🔧 Ignition Coil Replacement

Your Explorer uses individual coil-on-plug ignition coils mounted directly on top of each spark plug. Replacing a bad coil can fix misfires, rough idle, hesitation, and flashing check engine lights.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 1-2 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Work on a cool engine only. Coils sit on top of the cylinder heads and can be hot.
• Disconnect the negative battery cable before unplugging coils to avoid setting misfire codes or accidental short circuits.
• Do not pull on the wire harness. Use the connector tab and remove each plug gently.
• If one coil failed from oil contamination, inspect the valve cover area for leaks before installing the new coil.
• Replace coils in pairs or as a full set if your scan tool shows multiple weak cylinders.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• 8mm socket
• 1/4-inch ratchet
• 1/4-inch extension
• Torque wrench
• Trim clip tool
• Dielectric grease
• Safety glasses
• Gloves

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Ignition coil - Qty: 6
• Dielectric grease - Qty: 1

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
• Let the engine cool completely.
• Disconnect the negative battery cable before starting.
• If you are replacing all coils, label the old coils by cylinder location so you can compare after removal.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Disconnect battery power

• Use an 8mm socket to remove the negative battery cable.
• Move the cable aside so it cannot touch the battery terminal.

Step 2: Remove the engine cover

• Pull up evenly on the engine cover to release it from its retainers.
• If it feels stuck, wiggle it gently instead of forcing it.

Step 3: Unplug the ignition coil

• Find the faulty coil on top of the engine.
• Press the connector lock tab and pull the electrical connector straight off.
• Do not pry on the plastic lock.

Step 4: Remove the coil retaining bolt

• Use an 8mm socket and 1/4-inch ratchet to remove the coil hold-down bolt.
• Keep the bolt in a safe place for reuse.
• Torque on installation: 8 Nm (71 in-lbs)

Step 5: Remove the ignition coil

• Twist the coil slightly to break it loose from the spark plug.
• Pull the coil straight up and out.
• If it sticks, use a gentle rocking motion. Do not yank hard.

Step 6: Install the new ignition coil

• Apply a small amount of dielectric grease inside the coil boot.
• Push the new coil straight down onto the spark plug until fully seated.
• Install the retaining bolt and tighten with a torque wrench to 8 Nm (71 in-lbs).

Step 7: Reconnect the electrical connector

• Push the connector onto the coil until it clicks locked in place.
• Give it a light tug to confirm it is secure.

Step 8: Reinstall the engine cover and battery cable

• Press the engine cover back into position.
• Reconnect the negative battery cable with an 8mm socket.

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✅ After Repair

• Start the engine and listen for a smooth idle.
• Check the engine light. If it stays on, scan for stored misfire codes.
• If you replaced one coil because of a misfire, clear the codes and road test the vehicle.
• If the misfire returns on the same cylinder, inspect the spark plug and wiring next.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $250-$700 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $120-$300 (parts only)

You Save: $130-$400 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 1-2 hours.

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🎯 Ready to get started?

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