How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2016 GMC Canyon (Fix Misfire & Rough Idle)
Step-by-step coil-on-plug replacement with required tools, parts list, safety tips, and 10 Nm torque spec for 2015, 2016
How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2016 GMC Canyon (Fix Misfire & Rough Idle)
Step-by-step coil-on-plug replacement with required tools, parts list, safety tips, and 10 Nm torque spec for 2015, 2016
đź”§ Canyon - Ignition Coil Replacement
Your Canyon uses coil-on-plug ignition coils (one coil per cylinder) mounted on the valve covers. Replacing a bad coil can fix misfires, rough idle, and flashing check-engine lights, and it’s a straightforward DIY if you work carefully around the wiring.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.7-1.5 hours (all 6 coils)
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- đź§Ż Let the engine cool fully before touching coils or exhaust components.
- 🧤 Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent accidental shorting while unplugging connectors.
- 👓 Do not pull on wires—only press the connector lock and pull on the connector body.
- 🔥 If the check-engine light was flashing, avoid driving until repaired (can damage the catalytic converter).
đź”§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- 10mm socket
- 1/4" drive ratchet
- 3" extension (1/4" drive)
- Torque wrench (inch-pound or low-range Nm)
- Trim removal tool
- Flashlight
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Ignition coil - Qty: 1 (or Qty: 6 to replace all)
- Dielectric grease - Qty: 1
đź“‹ Before You Begin
- Park on level ground, shift to neutral, and set the parking brake.
- Open the hood and let the engine cool completely.
- Use a 10mm socket to disconnect the negative battery cable and move it aside so it can’t spring back.
- Take a quick photo of each connector before unplugging.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Remove the engine cover (if equipped)
- Use a trim removal tool to gently pop up the cover at the mounting points, then lift it off by hand.
- Set the cover aside where it won’t get stepped on.
Step 2: Locate the ignition coil you’re replacing
- Use a flashlight to find the coil sitting on top of the valve cover, directly above the spark plug.
- Each coil has an electrical connector and usually one small hold-down bolt.
Step 3: Unplug the coil electrical connector
- Use your fingers or a trim removal tool to release the connector lock tab (a “lock tab” is the small plastic latch that prevents the plug from backing out).
- Pull the connector straight off the coil.
Step 4: Remove the coil hold-down bolt
- Use a 10mm socket, 1/4" drive ratchet, and 3" extension to remove the coil bolt.
- Place the bolt somewhere safe so it doesn’t disappear into the engine bay.
Step 5: Remove the ignition coil
- Grip the coil body and twist it slightly left-right to break the seal, then pull straight up.
- If it feels stuck, keep twisting gently—don’t pry hard on the valve cover.
Step 6: Prep and install the new coil
- Apply a small dab of dielectric grease inside the rubber boot of the new coil. (Dielectric grease is a non-conductive grease that helps prevent moisture and makes future removal easier.)
- Push the coil straight down onto the spark plug until it seats firmly.
Step 7: Reinstall the hold-down bolt and torque it
- Start the bolt by hand a few turns to avoid cross-threading.
- Use a torque wrench with a 10mm socket to tighten the bolt: Torque to 10 Nm (89 in-lbs).
Step 8: Reconnect the electrical connector
- Push the connector on until it clicks/locks into place.
- Gently tug the connector to confirm it’s fully seated.
Step 9: Repeat for any other coils you’re replacing
- Replace coils one at a time so connectors don’t get mixed up.
- Replacing all 6 prevents “next misfire” surprises.
Step 10: Reinstall the engine cover and reconnect the battery
- Reinstall the engine cover by aligning the grommets and pressing down by hand.
- Reconnect the negative battery cable using a 10mm socket.
âś… After Repair
- Start the engine and let it idle for 1-2 minutes. It should run smooth with no shaking.
- If you have an OBD-II scanner, clear any stored misfire codes and re-check for pending codes after a short drive.
- Test drive 10-15 minutes with light acceleration, then re-check for a check-engine light.
- If it still misfires, the next common suspects are the spark plug, injector, or a wiring/connector issue at that coil.
đź’° DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $250-$650 (parts + labor, depending on how many coils)
DIY Cost: $40-$420 (parts only, depending on how many coils)
You Save: $150-$300+ by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.7-1.5 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.


















