🔧 Spark Plugs - Replacement

Your Ram uses 16 spark plugs, and they should be replaced as a full set. This is a straightforward job, but the engine bay is tight and the coils/plugs need to be handled carefully so you do not crack a new plug or damage a coil boot.

Difficulty Level: Intermediate | Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Let the engine cool completely before starting. Hot aluminum threads can be damaged easily.
• Disconnect the negative battery cable before removing coil connectors.
• Keep dirt out of the spark plug wells. Debris can fall into the cylinder and cause damage.
• Do not use an impact tool on spark plugs.
• Do not over-tighten new plugs. The cylinder heads are aluminum.
• Work one cylinder at a time so parts stay organized.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

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

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Spark plugs - Qty: 16

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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 with a 10mm socket.
• Remove any engine cover if equipped using a flat trim tool.
• Keep each coil and plug in order.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Remove the engine cover

• If equipped, lift the cover straight up and off using a flat trim tool only if needed to help release the retaining grommets.
• Set it aside safely.

Step 2: Disconnect the battery

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

Step 3: Remove the intake tube if it blocks access

• Use an 8mm socket to loosen the clamps on the air tube if needed.
• Lift the intake tube out carefully and set it aside.

Step 4: Remove one ignition coil at a time

• Unplug the coil electrical connector by pressing the lock tab and pulling it straight off.
• Use an 8mm socket to remove the coil hold-down bolt.
• Pull the coil straight up and out. A small twisting motion helps.
• Do not pry on the coil boot.

Step 5: Clean the spark plug well

• Use compressed air to blow dirt away from the plug well before removing the plug.
• This keeps debris out of the cylinder.

Step 6: Remove the old spark plug

• Use a 5/8-inch spark plug socket, 3-inch extension, and ratchet to loosen and remove the plug.
• Turn counterclockwise slowly until it comes out.
• If it feels stuck, stop and work it gently. Do not force it.

Step 7: Prepare and install the new spark plug

• Check the new plug gap if needed. Do not bend the center electrode.
• Thread the plug in by hand first using the spark plug socket and extension.
• Once seated, tighten with a torque wrench to 13 Nm (115 in-lbs).
• Hand-start every plug.

Step 8: Reinstall the ignition coil

• Apply a small amount of dielectric grease inside the coil boot if desired.
• Push the coil straight down onto the new plug.
• Install the coil bolt with an 8mm socket and tighten to 8 Nm (71 in-lbs).
• Reconnect the coil electrical connector until it clicks.

Step 9: Repeat for all remaining plugs

• Repeat Steps 4 through 8 for all 16 spark plugs.
• Work one cylinder at a time so the parts stay organized.

Step 10: Reassemble and reconnect battery

• Reinstall the intake tube with an 8mm socket if removed.
• Reinstall the engine cover if equipped.
• Reconnect the negative battery cable with a 10mm socket.

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✅ After Repair

• Start the engine and listen for smooth idle.
• Watch for a check engine light or flashing misfire light.
• If the engine runs rough, recheck every coil connector and plug installation.
• Take a short test drive and make sure acceleration feels normal.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $400-$800 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $80-$200 (parts only)

You Save: $320-$600 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 2-4 hours.

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🎯 Ready to get started?

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