How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2016 Toyota Tacoma
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, torque specs, and safety tips for 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023
How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2016 Toyota Tacoma
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, torque specs, and safety tips for 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023
🔧 Ignition Coils - Replacement
Your Tacoma uses one ignition coil on each spark plug. Replacing a weak coil can fix misfires, rough idle, hesitation, and check engine light issues.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- Let the engine cool fully before starting. Coils sit on top of a hot engine.
- Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent accidental shorts.
- Do not pull on the wiring; use the connector release tab.
- If a coil boot is stuck in the spark plug tube, remove it carefully so it does not tear.
- Keep dirt out of the spark plug wells.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- 10mm socket
- 1/4-inch ratchet
- 1/4-inch extension
- Trim clip removal tool
- Flat blade trim tool
- Torque wrench
- Gloves
- Safety glasses
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Ignition coil set - Qty: 6
📋 Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
- Let the engine cool.
- Disconnect the negative battery cable with a 10mm socket.
- If only one coil failed, it is still smart to inspect the spark plugs in that bank.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Remove the engine cover and intake tube access parts
- Use a flat blade trim tool to release the engine cover, if equipped.
- If the intake duct blocks access, loosen the clamps with a screwdriver or the correct socket and move it aside.
- Keep all hardware organized.
Step 2: Disconnect the coil electrical connector
- Find the ignition coil on top of the cylinder head.
- Press the release tab and unplug the connector by hand.
- Do not yank the wires.
Step 3: Remove the ignition coil
- Use a 10mm socket and 1/4-inch ratchet with extension to remove the coil hold-down bolt.
- Twist the coil slightly, then pull it straight up and out.
- If the boot sticks, wiggle gently until it releases.
Step 4: Install the new ignition coil
- Compare the old and new coil to confirm they match.
- Push the new coil straight into the spark plug tube until fully seated.
- Install the hold-down bolt by hand first, then tighten with the 10mm socket.
- Torque to 7.5 Nm (66 in-lbs).
Step 5: Reconnect the connector and reassemble
- Plug the electrical connector back in until it clicks.
- Reinstall any intake ducting or engine cover you removed.
- Reconnect the negative battery cable with the 10mm socket.
Step 6: Repeat for any other failed coils
- If multiple coils are bad, replace them one at a time.
- For a cylinder misfire, inspect the matching spark plug too.
✅ After Repair
- Start the engine and listen for smooth idle.
- Clear any stored misfire codes with a scan tool if needed.
- Test drive the truck and confirm the check engine light stays off.
- If a misfire returns, the spark plug or injector may also need inspection.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $450-$900 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $180-$420 (parts only)
You Save: $270-$480 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 1-2 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.


















