🔧 Spark Plugs - Replacement

The 2.4L engine uses four spark plugs under the ignition coils. Replacing them restores smooth idle, better throttle response, and helps prevent misfires. This is a straightforward job if you work one cylinder at a time and keep dirt out of the plug wells.

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

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Work on a fully cool engine. Hot aluminum threads can be damaged easily.
• Keep the key/fob away from the vehicle while working.
• Do not force the spark plugs. Cross-threading can damage the cylinder head.
• Blow dirt out of the plug wells before removing plugs so debris does not fall into the engine.
• Disconnect the negative battery cable if you want extra safety while unplugging ignition components.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• 3/8-inch ratchet
• 6-inch extension
• 5/8-inch spark plug socket
• 10mm socket
• Torque wrench
• Flat-blade trim tool
• Compressed air or air blower
• Feeler gauge
• Dielectric grease
• 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 set the parking brake.
• Let the engine cool completely.
• If you disconnect the battery, save radio presets first.
• Work one cylinder at a time.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Remove the engine cover

• Lift the plastic engine cover straight up by hand. If it is tight, use a flat-blade trim tool gently under the edge.
• Set the cover aside.

Step 2: Remove the ignition coil electrical connectors

• Press the lock tab and unplug each coil connector by hand.
• If a connector is stubborn, gently help the tab with the flat-blade trim tool.

Step 3: Remove the ignition coils

• Use a 10mm socket and 3/8-inch ratchet to remove the coil hold-down bolts.
• Pull each coil straight up and out.
• Keep coils in order.

Step 4: Clean the plug wells

• Use compressed air or an air blower to blow dirt out of the spark plug wells.
• This keeps debris out of the cylinder head.

Step 5: Remove the old spark plugs

• Use a 5/8-inch spark plug socket, 6-inch extension, and 3/8-inch ratchet to loosen each plug.
• Turn slowly at first to avoid cross-threading damage.
• Remove one plug at a time.

Step 6: Check and install the new spark plugs

• Verify the gap on each new plug with a feeler gauge. The gap should be 0.040 in (1.0 mm).
• Thread each plug in by hand using the socket and extension only.
• Once seated, tighten with a torque wrench to 25 Nm (18 ft-lbs).
• Hand-start every plug.

Step 7: Reinstall the ignition coils

• Apply a small dab of dielectric grease inside each coil boot.
• Push each coil straight down onto its spark plug.
• Install the coil bolts with a 10mm socket and tighten to 10 Nm (89 in-lbs).
• Reconnect each electrical connector until it clicks.

Step 8: Reinstall the engine cover

• Set the cover back in place and press it down evenly.

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✅ After Repair

• Start the engine and let it idle.
• Listen for misfires, ticking, or a rough idle.
• If the check engine light was on, clear codes and recheck for stored misfire codes after a short drive.
• If the engine runs rough, recheck coil connectors and plug torque.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $220-$400 (parts + labor)

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

You Save: $180-$310 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 1.5-2.5 hours.

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🎯 Ready to get started?

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