🔧 Spark Plugs - Replacement

Your Equinox uses coil-on-plug ignition, so each plug sits under an ignition coil. Replacing them restores smooth idle, better cold starts, and can help with misfire codes if the plugs are worn. This is a straightforward driveway job if you work carefully and keep dirt out of the spark plug wells.

Difficulty Level: Intermediate | Estimated Time: 1.5-2.5 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Let the engine cool completely before starting. The turbo engine and ignition coils can stay hot.
• Disconnect the negative battery cable before removing coils to reduce the chance of a short.
• Do not drop dirt into the spark plug wells. Clean around each coil before removal.
• Use only the correct spark plug gap if the new plugs are not pre-gapped.
• Do not overtighten the plugs. The aluminum cylinder head can be damaged.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• 8mm socket
• 10mm socket
• 3/8-inch ratchet
• 3-inch extension
• 6-inch extension
• 5/8-inch spark plug socket
• Torque wrench
• Trim tool
• Feeler gauge
• Compressed air
• Shop towel
• Gloves
• Safety glasses

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Spark plugs - Qty: 4
• Dielectric grease - Qty: 1

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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 before removing ignition coils.
• Keep track of coil locations so everything goes back in the same place.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Disconnect the battery

• Use an 8mm socket to loosen and remove the negative battery cable.
• Move the cable aside so it cannot touch the terminal.

Step 2: Remove the engine cover

• Lift the engine cover straight up by hand.
• If it feels stuck, use a trim tool gently at the edge.

Step 3: Unplug the ignition coils

• Use your fingers to release each coil electrical connector lock.
• Unplug the connectors one at a time so you do not mix them up.

Step 4: Remove the ignition coils

• Use a 10mm socket, 3/8-inch ratchet, and 3-inch extension to remove the coil retaining bolts.
• Pull each ignition coil straight up and out.
• Twist gently if a coil feels stuck.

Step 5: Clean the spark plug wells

• Use compressed air to blow dirt away from each plug well.
• Wipe the area with a shop towel if needed.

Step 6: Remove the old spark plugs

• Use a 5/8-inch spark plug socket, 3/8-inch ratchet, and 6-inch extension to loosen each spark plug.
• Turn each plug counterclockwise and remove it carefully.
• Check that the old plug comes out cleanly and does not leave debris behind.

Step 7: Check and install the new spark plugs

• Check the new plug gap with a feeler gauge.
• Install each plug by hand first so it does not cross-thread.
• Use the 5/8-inch spark plug socket to snug them down.
• Torque to 20 Nm (15 ft-lbs).
• Hand-start every plug first.

Step 8: Reinstall the ignition coils

• Add a small amount of dielectric grease inside each coil boot if desired.
• Push each coil straight down onto its spark plug.
• Install the coil bolts with a 10mm socket.
• Torque to 8 Nm (71 in-lbs).
• Reconnect each coil electrical connector until it clicks.

Step 9: Reinstall the engine cover and battery cable

• Press the engine cover back into place by hand.
• Reconnect the negative battery cable with an 8mm socket.
• Tighten it snugly; do not overforce the clamp.

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✅ After Repair

• Start the engine and let it idle.
• Listen for a smooth idle and watch for a check engine light.
• If the engine runs rough, recheck coil connectors and plug seating.
• Clear any stored misfire codes with a scan tool if needed.
• Test drive the vehicle and confirm normal acceleration.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

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

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

You Save: $145-$260 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 1.5-2.0 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.