🔧 Encore - Spark Plug Replacement

Replacing the spark plugs helps your Encore start easier, idle smoother, and prevent misfires under boost. On the 1.4L turbo, the plugs sit under the ignition coil pack on top of the engine.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.8-1.5 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• ⚠️ Work on a fully cool engine to avoid burns and damaged threads.
• ⚠️ Keep dirt out of the spark plug holes; debris can damage the engine.
• ⚠️ If you disconnect the battery, use a 10mm wrench and remove the negative terminal first.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Safety glasses
• Nitrile gloves
• 10mm socket
• 3/8" drive ratchet
• 3/8" drive extension set (3" and 6")
• 5/8" (16mm) spark plug socket
• Torque wrench (ft-lb range)
• Feeler gauge set (inch)
• Small flathead screwdriver
• Compressed air blow gun

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Spark plugs (iridium, correct for 1.4L turbo) - Qty: 4
• Dielectric grease packet - Qty: 1

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground, shift to Park, and set the parking brake.
• Let the engine cool completely (at least 1 hour).
• If you’re nervous about unplugging ignition wiring, disconnect the battery negative terminal using a 10mm wrench.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Remove the engine cover

• Pull up firmly on the plastic engine cover to pop it off its rubber grommets.

Step 2: Unplug the ignition coil electrical connector

• Locate the ignition coil pack on top of the engine (one long unit feeding all 4 plugs).
• Use a small flathead screwdriver to gently release the connector lock (do not pry hard).
• Pull the connector straight off.

Step 3: Remove the ignition coil pack

• Use a 10mm socket with a 3/8" drive ratchet to remove the coil pack mounting bolts.
• Lift the coil pack straight up to remove it.
• Wiggle gently; don’t yank on the wiring.
• Set the coil pack aside in a clean area.

Step 4: Clean the spark plug wells

• Blow out each spark plug hole using a compressed air blow gun.
• This prevents dirt from falling into the engine when the plug comes out.

Step 5: Remove the old spark plugs

• Use a 5/8" (16mm) spark plug socket, 3/8" drive extension, and 3/8" drive ratchet.
• Turn counterclockwise to loosen, then remove each plug.
• If one feels stuck, stop and tighten slightly, then loosen again to avoid thread damage.

Step 6: Check and set the gap on the new plugs

• Use a feeler gauge set (inch) to verify the spark plug gap is 0.028 in (0.7 mm).
• If adjustment is needed, adjust carefully—iridium tips are fragile.
• If you’re unsure, do not force-bend the electrode.

Step 7: Install the new spark plugs

• Place a new plug into the 5/8" (16mm) spark plug socket (the rubber insert helps hold it).
• Thread each plug in by hand first using the extension only (no ratchet) to prevent cross-threading.
• Once seated, tighten with a torque wrench (ft-lb range): Torque to 18 Nm (13 ft-lbs).
• Do not use anti-seize on plated plugs.

Step 8: Reinstall the ignition coil pack

• Apply a tiny dab of dielectric grease inside each coil boot (this helps prevent sticking and moisture).
• Push the coil pack straight down until fully seated on all plugs.
• Install the coil bolts using a 10mm socket, then tighten evenly.
• Torque to 10 Nm (89 in-lbs).

Step 9: Reconnect and reassemble

• Reconnect the coil electrical connector until it clicks.
• Reinstall the engine cover by pressing it down onto the grommets.
• If you disconnected the battery, reconnect it using a 10mm wrench (negative terminal last removed, first reinstalled).

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✅ After Repair

• Start the engine and let it idle for 1-2 minutes. It should run smooth with no shaking.
• Test drive gently, then do a short moderate acceleration pull to confirm no misfire under boost.
• If the check engine light is on, scan and clear codes after confirming it runs properly.
• Recheck that the coil connector is fully clicked in if you feel a misfire.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $220-$420 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $35-$90 (parts only)

You Save: $130-$350 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.8-1.2 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.