How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2013-2018 Ram 1500 (Engine: V6 3.6L)
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, safety tips, and torque specs
How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2013-2018 Ram 1500 (Engine: V6 3.6L)
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, safety tips, and torque specs for 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018
🔧 Ignition Coils - Replacement
The ignition coils on your Ram sit on top of the spark plugs and provide the high voltage needed to fire each cylinder. If you have a misfire, rough idle, or flashing check engine light, replacing a bad coil can fix it fast.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- Work on a cool engine only. Ignition coils sit on top of the engine and can be hot after driving.
- Turn the key off and remove it before starting.
- Disconnect the negative battery cable if you want extra safety while unplugging coils.
- Keep dirt out of the spark plug wells. Debris can fall into the engine and cause damage.
- Do not pull on the wire harness. Always release the connector lock first.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- 8mm socket
- 1/4-inch ratchet
- 1/4-inch extension
- Trim clip tool
- Flat-blade screwdriver
- Torque wrench
- Gloves
- Safety glasses
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Ignition coil - Qty: 1 per failed cylinder
- Spark plugs - Qty: 6 if replacing all
- Dielectric grease - Qty: 1
📋 Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
- Let the engine cool fully.
- If you are replacing one coil, note which cylinder set a misfire code.
- Tip: Replace worn spark plugs at the same time.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Disconnect power
- Use a 10mm wrench to disconnect the negative battery cable.
- Set the cable aside so it cannot touch the battery terminal.
Step 2: Remove engine cover
- If equipped, lift off the plastic engine cover by hand.
- If it feels stuck, use a trim clip tool to gently release any retainers.
Step 3: Access the coil
- Locate the ignition coil on top of the cylinder you are servicing.
- Use an 8mm socket with a 1/4-inch ratchet and extension to remove the coil hold-down bolt.
Step 4: Unplug the coil
- Use a flat-blade screwdriver to gently lift the connector lock if needed.
- Press the release tab and pull the connector straight off the coil.
- Tip: Wiggle lightly, don’t force it.
Step 5: Remove the old coil
- Pull the coil straight up out of the spark plug well by hand.
- If it sticks, twist slightly while pulling upward.
Step 6: Inspect the spark plug well
- Look for oil, water, or debris in the plug tube.
- If dirt is present, clean it out before installing the new coil.
Step 7: Install the new coil
- Apply a small amount of dielectric grease inside the coil boot.
- Push the new coil straight down onto the spark plug until fully seated.
- Install the coil hold-down bolt with the 8mm socket.
- Torque to 9 Nm (80 in-lbs).
Step 8: Reconnect the connector
- Push the electrical connector onto the coil until it clicks.
- Make sure the lock tab is fully seated.
Step 9: Reassemble and repeat
- Reinstall the engine cover if equipped.
- Repeat the same steps for any other coils being replaced.
✅ After Repair
- Reconnect the negative battery cable with a 10mm wrench.
- Start the engine and let it idle.
- Check for rough running, warning lights, or misfire symptoms.
- If the check engine light was on, clear codes with a scan tool and recheck after a short drive.
- If you replaced one coil, consider replacing the spark plugs soon if they are worn.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $180-$450 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $40-$180 (parts only)
You Save: $140-$270 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 Ram vehicles
| Year Make Model | Sub Model | Engine | Body Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 Ram 1500 | - | V6 3.6L | - |
| 2017 Ram 1500 | - | V6 3.6L | - |
| 2016 Ram 1500 | - | V6 3.6L | - |
| 2015 Ram 1500 | - | V6 3.6L | - |
| 2014 Ram 1500 | - | V6 3.6L | - |
| 2013 Ram 1500 | - | V6 3.6L | - |


















