How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2013 Honda Accord
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, torque specs, and safety tips for 2013
How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2013 Honda Accord
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, torque specs, and safety tips for 2013
🔧 Ignition Coils - Replacement
Your Accord uses one ignition coil per cylinder. Replacing them is straightforward: remove the engine cover, disconnect the coil connectors, swap the coils, and reinstall everything securely.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- Let the engine cool completely before starting. Coils sit on the valve covers and can be hot.
- Turn the ignition OFF and remove the key/fob from the vehicle.
- Disconnect the negative battery cable before unplugging ignition components.
- Do not touch coil terminals with the ignition on.
- Keep dirt out of the spark plug wells.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- 10mm socket
- 1/4-inch ratchet
- 1/4-inch extension
- Flat-blade trim tool
- Small pick tool
- Torque wrench
- Dielectric grease
- Safety glasses
- Mechanic gloves
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Ignition coil set - Qty: 6
- Valve cover gasket set - Qty: 1
- Spark plug tube seals - Qty: 1 set
📋 Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
- Make sure the engine is cool.
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal using a 10mm socket.
- Have the new coils ready so you can swap one at a time.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Remove the engine cover
- Lift off the plastic engine cover by hand. If it feels stuck, gently rock it side to side.
- Work slowly to avoid breaking clips.
Step 2: Disconnect the battery
- Use a 10mm socket and 1/4-inch ratchet to remove the negative battery terminal.
- Move the cable aside so it cannot spring back and touch the post.
Step 3: Access the ignition coils
- Find the six ignition coils on top of the engine, one above each spark plug.
- If any intake ducting or cover blocks access, remove it with a 10mm socket or flat-blade trim tool.
Step 4: Unplug each coil
- Use a small pick tool to release the connector lock if needed.
- Press the connector tab and pull the plug straight off each coil.
- Do not pull on the wires.
Step 5: Remove the coil hold-down bolts
- Use a 10mm socket, 1/4-inch ratchet, and extension to remove each coil bolt.
- Keep the bolts in order so they go back in the same spots.
- Torque on reinstall: 12 Nm (106 in-lbs)
Step 6: Remove the old ignition coils
- Twist each coil slightly, then pull it straight up out of the spark plug well.
- If a coil is stuck, wiggle it gently instead of forcing it.
Step 7: Install the new ignition coils
- Apply a small amount of dielectric grease inside each coil boot.
- Push each new coil straight down until it seats fully on the spark plug.
- Reinstall the coil bolt and tighten with a torque wrench to 12 Nm (106 in-lbs).
Step 8: Reconnect the electrical connectors
- Push each connector onto its coil until it clicks.
- Make sure every connector lock is fully engaged.
Step 9: Reassemble the intake parts and engine cover
- Reinstall any parts removed for access using the 10mm socket and flat-blade trim tool.
- Press the engine cover back into place by hand.
Step 10: Reconnect the battery and test
- Reinstall the negative battery cable with the 10mm socket.
- Start the engine and listen for a smooth idle.
- Check for misfire warning lights on the dash.
✅ After Repair
- Let the engine idle for a few minutes and confirm it runs smoothly.
- If the check engine light was on, clear codes with a scan tool after the repair.
- If a misfire returns, the spark plugs may also need inspection or replacement.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $450-$900 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $180-$420 (parts only)
You Save: $270-$480 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 1-2 hours.
🎯 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.


















