How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2013 Honda CR-V
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, torque specs, and safety tips for 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014
How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2013 Honda CR-V
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, torque specs, and safety tips for 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014
🔧 Ignition Coils - Replacement
Your CR-V uses one ignition coil per spark plug. Replacing a bad coil can fix misfires, rough idle, hesitation, and check engine lights related to cylinder misfire codes.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1 hour
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- Turn the engine off and let it cool completely before starting.
- Ignition coils carry high voltage. Do not touch coil connectors with the engine running.
- Disconnect the negative battery cable if you want an extra safety margin while unplugging coils.
- Keep dirt out of the spark plug wells. Debris can cause misfires after reassembly.
- Use gentle force on the coil connectors and boots. Do not yank on the wires.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- 10mm
🔧 Ignition Coils - Replacement
Your CR-V uses one ignition coil on top of each spark plug. If one coil fails, you may get a misfire, rough idle, hesitation, or a check engine light. This job is straightforward and can usually be done without special scan tools.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1 hour
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- Work with the engine completely cool.
- Turn the ignition off and remove the key/fob from the vehicle.
- Ignition coils can deliver high voltage. Do not test them by hand with the engine running.
- Keep dirt and small parts out of the spark plug wells.
- If you disconnect the battery, disconnect the negative cable first.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- 10mm socket
- 3/8-inch ratchet
- 3-inch extension
- Flat trim tool
- Dielectric grease
- Torque wrench
- Safety glasses
- Mechanic gloves
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Ignition coil set - Qty: 4
- Dielectric grease - Qty: 1
📋 Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
- Let the engine cool down fully.
- Open the hood and remove the plastic engine cover if equipped.
- If you plan to disconnect the battery, save any radio presets first.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Remove the engine cover
- Use your hands to pull up on the engine cover and lift it off the mounting grommets.
- Set it aside in a safe place.
Step 2: Disconnect the first ignition coil
- Find the ignition coils on top of the engine, one for each cylinder.
- Use a flat trim tool to gently lift the locking tab on the coil connector.
- Press the connector release and pull the plug straight off the coil.
Step 3: Remove the coil hold-down bolt
- Use a 10mm socket, 3/8-inch ratchet, and 3-inch extension to remove the coil bolt.
- Keep the bolt in order so it goes back into the same position.
- Small bolts strip easily.
Step 4: Pull the ignition coil out
- Twist the coil slightly side to side, then pull it straight up out of the spark plug well.
- If it feels stuck, wiggle it gently instead of forcing it.
Step 5: Install the new ignition coil
- Compare the new coil to the old one to make sure it matches.
- Apply a thin film of dielectric grease inside the coil boot.
- Push the new coil straight down onto the spark plug until fully seated.
- Reinstall the hold-down bolt by hand first.
- Use a 10mm socket and torque wrench to tighten the bolt to 12 Nm (9 ft-lbs).
Step 6: Reconnect the coil connector
- Push the electrical connector onto the coil until it clicks.
- Make sure the lock tab is fully engaged.
Step 7: Repeat for the remaining coils
- Repeat Steps 2 through 6 for each remaining coil.
- If one coil failed from age, replacing all four is often the best long-term fix.
Step 8: Reinstall the engine cover
- Align the cover with the mounting points.
- Press down evenly until it snaps into place.
✅ After Repair
- Start the engine and let it idle.
- Listen for a smooth idle and check that the check engine light is off.
- If the light stays on, scan for misfire codes and clear them after repairs are confirmed.
- Take a short test drive and make sure acceleration feels normal.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $280-$520 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $120-$260 (parts only)
You Save: $160-$260 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.5-1 hour.
🎯 Ready to get started?
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