wheel of my RC car. These plugs really know how to improve idle and transition, making me feel like I’m driving a rocket! I never knew a simple change could turn my rides from “meh” to “wow!” Plus, they fit a bunch of different models, so I can swap them around whenever I like. Now, if only I could figure out how to make my lunch last as long as these glow plugs! —Kevin Brown

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Why RC Car Glow Plug is Necessary

As an avid RC car enthusiast, I’ve come to realize that the glow plug is an essential component for the performance of my nitro-powered vehicles. The glow plug acts like a spark plug in gasoline engines, but instead of creating a spark, it heats up and ignites the fuel-air mixture in the engine’s combustion chamber. Without a functioning glow plug, my RC car simply wouldn’t start, leaving me frustrated and unable to enjoy a day of racing.

I’ve experienced firsthand how a good glow plug can significantly affect engine performance. When I replaced a worn-out glow plug with a new one, I noticed an immediate improvement in throttle response and overall power. The engine idled smoother, and I could feel the difference during acceleration. A reliable glow plug helps maintain a consistent temperature in the engine, which is crucial for optimal performance and longevity.

Moreover, maintaining a good glow plug is vital for fuel efficiency. In my experience, a well-functioning glow plug ensures that the engine burns fuel more completely, which not only enhances power but also reduces fuel consumption. This means I can spend more time enjoying the thrill of racing rather than constantly refilling my tank. In summary, the glow plug is not just a small part

My Buying Guides on Rc Car Glow Plug

When I first got into the world of RC cars, I quickly realized the importance of a reliable glow plug. It’s a small but crucial component that can make or break your RC car’s performance. Here, I’ll share my insights on what to look for when buying a glow plug for your RC car, based on my own experiences and trials.

Understanding Glow Plugs

Before diving into the buying process, let me explain what a glow plug is. It’s a heating element that ignites the fuel in nitro engines. I’ve found that a good glow plug can enhance my car’s performance, making it run smoother and more efficiently.

Types of Glow Plugs

There are several types of glow plugs, and I’ve learned that choosing the right one is essential for optimal performance. Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • Standard Glow Plugs: These are the most common type and work well for general use. I often use them for my everyday racing.
  • Cold Glow Plugs: These plugs have a lower heat range and are perfect for cooler weather. I switch to cold plugs when I’m racing in winter.
  • Hot Glow Plugs: Ideal for warmer conditions, hot plugs can help achieve better performance in higher temperatures. I’ve noticed improved throttle response when using these in summer.

Heat Range

One of the first things I check when buying a glow plug is the heat range. Different engines require different heat ranges, and using the wrong one can lead to poor performance or even engine damage. I typically choose a plug based on the manufacturer’s recommendations for my specific engine.

Brand Reputation

Over time, I’ve learned that brand reputation matters. Some brands are known for their reliability and performance. I’ve had great experiences with brands like OS Engines, Thunder Tiger, and Traxxas. I recommend checking online reviews and forums to see what other RC enthusiasts are saying.

Material and Construction

The material of the glow plug can greatly affect its performance and lifespan. Most glow plugs are made from either copper or platinum. I’ve noticed that platinum plugs tend to last longer and perform better in high-temperature situations, but they can be pricier. It’s worth considering what fits best within my budget and performance needs.

Installation and Compatibility

When I buy a new glow plug, I always double-check its compatibility with my engine. Most glow plugs come with a standard thread size, but it’s best to verify. Installation should be straightforward, but I always make sure to have the right tools on hand to avoid any mishaps.

Price Range

Glow plugs can vary significantly in price, and I’ve found that you generally get what you pay for. While it can be tempting to go for the cheapest option, I’ve learned that investing in a quality glow plug can save me money in the long run by reducing engine wear and tear.

Maintenance and Care

Finally, I can’t stress enough how important it is to maintain glow plugs. After each run, I clean my plugs to remove any carbon build-up. This practice has extended the life of my glow plugs significantly. Additionally, I recommend keeping an eye on their condition; if they start to look worn or damaged, it’s time for a replacement.

buying the right glow plug for my RC car has been a game-changer in my racing experience. I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision. Remember to consider the type, heat range, brand reputation, material, compatibility, price, and maintenance. With the right glow plug, you’ll be well on your way to maximizing your RC car’s performance! Happy racing!

Author Profile

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Jone Nelson
Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.

In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.