2009 V6 (1GR-FE) started knocking

Funny, the more people I mention the 114k on the original factory plugs to, the more I hear about people putting 125k, 150k, 175k on their plugs.

 

I gone as far as 50k miles and at that point the center electrode was noticeably worn. It's a easy enough task to do and not that expensive. I've both read and been told by a friend (now retired auto mechanic) that having a larger spark gap that the coil will run hotter, leading to bad coil.
Other plug types can go longer but the factory plugs on the first and second generation aren't iridium. Not the v6's

 

Good info, thanks.

Wonder if I should change the wires, too?

How do I know if the coils are bad?

 

No wires only coil boots, if they are in good condition with no cracking or oil contamination put some dielectric grease in them and you should be fine.
If oil is present in the spark plug tubes you will need to do valve cover gaskets soon.

 

I should replace the boots only and put dielectric grease in them?

 

You can but it isn't necessary to replace them if they aren't cracked, carbon tracked, or soaked in oil.

 

I believe if you had a bad coil, you'd be getting a misfire that would be noticeable. Likely no need to change coils.

 

No need to replace anything but the plugs, just start with that. And a little dielectric grease in the boot on the sides like just a small amount with a q-tip or just put a small amount on the plug itself. The grease will make the boot easier to remove 50k miles from now. Just a small amount, your not basting a Turkey.

 

And a check engine light

 

Is there a modified plug torque spec for when anti-seize is applied? Maybe +3 ft*lb?

Thanks.

 

Less torque not more. Go back a page, that little screen shot says reduce torque by 1/3 if using anti-seize.
I've never put a torque wrench on a plug
Just good, snug, and done. It's not a lug nut on a big rig.