2003 STR, tons of detonation
 

I can't remember how long this has been going on, but typically when you punch it and it downshifts, it pings really bad until it upshifts again.

Anyone else have this issue? The only thing I can think of is that I installed some new spark plugs a while back. I did check the gap, I'm running Autolite Platinums. I know the Denso Iridiums came out of it, but I typically don't buy the ultra expensive gimicky plugs.

Help!

NGK Iridium Spark plugs!
 

Iridium plugs will last 100K miles, I know they are expensive, but
it's worth it.

mplex2000 - it should NOT do that. I can't say it's the plugs but whatever it is I'd want to fix it urgently if it were my car.

Putting in the wrong plugs could well be a false economy. They use iridium for engineering reasons not cost ones. You can read up on them on the net.

That you can hear it in the cabin, despite its sound-deadening and above the SC noise, is kinda scary.

I don't know about 100k miles, I pulled these around 35k and they were fairly worn. I really noticed it during the summer when I tend to drive with the windows down. I wasn't TOO worried since it only happens when I mentioned, basically if you get on it and it drops into 1st ... obviously I have been trying to avoid doing that.

I also should have mentioned that the plugs did appear to be telling me the engine had been running lean when I changed them.

I think what I'm going to do is go ahead and try swapping in a set of iridiums again anyway. If that doesn't help I'll take it in for warranty work.

If they really showed it had been running lean then you need to find why (er, obviously).

Iridium plugs can look worn right from new due to their different characteristics - have a look via google

Are you absolutely sure, that you, or somebody didn't put regular unleaded fuel instead of premium fuel?