🔧 Challenger - Ignition Coil Replacement

Your Challenger uses coil-on-plug ignition coils (one coil per cylinder) mounted on top of the valve covers. Replacing a bad coil restores a strong spark and can fix misfires, rough idle, and flashing check-engine lights.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 1.0–2.0 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• ⚠️ Work on a cool engine; coils sit near hot parts.
• ⚠️ Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent accidental shorts.
• ⚠️ Don’t pull on wiring; release connector locks first.
• ⚠️ If the check-engine light is flashing, avoid driving until fixed (can damage the catalytic converters).

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• 10mm socket
• 1/4" ratchet
• 3" socket extension
• Torque wrench (inch-pound or low Nm)
• Small flathead screwdriver
• Trim removal tool
• Nitrile gloves
• Safety glasses

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Ignition coil - Qty: 1 (or Qty: 8 if replacing all)
• Dielectric grease - Qty: 1

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground, put the transmission in 1st gear, and set the parking brake.
• Let the engine cool fully.
• Open the trunk and disconnect the battery: use a 10mm socket to remove the negative terminal (black). Tuck it aside so it can’t spring back.
• Tip: Replace one coil at a time.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Remove the engine cover (if equipped)

• Grasp the cover and pull upward to release the rubber grommets. Use a trim removal tool if it’s tight.
• Set the cover aside where it won’t get scratched.

Step 2: Locate the coil you’re replacing

• Each coil sits directly on top of a spark plug along the valve covers (4 per side).
• Identify the coil by cylinder location if you’re tracking a misfire code (example: P0302 = cylinder 2).

Step 3: Unplug the coil electrical connector

• Use a small flathead screwdriver to gently lift the connector’s lock tab (if present), then press the release and pull the connector straight back.
• Tip: Wiggle the connector—don’t yank the wires.

Step 4: Remove the coil retaining bolt

• Use a 10mm socket, 3" socket extension, and 1/4" ratchet to remove the coil mounting bolt.
• Keep the bolt safe; you’ll reuse it.

Step 5: Remove the ignition coil

• Pull the coil straight up while gently twisting.
• If it feels stuck, keep twisting and pulling upward—don’t pry hard on the valve cover.

Step 6: Prep and install the new coil

• Put a very small amount of dielectric grease inside the new coil boot. (Dielectric grease is a silicone grease that helps seal out moisture and makes future removal easier.)
• Push the coil straight down onto the spark plug until it fully seats.

Step 7: Reinstall and torque the coil bolt

• Start the bolt by hand to avoid cross-threading.
• Use a torque wrench and 10mm socket: Torque to 8 Nm (71 in-lb).

Step 8: Reconnect the electrical connector

• Push the connector on until it clicks/locks.
• Give it a gentle tug to confirm it’s latched.

Step 9: Repeat for any other coils (if replacing more than one)

• Repeat Steps 2–8 for each additional coil.

Step 10: Reinstall the engine cover and reconnect the battery

• Press the engine cover back onto its grommets.
• Reconnect the negative battery cable using a 10mm socket. Snug it firmly (do not overtighten).

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✅ After Repair

• Start the engine and let it idle for 1–2 minutes. It should run smooth.
• Check for a check-engine light and listen for a steady idle.
• If you have a scan tool, clear stored misfire codes and confirm none return after a short test drive.
• If it still misfires, the issue may be the spark plug, injector, or wiring at that cylinder.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $180–$450 (parts + labor, depends on how many coils)

DIY Cost: $50–$480 (parts only, depending on 1 vs all 8)

You Save: $130–$250+ by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.8–1.5 hours.

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🎯 Ready to get started?

HowToo makes it easy: same-day/2-day shipping on every part, plus all the tools and specialty tools you need! Check out the parts and tools sections below to add everything to your cart.