🔧 Soul - Spark Plug Replacement

On your Soul, the spark plugs sit at the top of the engine under the ignition coils (the pencil-shaped “coil packs”). Replacing them restores smooth starting, fuel economy, and helps prevent misfires.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1.5 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• ⚠️ Work on a fully cool engine to avoid burned hands and damaged plug threads.
• ⚠️ Keep dirt out of the plug holes—blow debris out before removing plugs.
• ⚠️ Do not pull on wiring; press the connector lock and pull the plug.
• ⚠️ Battery disconnect is not required, but if you choose to disconnect, remove the negative terminal first.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• 10mm socket
• 3/8" drive ratchet
• 3/8" drive extension set (3" and 6")
• 5/8" spark plug socket
• Torque wrench (3/8" drive, 5-30 ft-lbs range)
• Small flathead screwdriver
• Compressed air blow gun
• Feeler gauge set
• Clean shop towels
• Nitrile gloves
• Safety glasses

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Spark plugs (iridium type, correct fit for 1.6L) - Qty: 4
• Dielectric grease - Qty: 1

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground, shift to neutral, and set the parking brake.
• Let the engine cool completely (at least 1 hour after driving).
• Lay tools out in order and label coils 1-4 if you’re worried about mixing them up.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Access the ignition coils

• Open the hood and locate the ignition coils on top of the engine (one per cylinder).
• If a plastic engine cover is present, remove it by hand or remove fasteners using a 10mm socket.
• Move any small hoses/wiring looms aside gently (do not stretch them).

Step 2: Unplug and unbolt the first coil

• Press the electrical connector lock; if it’s stubborn, gently assist with a small flathead screwdriver.
• Remove the coil hold-down bolt using a 10mm socket and 3/8" drive ratchet.
• Twist the coil slightly, then pull it straight up to remove it. Twist first—don’t yank.
• (Definition) The “ignition coil” is the tube-like part that sits on top of the spark plug and makes the spark.

Step 3: Clean the spark plug well

• Blow out the area around the spark plug hole using compressed air blow gun.
• Wipe any loose grime with clean shop towels.

Step 4: Remove the old spark plug

• Install the 5/8" spark plug socket on a 3/8" drive extension and 3/8" drive ratchet.
• Turn counterclockwise to loosen and remove the plug.
• If it feels extremely tight, stop and apply steady pressure—do not force it hard on a warm engine.

Step 5: Check the new plug gap (only if applicable)

• Use a feeler gauge set to verify the gap matches the plug maker’s spec on the box.
• Most iridium plugs are “pre-gapped” and should not be bent/adjusted—replace if the gap is wrong.

Step 6: Install the new spark plug (thread by hand first)

• Place the new plug into the 5/8" spark plug socket (rubber insert holds it) and lower it into the hole using a 3/8" drive extension.
• Thread it in by hand using only the extension (no ratchet) until fully seated. Hand-thread prevents cross-threading.
• Finish tightening with a torque wrench: Torque to 18 Nm (13 ft-lbs).
• (Definition) A “torque wrench” tightens to a set force so you don’t strip threads or crack a plug.

Step 7: Reinstall the coil

• Apply a small dab of dielectric grease inside the coil boot (the rubber end that touches the plug).
• Push the coil straight down until you feel it seat.
• Install the coil bolt using a 10mm socket and snug it with a torque wrench: Torque to 9 Nm (80 in-lbs).
• Reconnect the electrical connector until it clicks.

Step 8: Repeat for the remaining cylinders

• Repeat Steps 2 through 7 for the other 3 spark plugs.
• Use clean shop towels to keep the area clean as you go.

Step 9: Reinstall covers and final check

• Reinstall the engine cover (if equipped) using a 10mm socket or by pressing it into its grommets.
• Do a quick visual check that every coil connector is fully seated.

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✅ After Repair

• Start the engine and let it idle for 30-60 seconds. It should run smooth.
• If you feel shaking or see a check-engine light, shut it off and re-check coil connectors and coil seating.
• Road test 5-10 minutes and confirm there’s no hesitation under light acceleration.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: ₹3,500-₹9,000 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: ₹2,000-₹5,500 (parts only)

You Save: ₹1,500-₹3,500 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run ₹800-₹2,000/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.7-1.2 hours.

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🎯 Ready to get started?

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