🔧 Ignition Coils - Replacement

Your CX-5 uses four coil-on-plug ignition coils mounted on top of the engine. Replacing them is straightforward: unplug each coil, remove the hold-down bolt, and install the new coil with a fresh seal position and clean connector fit.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1.0 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Let the engine cool completely before starting. Coils and the valve cover area can get hot.
• Turn the ignition OFF and keep the key/fob away from the vehicle.
• Do not pull on the wire harness. Unplug connectors by the tab, not the wires.
• Keep dirt out of the spark plug wells while the coils are removed.
• No battery disconnect is required for this job.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• 8mm socket
• Ratchet
• Short extension
• Trim clip tool
• Dielectric grease
• Torque wrench (inch-pound)
• Safety glasses
• Nitrile gloves

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Ignition coil set - Qty: 4

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
• Let the engine cool fully before opening the hood.
• Open the hood and remove any engine cover if equipped.
• Work one coil at a time to avoid mix-ups.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Remove the engine cover

• If equipped, lift the engine cover straight up to release it.
• If it resists, use a gentle upward pull from both hands.

Step 2: Unplug the ignition coil connector

• Locate the ignition coil on top of the engine.
• Use your fingers to press the connector release tab and unplug the connector.
• Move the harness aside so it cannot fall back into place.

Step 3: Remove the coil hold-down bolt

• Use the 8mm socket, ratchet, and short extension to remove the coil bolt.
• Set the bolt aside where it will stay clean.
• Torque to 8 Nm (71 in-lbs) during reassembly.

Step 4: Remove the old ignition coil

• Pull the coil straight up out of the spark plug well.
• If it is stuck, wiggle it gently side to side while pulling upward.
• Inspect the rubber boot for oil, tears, or burn marks.

Step 5: Install the new ignition coil

• Compare the new coil to the old one to make sure they match.
• Apply a small amount of dielectric grease inside the rubber boot. Dielectric grease helps seal and protect the connection.
• Push the new coil straight down until it seats fully.
• Reinstall the hold-down bolt and tighten it with the torque wrench to 8 Nm (71 in-lbs).

Step 6: Reconnect the electrical connector

• Plug the connector back into the coil until it clicks.
• Lightly tug the connector to confirm it is locked in place.

Step 7: Repeat for the remaining coils

• Repeat Steps 2 through 6 for each remaining coil.
• Replace all four at once if one failed.

Step 8: Reinstall the engine cover

• Set the cover back in place and press down evenly until it seats.

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✅ After Repair

• Start the engine and let it idle.
• Listen for smooth idle and check that the check engine light is off.
• If the engine still runs rough, scan for codes and check the spark plugs next.
• Test drive the vehicle gently and recheck for misfire symptoms.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $300-$650 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $120-$320 (parts only)

You Save: $180-$330 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.5-1.0 hours.

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🎯 Ready to get started?

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