How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2012-2017 Ford F-150 (Trim: XL | Engine: V8 5.0L)
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, torque specs, and safety tips
How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2012-2017 Ford F-150 (Trim: XL | Engine: V8 5.0L)
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, torque specs, and safety tips for 2012, 2013, 2014
🔧 Ignition Coils - Replacement
The ignition coils on your F-150 fire the spark plugs. If one fails, you can get a rough idle, misfires, poor fuel economy, or a check engine light. This job is straightforward because the coils sit on top of the engine and can be replaced one at a time.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- Let the engine cool completely before starting. The coil area can be very hot.
- Disconnect the negative battery cable before touching the ignition system.
- Do not pull on ignition coil wires or harness connectors by force.
- Keep dirt and debris out of the spark plug wells.
- If a coil boot is stuck to a spark plug, remove it carefully so it does not tear.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- 8mm socket
- Ratchet
- Extension
- Trim tool
- Needle-nose pliers
- Torque wrench
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Ignition coil - Qty: 6
📋 Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
- Shut the engine off and let it cool.
- Disconnect the negative battery cable.
- Replace coils in a set only if multiple are weak or failed.
- Tip: Label the coils if you remove them one by one.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Disconnect battery power
- Use an 8mm socket to remove the negative battery cable.
- Move the cable aside so it cannot touch the battery terminal.
Step 2: Remove the engine cover
- Pull up gently on the engine cover to remove it.
- If it feels stuck, use a trim tool to help lift evenly.
Step 3: Access the ignition coils
- Locate the coil packs on top of the engine.
- Each coil sits directly over a spark plug.
- Tip: Work on one coil at a time.
Step 4: Unplug the coil connector
- Press the locking tab on the connector.
- Use your fingers or needle-nose pliers if needed to release the plug gently.
- Do not pull on the wires.
Step 5: Remove the coil retaining bolt
- Use an 8mm socket and ratchet to remove the coil hold-down bolt.
- Keep the bolt in a safe place.
- Torque on installation: 8 Nm (71 in-lbs)
Step 6: Remove the ignition coil
- Twist the coil slightly to break it free.
- Pull the coil straight up out of the spark plug well.
- If the boot stays on the spark plug, remove it carefully with needle-nose pliers.
Step 7: Install the new ignition coil
- Compare the new coil to the old one before installing.
- Push the new coil straight down onto the spark plug.
- Install the retaining bolt by hand first.
- Use a torque wrench and 8mm socket to tighten to 8 Nm (71 in-lbs).
Step 8: Reconnect the electrical connector
- Push the connector in until it clicks.
- Lightly tug it to make sure it is locked.
Step 9: Repeat for all needed coils
- Repeat the same steps for each coil you are replacing.
- If you are replacing only one coil, inspect the others for cracks or oil contamination.
Step 10: Reinstall the engine cover and battery cable
- Press the engine cover back into place.
- Reconnect the negative battery cable with an 8mm socket.
- Tighten it snugly.
✅ After Repair
- Start the engine and listen for smooth idle.
- Check that the check engine light is off.
- If the light stays on, scan for misfire codes.
- Take a short test drive and make sure the engine accelerates smoothly.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $350-$700 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $180-$420 (parts only)
You Save: $170-$280 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 1-2 hours.
🎯 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.
Guide for Ignition Coil replace for these Ford vehicles
| Year Make Model | Sub Model | Engine | Body Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 Ford F-150 | King Ranch | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2017 Ford F-150 | Lariat | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2017 Ford F-150 | Platinum | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2017 Ford F-150 | XL | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2017 Ford F-150 | XLT | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2017 Ford F-150 | Limited | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2017 Ford F-150 | SSV | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2017 Ford F-150 | Raptor | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2016 Ford F-150 | King Ranch | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2016 Ford F-150 | Lariat | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2016 Ford F-150 | Platinum | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2016 Ford F-150 | XL | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2016 Ford F-150 | XLT | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2016 Ford F-150 | Limited | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2016 Ford F-150 | SSV | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2015 Ford F-150 | King Ranch | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2015 Ford F-150 | Lariat | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2015 Ford F-150 | Platinum | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2015 Ford F-150 | XL | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2015 Ford F-150 | XLT | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2014 Ford F-150 | FX2 | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2014 Ford F-150 | FX4 | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2014 Ford F-150 | King Ranch | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2014 Ford F-150 | Lariat | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2014 Ford F-150 | Platinum | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2014 Ford F-150 | XL | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2014 Ford F-150 | XLT | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2014 Ford F-150 | Limited | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2013 Ford F-150 | FX2 | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2013 Ford F-150 | FX4 | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2013 Ford F-150 | King Ranch | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2013 Ford F-150 | Lariat | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2013 Ford F-150 | Platinum | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2013 Ford F-150 | XL | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2013 Ford F-150 | XLT | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2013 Ford F-150 | Limited | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2012 Ford F-150 | FX2 | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2012 Ford F-150 | FX4 | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2012 Ford F-150 | King Ranch | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2012 Ford F-150 | Lariat | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2012 Ford F-150 | Platinum | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2012 Ford F-150 | XL | V6 3.5L | - |
| 2012 Ford F-150 | XLT | V6 3.5L | - |


















