How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2015-2020 Volvo S60 (Engine: Inline 5 2.5L)
Step-by-step DIY instructions with tools, parts, safety tips, and torque guidance
How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2015-2020 Volvo S60 (Engine: Inline 5 2.5L)
Step-by-step DIY instructions with tools, parts, safety tips, and torque guidance for 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020
🔧 Ignition Coils - Replacement
Your S60 uses individual coil-on-plug ignition coils, one per cylinder. Replacing a weak or failed coil can fix misfires, rough idle, hesitation, and check engine lights.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- Let the engine cool fully before starting. Coils sit on a hot cylinder head.
- Turn the ignition off and keep the key/fob away from the vehicle.
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal if you want the safest approach.
- Do not pull on the coil wiring. Use the connector tab to release each plug.
- If the engine has misfired badly, do not keep driving it. Fuel can damage the catalytic converter.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- 8mm socket
- 10mm socket
- Ratchet
- Short extension
- Trim tool
- Needle-nose pliers
- Torque wrench
- Safety glasses
- Mechanic gloves
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Ignition coil set - Qty: 4
- New spark plugs - Qty: 4
📋 Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
- Let the engine cool down completely.
- If the engine cover is fitted, remove it first.
- Work one coil at a time so the wiring stays organized.
- Tip: Take a quick photo before unplugging anything.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Remove the engine cover
- Use the 8mm socket or trim tool to remove the engine cover fasteners, if equipped.
- Lift the cover straight up and set it aside.
Step 2: Unplug the first ignition coil
- Use your fingers to press the connector lock tab on the coil electrical connector.
- Pull the connector straight off the coil.
- Tip: Wiggle gently, don’t force it.
Step 3: Remove the coil retaining fastener
- If your coil has a retaining bolt, use the 10mm socket and ratchet to remove it.
- Set the bolt aside where it will not get lost.
Step 4: Pull out the ignition coil
- Grip the coil and pull it straight upward out of the spark plug tube.
- If it sticks, gently twist it while lifting.
- Inspect the boot for oil, cracks, or swelling.
Step 5: Install the new ignition coil
- Push the new coil straight down until it seats fully on the spark plug.
- If the coil has a fastener, reinstall it with the 10mm socket.
- Torque to factory specification.
Step 6: Reconnect the coil connector
- Push the electrical connector onto the new coil until it clicks.
- Lightly tug the connector to make sure it is locked in place.
Step 7: Repeat for the remaining coils
- Repeat the same process for the other cylinders.
- If one coil failed from age, replacing all four is the best long-term fix.
Step 8: Reinstall the engine cover
- Set the cover back in place.
- Reinstall any fasteners with the 8mm socket or trim tool.
✅ After Repair
- Start the engine and let it idle.
- Make sure the idle is smooth and the check engine light is off.
- If the light stays on, scan and clear the misfire codes.
- Test drive gently and watch for hesitation or shaking.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $300-$700 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $120-$350 (parts only)
You Save: $180-$350 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.5-1 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.

















