How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2016 Lexus GS350 (Fix Misfire & Rough Idle)
Step-by-step DIY instructions with required tools/parts, safety tips, and 10 Nm (89 in-lbs) torque spec
How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2016 Lexus GS350 (Fix Misfire & Rough Idle)
Step-by-step DIY instructions with required tools/parts, safety tips, and 10 Nm (89 in-lbs) torque spec
🔧 GS350 - Ignition Coil Replacement
Your GS350 uses one ignition coil per cylinder (6 total). Replacing a bad coil can fix misfires, rough idle, flashing check-engine light, and loss of power.
Difficulty Level: Intermediate | Estimated Time: 1.0-2.5 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- ⚠️ Work on a fully cool engine to avoid burns and damaged connectors.
- ⚠️ If the check-engine light is flashing, avoid driving until repaired (can damage the catalytic converters).
- ⚠️ Disconnect the negative battery cable to reduce the chance of shorting or setting extra faults.
- ⚠️ Pull on connector housings, not wires (prevents broken wiring).
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- 10mm socket
- 1/4" drive ratchet
- 3" extension (1/4" drive)
- 6" extension (1/4" drive)
- Universal swivel joint (1/4" drive)
- Torque wrench (inch-pound)
- Trim clip removal tool
- Small flathead screwdriver
- Needle-nose pliers
- Shop light
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Ignition coils - Qty: 6 (replace only failed coils if desired)
- Dielectric grease - Qty: 1
📋 Before You Begin
- Park on level ground, shift to Park, and set the parking brake.
- Open the hood and let the engine cool completely.
- Use a 10mm socket to disconnect the negative battery cable and isolate it so it can’t spring back.
- Take a quick photo of each connector layout.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Remove the engine cover
- Grip the cover and pull upward to release the grommets (rubber push-in mounts).
- If any plastic clips or small covers block access, remove them with a trim clip removal tool.
Step 2: Unplug the ignition coil electrical connector
- At the coil, press the connector release tab and pull the connector straight off.
- If it’s stuck, gently help the tab with a small flathead screwdriver (don’t pry hard).
- Wiggle the connector—don’t yank the wires.
Step 3: Remove the ignition coil hold-down bolt
- Use a 10mm socket with a 1/4" drive ratchet and the 3" or 6" extension to remove the bolt.
- For tight coils, add a universal swivel joint (1/4" drive) to angle the socket.
Step 4: Remove the old coil
- Twist the coil slightly to break the seal, then pull it straight up and out.
- If it’s very tight, rotate more and pull upward evenly (avoid side-loading the coil boot).
Step 5: Prep and install the new coil
- Apply a small smear of dielectric grease inside the coil boot (the rubber tube that seals to the spark plug).
- Push the new coil straight down until it fully seats on the spark plug.
- Reinstall the hold-down bolt by hand first (prevents cross-threading).
- Tighten with a torque wrench: Torque to 10 Nm (89 in-lbs).
Step 6: Reconnect the coil connector
- Push the connector on until it clicks.
- Do a gentle tug check to confirm it’s locked.
Step 7: Repeat for remaining coils
- Repeat Steps 2–6 for each coil you’re replacing.
- If access is tight on the rear bank, use the shop light, 6" extension, and swivel joint to keep the socket straight on the bolt.
Step 8: Reinstall the engine cover and reconnect battery
- Press the engine cover back onto its mounting grommets.
- Reconnect the negative battery cable using a 10mm socket (snug, do not over-tighten).
✅ After Repair
- Start the engine and let it idle for 1–2 minutes. It should be smooth (no shaking).
- Verify the check-engine light is off. If it stays on, it may need clearing after the repair.
- Take a short test drive and recheck for warning lights or new symptoms.
- If you still have a misfire, the next common cause is spark plugs or a fuel/air issue.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $300-$750 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $180-$600 (parts only, depending on how many coils)
You Save: $120-$300+ by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 1.0-2.0 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.
















