Woman Overcharged 72% for Spark Plug Replacement, Blames Lack of Research

A TikTok user, @bigcashmoneyash, recently shared her experience of being significantly overcharged—72% above the fair market price—for a spark plug replacement. She admitted that at the time, she was sitting comfortably in her car eating lunch, fully trusting the repair shop, and only realized afterward that she’d been “ripped off.” According to data from AAA and CarParts.com, spark plug replacements typically cost between $100 and $390, depending on the vehicle model, spark plug material (copper plugs cost $2–$5 each, while iridium plugs range from $8–$30 each), and labor complexity. Reflecting on her habit of “never doing research beforehand,” she has now decided to buy her own tools and handle the replacement herself next time. She urges fellow car owners: “Always do your homework first—don’t just place an order because a shop ‘looks trustworthy.’”