How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2018 Nissan Armada (Coil-on-Plug Guide)
Step-by-step instructions with required tools/parts, safety tips, access notes, and post-repair checks
How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2018 Nissan Armada (Coil-on-Plug Guide)
Step-by-step instructions with required tools/parts, safety tips, access notes, and post-repair checks


🔧 Armada - Ignition Coil Replacement
On your Armada, each cylinder has its own ignition coil (coil-on-plug) that sits directly on top of the spark plug. Replacing a coil is usually straightforward, but access can vary depending on which cylinder (some can require removing the upper intake assembly).
Difficulty Level: Intermediate | Estimated Time: 0.5-3.0 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- ⚠️ Work on a cool engine to avoid burns.
- ⚠️ Keep the key away from the vehicle while unplugging ignition components.
- ⚠️ Disconnect the negative battery cable before unplugging coils to reduce risk of shorting electronics.
- ⚠️ Don’t pull on wiring; release the connector lock tab first.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- 10mm socket
- 1/4" drive ratchet
- 6" extension (1/4" drive)
- Trim clip removal tool
- Small flat-blade screwdriver
- Torque wrench (inch-pound)
- Torque wrench (foot-pound)
- Needle-nose pliers
- Flashlight
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Ignition coil - Qty: 1 (or Qty: 8 if replacing all)
- Dielectric grease - Qty: 1
- Spark plugs - Qty: 8 (optional, if due)
📋 Before You Begin
- Park on level ground, shift to Park, and set the parking brake.
- Open the hood and let the engine fully cool.
- Disconnect the negative battery cable using a 10mm socket.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Confirm which coil(s) you’re replacing
- Some coils are easy to reach; others may require removing the upper intake assembly.
- Tell me if you’re replacing one coil (and which cylinder/misfire code like P0301–P0308) or all eight.
Step 2: Remove the engine cover (if equipped)
- Remove any retaining fasteners using a 10mm socket (if present), then lift the cover off by hand.
Step 3: Gain access to the coil
- Use a trim clip removal tool to release any intake duct clips and move hoses/wiring aside gently.
- If you need to loosen a hose clamp, use a small flat-blade screwdriver.
Step 4: Unplug the coil electrical connector
- Press the connector lock tab (sometimes called a “release tab,” meaning the small latch that holds the plug on) and pull the connector straight off.
- If the tab is stubborn, carefully assist with a small flat-blade screwdriver (don’t break the tab).
Step 5: Remove the coil hold-down bolt
- Remove the coil bolt using a 10mm socket, 1/4" drive ratchet, and 6" extension.
- Lift the coil straight up to remove it.
Step 6: Install the new coil
- Apply a tiny smear of dielectric grease inside the new coil boot (the rubber sleeve that seals to the spark plug).
- Push the coil straight down until fully seated on the spark plug.
- Reinstall the bolt using a 10mm socket and snug it evenly.
- Reinstall the connector until it clicks.
Step 7: Reassemble and reconnect the battery
- Reinstall any ducts/clips you moved using the trim clip removal tool.
- Reinstall the engine cover.
- Reconnect the negative battery cable using a 10mm socket.
✅ After Repair
- Start the engine and verify it idles smoothly.
- If you had a check engine light, confirm the misfire is gone after a short test drive.
- If the light returns, the next checks are spark plug condition and coil connector/wiring fitment.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $250-$900 (parts + labor, depending on how many coils and access)
DIY Cost: $60-$640 (parts only, depending on how many coils)
You Save: $190-$260+ by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.5-3.0 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.
Quick questions so I can give you the exact steps + correct torque specs for your Armada:
- 🧰 Are you replacing one coil or all eight?
- 🔎 If it’s one coil, what misfire code are you seeing (example: P0306)?

















