How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2012-2017 Jeep Wrangler (Fix Misfire & Rough Idle)
Step-by-step coil-on-plug replacement with tools, parts list, safety tips, and 71 in-lb (8 Nm) torque spec
How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2012-2017 Jeep Wrangler (Fix Misfire & Rough Idle)
Step-by-step coil-on-plug replacement with tools, parts list, safety tips, and 71 in-lb (8 Nm) torque spec for 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
đź”§ Wrangler - Ignition Coil Replacement
Your Wrangler uses coil-on-plug ignition coils (one coil per cylinder). Replacing a bad coil helps fix misfires, rough idle, flashing check-engine light, and loss of power.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1.5 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- ⚠️ Let the engine cool fully before starting to avoid burns.
- ⚠️ Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent accidental shorting.
- ⚠️ Do not pull on wiring; unplug connectors by the release tab only.
- ⚠️ Keep dirt out of spark plug holes; contamination can cause misfires.
đź”§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- 10mm socket
- 1/4" drive ratchet
- 3" socket extension
- Torque wrench (in-lb or low-range ft-lb)
- Flat trim tool
- Pick tool
- Shop rags
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Ignition coil - Qty: 1-6
- Dielectric grease - Qty: 1
đź“‹ Before You Begin
- Park on level ground, shift to neutral, set the parking brake, and chock a wheel.
- Open the hood and let the engine cool completely.
- Disconnect the battery negative terminal using a 10mm socket and move the cable aside so it can’t spring back.
- Tip: Take a quick photo of hose routing first.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Remove the engine cover (if equipped)
- Grip the cover and pull straight upward to release the rubber grommets.
- If clips resist, use a flat trim tool to gently pry at the corners.
Step 2: Make room to access the coils (if needed)
- If the air intake tube blocks access, loosen/remove any fasteners using a 10mm socket and 1/4" drive ratchet.
- Move the tube aside carefully without stressing hoses or wiring.
Step 3: Unplug the ignition coil electrical connector
- Press the connector release tab and pull the connector straight off.
- If the tab is stubborn, use a pick tool to help lift the lock gently (don’t break it).
- Tip: Wiggle the connector—don’t yank the wires.
Step 4: Remove the ignition coil retaining bolt
- Remove the coil bolt using a 10mm socket, 3" socket extension, and 1/4" drive ratchet.
- Set the bolt somewhere safe so it doesn’t fall into the engine bay.
Step 5: Remove the ignition coil
- Twist the coil slightly to break the seal, then pull it straight upward.
- If it’s stuck, keep twisting gently—don’t use excessive prying.
- Wipe the coil mounting area with shop rags to remove dust.
Step 6: Prepare and install the new ignition coil
- Apply a small pea-sized amount of dielectric grease inside the new coil boot (the rubber sleeve). Dielectric grease helps prevent moisture intrusion and makes future removal easier.
- Push the coil straight down onto the spark plug until it seats firmly.
Step 7: Reinstall the coil bolt and torque it
- Start the bolt by hand to avoid cross-threading.
- Tighten using a 10mm socket, then finish with a torque wrench (in-lb or low-range ft-lb).
- 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 fully seated.
Step 9: Repeat for any other coils being replaced
- Follow the same steps for each cylinder you’re servicing.
- Tip: Do one coil at a time to avoid mix-ups.
Step 10: Reassemble and reconnect the battery
- Reinstall the intake tube/fasteners using a 10mm socket and 1/4" drive ratchet.
- Reinstall the engine cover by pressing it straight down into the grommets.
- Reconnect the negative battery cable using a 10mm socket (snug, not over-tight).
âś… After Repair
- Start the engine and let it idle for 1-2 minutes. It should run smooth with no shaking.
- If you had a check-engine light for a misfire, clear the codes with a scan tool if available (many lights will also clear after a few good drive cycles if the problem is fixed).
- Test drive for 10-15 minutes and recheck for warning lights.
- If a misfire remains, the next common checks are spark plugs and injector/connector issues on that cylinder.
đź’° DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $200-$650 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $35-$360 (parts only)
You Save: $165-$290+ 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.
🎯 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.
Assumption: stock intake/engine cover layout.
Guide for Ignition Coil replace for these Jeep vehicles
| Year Make Model | Sub Model | Engine | Body Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 Jeep Wrangler | - | - | - |
| 2016 Jeep Wrangler | - | - | - |
| 2015 Jeep Wrangler | - | - | - |
| 2014 Jeep Wrangler | - | - | - |
| 2013 Jeep Wrangler | - | - | - |
| 2012 Jeep Wrangler | - | - | - |


















