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2012 Toyota Corolla
2009 - 2019 Toyota Corolla
Inline 4 1.8L
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2009-2013 Toyota Corolla ignition Coil Replacement

2009-2013 Toyota Corolla ignition Coil Replacement

Suggested Parts

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Tools & Fluids

10mm
10mm
Socket
or (3/8")
3/8
3/8
Ratchet
3"
3"
Extension
Flathead
Flathead
Screwdriver
Needle Nose
Needle Nose
Pliers
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How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2012 Toyota Corolla

Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, torque specs, and safety tips for 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019

How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2012 Toyota Corolla

Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, torque specs, and safety tips for 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019

Orion
Orion

🔧 Ignition Coils - Replacement

Replacing the ignition coils on your Corolla means removing the coil packs from the top of the engine, swapping in the new ones, and reinstalling everything. If you have a misfire, rough idle, or check engine light, this is a common fix. Replace all four if one has failed.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1 hour


⚠️ Safety & Precautions

  • Turn the engine off and let it cool completely before starting.
  • Keep hands and tools away from the ignition system while the engine is running.
  • Disconnect the negative battery cable before removing coils to prevent electrical damage.
  • Be careful not to drop dirt or debris into the spark plug tubes.
  • Do not pry hard on the coil connectors or wire locks.

🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

  • 10mm socket
  • 3/8-inch ratchet
  • 3-inch extension
  • Flat-head screwdriver
  • Needle-nose pliers
  • Torque wrench
  • Gloves
  • Safety glasses

🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

  • Ignition coil - Qty: 4
  • Dielectric grease - Qty: 1

📋 Before You Begin

  • Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
  • Let the engine cool completely.
  • Open the hood and remove the engine cover if equipped.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal before touching the coils.

🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Disconnect the battery

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

Step 2: Remove the engine cover

  • If equipped, pull up gently on the engine cover to release it.
  • Set it aside in a safe place.

Step 3: Unplug the ignition coil connector

  • Press the connector lock tab and pull the connector straight off each coil.
  • Use a flat-head screwdriver only if the lock is tight.

Step 4: Remove the coil retaining bolt

  • Use a 10mm socket and 3/8-inch ratchet to remove each coil bolt.
  • Keep the bolts organized so they go back in the same spots.

Step 5: Remove the ignition coil

  • Twist the coil gently, then pull it straight up.
  • If it sticks, use a flat-head screwdriver carefully for light leverage.
  • Pull straight up to avoid damaging the boot.

Step 6: Install the new ignition coil

  • Apply a small amount of dielectric grease inside the rubber boot.
  • Push the new coil straight down until it seats fully on the spark plug.
  • Reinstall the coil bolt by hand first.
  • Torque to 10 Nm (89 ft-lbs).

Step 7: Reconnect the wiring connector

  • Push each connector on until it clicks into place.
  • Make sure the lock tab is fully engaged.

Step 8: Reassemble and restore power

  • Reinstall the engine cover if equipped.
  • Reconnect the negative battery terminal using the 10mm socket.

✅ After Repair

  • Start the engine and listen for a smooth idle.
  • Check that the check engine light is off.
  • If the light stays on, clear codes with a scan tool and verify the repair.
  • Take a short test drive to confirm the misfire is gone.

💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $300-$600 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $120-$240 (parts only)

You Save: $180-$360 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.5-1 hour.


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