🔧 Spark Plugs - Replacement

The spark plugs on your Equinox fire the air-fuel mix in the engine. Replacing them on schedule helps keep the engine smooth, improve fuel economy, and prevent misfires.

Difficulty Level: Intermediate | Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Work on a completely cool engine. Hot aluminum cylinder heads can be damaged easily.
• Disconnect the negative battery cable before removing ignition coils.
• Keep dirt out of the spark plug holes. Debris can damage the cylinder.
• Do not overtighten the plugs. Aluminum threads can strip fast.
• Label coil locations if needed.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• 10mm socket
• 3/8-inch ratchet
• 6-inch extension
• Spark plug socket (5/8-inch)
• Torque wrench
• Dielectric grease
• Compressed air
• Flat trim tool
• Safety glasses
• Mechanic gloves

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Spark plug set - Qty: 6

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
• Let the engine cool fully.
• Disconnect the negative battery cable using a 10mm socket.
• Remove the engine cover if equipped.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Remove the engine cover

• Use a flat trim tool to lift the engine cover straight up.
• Set it aside in a clean spot.

Step 2: Remove the ignition coil connectors

• Press the lock tab and unplug each coil connector by hand.
• If needed, use a flat trim tool gently on the lock tab.

Step 3: Remove the ignition coils

• Use a 10mm socket, 3/8-inch ratchet, and 6-inch extension to remove the coil hold-down bolts.
• Pull each ignition coil straight up and out.
• Twist slightly if a coil sticks.

Step 4: Clean the spark plug wells

• Use compressed air to blow dirt out of each plug well.
• Make sure no debris falls into the cylinders.

Step 5: Remove the spark plugs

• Use a spark plug socket (5/8-inch), 3/8-inch ratchet, and extension to loosen each plug.
• Turn each plug counterclockwise and remove it carefully.

Step 6: Install the new spark plugs

• Check the gap on each new plug if needed.
• Thread each plug in by hand first to avoid cross-threading.
• Use a torque wrench with the spark plug socket (5/8-inch) to tighten each plug to 25 Nm (18 ft-lbs).
• Hand-thread first every time.

Step 7: Reinstall the ignition coils

• Apply a small amount of dielectric grease inside each coil boot.
• Push each coil straight down onto the new plug.
• Install the coil bolts with a 10mm socket and tighten to 10 Nm (89 in-lbs).
• Reconnect each coil connector until it clicks.

Step 8: Reinstall the engine cover and battery cable

• Press the engine cover back into place.
• Reconnect the negative battery cable with a 10mm socket and tighten snugly.

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✅ After Repair

• Start the engine and let it idle smoothly.
• Listen for misfires, ticking, or rough running.
• Check the engine light. If it stays on, scan for codes.
• Take a short road test and make sure acceleration feels normal.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $250-$500 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $40-$120 (parts only)

You Save: $210-$380 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 2-4 hours.

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🎯 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.