🔧 Spark Plugs - Replacement

Your CR-V uses 4 spark plugs mounted in the top of the engine. Replacing them helps restore smooth idle, strong acceleration, and fuel economy when the plugs are worn. This is a straightforward job, but take care not to drop anything into the plug holes.

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

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Let the engine cool completely before starting. The engine cover and ignition coils can stay hot.
• Work on a level surface with the parking brake set.
• Keep dirt out of the spark plug wells. Debris can damage the engine if it falls into the cylinders.
• Do not overtighten new plugs. The aluminum cylinder head can be damaged.
• Battery disconnect is not required, but turning the ignition off is mandatory.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• 10mm socket
• Ratchet
• 6-inch extension
• 5/8-inch spark plug socket
• Torque wrench
• Trim tool
• Compressed air
• Gloves
• Safety glasses

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Spark plugs - Qty: 4

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and let the engine cool down fully.
• Open the hood and make sure you have room to work.
• Have all 4 new spark plugs ready before removing the old ones.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Remove the engine cover

• Pull up gently on the engine cover to release it from its rubber mounts.
• Set it aside in a safe spot.

Step 2: Clean around the ignition coils

• Use compressed air to blow dirt away from the top of the engine and the spark plug wells.
• Keep debris out of the cylinders.

Step 3: Remove the ignition coil connectors

• Press the release tab on each coil connector and unplug it.
• Work one coil at a time so you do not mix them up.

Step 4: Remove the ignition coils

• Use a 10mm socket and ratchet to remove the coil hold-down bolts.
• Lift each ignition coil straight up and out.
• Set the coils aside in order.

Step 5: Remove the old spark plugs

• Use a 5/8-inch spark plug socket, 6-inch extension, and ratchet to loosen each plug.
• Turn counterclockwise and remove all 4 plugs.
• Inspect the old plugs for heavy wear, oil fouling, or white deposits.

Step 6: Install the new spark plugs

• Thread each new plug in by hand first to avoid cross-threading.
• Use the 5/8-inch spark plug socket and torque wrench to tighten each plug to 18 Nm (13 ft-lbs).
• Start them by hand every time.

Step 7: Reinstall the ignition coils

• Push each ignition coil back into place.
• Reinstall the coil bolts with the 10mm socket.
• Tighten each bolt to 12 Nm (9 ft-lbs).
• Reconnect each coil connector until it clicks.

Step 8: Reinstall the engine cover

• Align the cover and press it down onto the mounting points.
• Make sure it sits flat and secure.

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✅ After Repair

• Start the engine and let it idle for a minute.
• Listen for smooth operation and check for a check engine light.
• Take a short test drive to confirm normal acceleration.
• If the engine runs rough, recheck that every coil connector is fully seated.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $180-$320 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $40-$90 (parts only)

You Save: $140-$230 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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