🔧 Trax - Ignition Coil Replacement

Your Trax uses one ignition coil per cylinder to fire the spark plugs. Replacing a weak coil can fix misfires, rough idle, and flashing check-engine symptoms, and it’s a straightforward job on this engine.

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

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• ⚠️ Let the engine cool fully before starting (hot turbo/engine parts burn).
• ⚠️ Keep the ignition OFF and the key away from the vehicle while unplugging coils.
• ⚠️ If you disconnect the battery, use a 10mm wrench and remove the negative terminal first.
• ⚠️ Do not pull on wiring—release the connector lock and pull the plug body.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• 8mm socket
• 1/4" drive ratchet
• 1/4" drive extension (3"-6")
• Torque wrench (inch-pound)
• Trim clip tool
• Small flat-blade screwdriver
• Nitrile gloves
• Safety glasses

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Ignition coil - Qty: 1 (or Qty: 4 if replacing all)
• Dielectric grease (optional) - Qty: 1

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
• Open the hood and let the engine cool.
• If you’ve had a flashing check-engine light or strong misfire, avoid driving until repaired.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Remove the engine cover (if equipped)

• Grab the cover near the corners and pull upward to release it from the rubber grommets.
• If a fastener is present on your cover, remove it using an 8mm socket with a 1/4" drive ratchet.

Step 2: Locate the ignition coils

• The coils sit on top of the valve cover, one per cylinder, with an electrical connector on each.

Step 3: Unplug the coil electrical connector

• Use a small flat-blade screwdriver to gently help lift the connector lock if it’s stuck.
• Press the release tab and pull the connector straight off.
• Don’t yank the wires—pull the plastic plug.

Step 4: Remove the ignition coil retaining bolt

• Remove the coil bolt using an 8mm socket, 1/4" drive ratchet, and extension.
• Set the bolt aside where it won’t fall into the engine bay.

Step 5: Remove the ignition coil

• Twist the coil slightly left-right to break the seal, then pull it straight up.
• If it feels stuck, use a trim clip tool gently under the coil ear as a lever (do not pry on the connector).

Step 6: Install the new ignition coil

• If you’re using it, apply a tiny smear of dielectric grease inside the rubber boot (this helps prevent moisture and makes removal easier later).
• Line the coil up with the spark plug hole and push down firmly until fully seated.

Step 7: Reinstall the coil bolt and torque it

• Thread the bolt in by hand first to avoid cross-threading.
• Tighten using an 8mm socket.
• Torque to 10 Nm (89 in-lbs) using a torque wrench (inch-pound).

Step 8: Reconnect the electrical connector

• Push the connector on until it clicks/locks into place.
• Give it a gentle tug to confirm it’s secure.

Step 9: Repeat for other cylinders (if replacing more than one)

• Repeat Steps 3-8 for each remaining coil you’re replacing.
• Replace all four if they’re the same age.

Step 10: Reinstall the engine cover

• Press the cover straight down onto the grommets until it snaps in place.

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✅ After Repair

• Start the engine and let it idle for 1-2 minutes. It should run smooth with no shaking.
• If the check-engine light was on, it may take a few drive cycles to clear on its own, or you can clear it with a scan tool.
• Test drive 10-15 minutes. Recheck for any warning lights or rough running.
• If it still misfires, the next common items are spark plugs or a wiring/connector issue at that cylinder.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $200-$550 (parts + labor, depending on 1 coil vs all 4)

DIY Cost: $40-$300 (parts only, depending on 1 coil vs all 4)

You Save: $160-$250+ 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?

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.