How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2016 Jeep Wrangler (Fix Misfire & Rough Idle)
Step-by-step DIY instructions with tools, parts list, safety tips, and 80 in-lb (9 Nm) torque spec for 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2016 Jeep Wrangler (Fix Misfire & Rough Idle)
Step-by-step DIY instructions with tools, parts list, safety tips, and 80 in-lb (9 Nm) torque spec for 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
đź”§ Wrangler - Ignition Coil Replacement
Your Wrangler’s ignition coils sit on top of each spark plug and create the high voltage needed to fire the plug. Replacing a failing coil can fix misfires, rough running, and flashing check-engine light issues.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.8-1.5 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- ⚠️ Work on a cool engine to avoid burns.
- ⚠️ Keep keys out of the ignition so the engine can’t start accidentally.
- ⚠️ Disconnect the negative battery cable if you’ll be unplugging multiple connectors at once.
- ⚠️ Don’t pull on wiring—always release the connector lock first.
đź”§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Safety glasses
- Nitrile gloves
- 10mm socket
- 1/4" drive ratchet
- 6" socket extension
- Trim clip removal tool
- Small flat-blade screwdriver
- Torque wrench (inch-pound)
- Flashlight
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Ignition coil - Qty: 1-6
- 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 fully cool.
- If you choose to disconnect the battery: use a 10mm socket to remove the negative battery cable and isolate it so it can’t spring back.
- Replace coils one at a time to avoid mix-ups.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Remove the engine cover (if equipped)
- Use a trim clip removal tool to carefully pop any plastic retainers, if present.
- Grip the cover and pull upward to release it from the mounting grommets.
- 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 pack sitting on top of the valve cover, directly over a spark plug.
- Each coil has an electrical connector and usually one small hold-down bolt.
Step 3: Unplug the coil electrical connector
- Use a small flat-blade screwdriver only if needed to gently lift the connector lock tab.
- Press the release and pull the connector straight back (do not yank the wires).
Step 4: Remove the coil hold-down bolt
- Use a 10mm socket, 6" socket extension, and 1/4" drive ratchet to remove the 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 gently left-right to break the boot loose.
- Pull the coil straight up and out.
- If it feels stuck, keep twisting—don’t pry hard against plastic parts.
Step 6: Prep and install the new coil
- Apply a very small dab of dielectric grease inside the rubber boot. (This helps prevent moisture and makes future removal easier.)
- Push the new coil straight down onto the spark plug until you feel it seat.
- Reinstall the hold-down bolt by hand first to avoid cross-threading.
Step 7: Torque the coil bolt and reconnect the connector
- Use a torque wrench (inch-pound) (a tool that clicks at the correct tightness) to tighten the coil bolt.
- Torque to 9 Nm (80 in-lbs)
- Plug the electrical connector back in until it clicks/locks.
Step 8: Repeat for any other coils
- Replace additional coils the same way, one at a time.
- Don’t swap connectors between coils.
Step 9: Reinstall the engine cover and reconnect battery (if disconnected)
- Press the engine cover back onto its grommets until it seats.
- If disconnected, reconnect the negative battery cable using a 10mm socket and tighten snugly.
âś… After Repair
- Start the engine and let it idle for 1-2 minutes. It should run smooth.
- Take a short test drive and verify there’s no stumbling under acceleration.
- If the check-engine light was on, it may need a scan tool to clear codes after the fix.
- Recheck that every coil connector is fully clicked in.
đź’° DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $250-$700 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $45-$420 (parts only)
You Save: $205-$280 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.8-1.5 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.


















