🔧 Spark Plugs - Replacement

On your Versa, the spark plugs sit under the ignition coils on top of the engine. This job is straightforward, but you need to work carefully so you do not crack a coil boot or cross-thread a plug in the aluminum cylinder head.

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

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Work on a cool engine only. Hot aluminum threads can be damaged easily.
• Disconnect the negative battery cable before removing coils. The battery is a 12V system, so a wrench touch to metal can spark.
• Keep dirt out of the spark plug wells. Debris can fall into the cylinder.
• Do not use anti-seize on the plug threads unless the plug maker specifically calls for it.
• Do not over-tighten the new plugs. The cylinder head is aluminum and threads can strip.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• 10mm socket
• 3/8-inch ratchet
• 6-inch extension
• 5/8-inch spark plug socket
• Torque wrench
• Flat trim tool
• Needle-nose pliers
• Compressed air
• Gloves
• Safety glasses

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Spark plug set - Qty: 4

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
• Let the engine cool completely.
• Open the hood and remove the plastic engine cover if equipped.
• Disconnect the negative battery cable using a 10mm socket.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Remove the engine cover

• If your Versa has a plastic engine cover, lift it straight up by hand or use a flat trim tool if it is snug.
• Set it aside where it will not get scratched.

Step 2: Disconnect the battery

• Use a 10mm socket to loosen the negative battery terminal.
• Move the cable aside so it cannot spring back and touch the battery post.

Step 3: Remove the ignition coils

• Unplug each ignition coil connector by pressing the lock tab and pulling gently.
• Use a 10mm socket to remove the coil hold-down bolts.
• Lift each coil straight up. Twist gently if a boot feels stuck.
• Pull straight up to avoid tearing boots.

Step 4: Clean the spark plug wells

• Use compressed air to blow dirt out of each spark plug well.
• Make sure no grit is left around the plug opening.

Step 5: Remove the old spark plugs

• Use a 5/8-inch spark plug socket, 3/8-inch ratchet, and 6-inch extension to loosen each plug.
• Turn each plug counterclockwise and remove it by hand once loose.
• Check the old plugs for heavy oil, fuel, or white deposits. That can point to an engine issue.

Step 6: Install the new spark plugs

• Compare the new plugs to the old ones before installing.
• Thread each plug in by hand first to avoid cross-threading.
• Use the 5/8-inch spark plug socket only after the plug is fully seated by hand.
• Torque to 18 Nm (13 ft-lbs).
• Hand-start every plug first.

Step 7: Reinstall the ignition coils

• Push each coil straight down onto its spark plug.
• Install the coil bolts with a 10mm socket.
• Torque to 7 Nm (62 in-lbs).
• Reconnect each coil connector until it clicks.

Step 8: Reconnect the battery and finish up

• Reconnect the negative battery cable with a 10mm socket.
• Reinstall the engine cover if equipped.
• Make sure all tools are removed from the engine bay.

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✅ After Repair

• Start the engine and listen for smooth idle.
• Check that the Check Engine Light stays off.
• If the engine runs rough, recheck all coil connectors and plug seating.
• Take a short test drive and confirm normal acceleration.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $180-$350 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $40-$120 (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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