How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2016 Kia Sportage (Fix Misfire & Rough Idle)
Step-by-step coil-on-plug replacement with tools, parts list, safety tips, and 8 Nm (71 in-lb) torque spec for 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016
How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2016 Kia Sportage (Fix Misfire & Rough Idle)
Step-by-step coil-on-plug replacement with tools, parts list, safety tips, and 8 Nm (71 in-lb) torque spec for 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016
đź”§ Sportage - Ignition Coil Replacement
Your Sportage uses one ignition coil per cylinder (coil-on-plug). Replacing a bad coil can fix misfires, rough idle, flashing check-engine light, and loss of power.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1.0 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- ⚠️ Work on a fully cool engine to avoid burns.
- ⚠️ Turn ignition OFF and keep the key/fob away from the vehicle.
- ⚠️ Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent accidental sparks.
- ⚠️ Do not pull on wiring—only pull on connectors.
đź”§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- 10mm socket
- 3/8" drive ratchet
- 3" socket extension
- Torque wrench (inch-pound or low-range Nm)
- Flat trim tool
- Needle-nose pliers
- Mechanic gloves
- Safety glasses
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Ignition coil - Qty: 4
- Dielectric grease - Qty: 1
đź“‹ Before You Begin
- Park on level ground, shift to Park, and set the parking brake.
- Let the engine cool completely.
- Disconnect the negative battery cable using a 10mm socket.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Remove the engine cover (if equipped)
- Pull straight up on the cover to pop it off the rubber grommets. Use a flat trim tool to gently help lift if it feels stuck.
- Lift evenly to avoid cracking it.
Step 2: Locate the ignition coils
- The coils sit on top of the valve cover, one per cylinder, each with an electrical connector and a single small hold-down bolt.
Step 3: Unplug the coil electrical connector
- Press the connector lock tab and pull the connector straight back.
- If the tab is stubborn, gently help it with a flat trim tool (don’t pry hard).
- Never pull on the wires.
Step 4: Remove the coil hold-down bolt
- Use a 10mm socket, 3" socket extension, and 3/8" drive ratchet to remove the bolt.
- Set the bolt aside where it won’t fall into the engine bay.
Step 5: Remove the ignition coil
- Twist the coil gently left-right to break the seal, then pull straight up to remove it.
- If it’s tight, wiggle more—avoid using excessive force.
Step 6: Prep and install the new coil
- Put a tiny smear of dielectric grease inside the new coil boot (the rubber sleeve). Dielectric grease is a non-conductive grease that helps prevent moisture and makes removal easier later.
- Push the new coil straight down onto the spark plug until it fully seats.
Step 7: Reinstall and torque the coil bolt
- Start the bolt by hand to avoid cross-threading.
- Tighten using a torque wrench (inch-pound or low-range Nm): Torque to 8 Nm (71 in-lbs).
Step 8: Reconnect the electrical connector
- Push the connector on until it clicks/locks.
Step 9: Repeat for the remaining coils
- Replace the other coils the same way (recommended if you’re doing all 4).
Step 10: Reinstall the engine cover and reconnect the battery
- Press the engine cover back onto its grommets until it seats.
- Reconnect the negative battery cable using a 10mm socket and snug it firmly.
âś… After Repair
- Start the engine and let it idle for 1-2 minutes. It should run smooth.
- Take a short test drive and check for hesitation or a flashing check-engine light.
- If the check-engine light was on for misfire, clear codes with a scan tool (optional) or it may clear on its own after a few drive cycles if the issue is fixed.
- Recheck that every connector is fully clicked in.
đź’° DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $250-$600 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $120-$400 (parts only)
You Save: $130-$200 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.
🎯 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.


















