🔧 Ignition Coils - Replacement

The ignition coils on your XC90 sit on top of the engine and send high-voltage spark to each plug. If one fails, you may get misfires, rough running, poor power, or a check engine light.

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 ignition components can be hot.
• Turn the ignition off and keep the key/fob away from the vehicle.
• Disconnect the negative battery terminal if you want the safest setup. This is recommended.
• Do not pull on the wiring. Always release the connector lock first.
• Keep dirt out of the spark plug wells. Debris can damage the plug or cylinder.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• 8mm socket
• 10mm socket
• Ratchet
• 1/4-inch extension
• Torque wrench
• Trim panel tool
• Pick tool
• Dielectric grease
• Safety glasses
• Nitrile gloves

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Ignition coil - Qty: 4

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
• Make sure the engine is fully cool.
• If you are replacing only one bad coil, it is still smart to inspect the spark plugs.
• If the engine has been misfiring for a while, damaged spark plugs may have caused the coil failure.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Disconnect power

• Open the hood and use a 10mm socket to disconnect the negative battery cable.
• Move the cable aside so it cannot spring back and touch the battery.

Step 2: Remove the engine cover

• Lift off the engine cover by hand if it is clipped on.
• If yours is tight, use a trim panel tool to gently release it.

Step 3: Unplug each ignition coil

• Find the coils on top of the engine.
• Use a pick tool to release the connector lock, if equipped.
• Press the connector tab and pull the plug straight off each coil.

Step 4: Remove the coil retaining bolts

• Use an 8mm socket and ratchet to remove the coil hold-down bolts.
• Set the bolts aside in order so they do not get lost.
• Torque to 8 Nm (71 in-lbs) on installation.

Step 5: Remove the old coils

• Twist each coil gently, then pull it straight up.
• If a coil is stuck, wiggle it lightly. Do not pry hard against the valve cover.

Step 6: Install the new coils

• Apply a small amount of dielectric grease inside the coil boot.
• Push each new coil straight down onto the spark plug until fully seated.
• Reinstall the retaining bolts by hand first, then snug them with the 8mm socket.
• Torque to 8 Nm (71 in-lbs).

Step 7: Reconnect the wiring

• Push each electrical connector onto its coil until it clicks.
• Make sure every connector lock is fully seated.

Step 8: Reinstall the engine cover and battery cable

• Snap the engine cover back into place.
• Reconnect the negative battery cable with a 10mm socket.
• Torque to 5 Nm (44 in-lbs) if you want a snug terminal connection without over-tightening.

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✅ After Repair

• Start the engine and let it idle.
• Listen for smooth operation and watch for a check engine light.
• If the light was on before, clear codes with a scan tool and verify the misfire is gone.
• If the engine still runs rough, inspect the spark plugs next.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $350-$700 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $140-$320 (parts only)

You Save: $210-$380 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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