🔧 Ignition Coils - Replacement

The ignition coils on your Explorer sit on top of the spark plugs and are easy to access. Replacing a bad coil can fix misfires, rough idle, flashing check engine light, and loss of power.

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

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Let the engine cool completely before starting. Coils sit on a hot cylinder head.
• Turn the ignition off and remove the key/fob from the vehicle.
• Use care around the turbo plumbing and intake parts. They can be hot and easy to damage.
• If a coil has oil on it, the valve cover tube seals may also need attention.
• Battery disconnect is not required for this job, but it is okay to disconnect the negative cable if you want extra safety.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• 1/4-inch ratchet
• 8mm socket
• 10mm socket
• 6-inch extension
• Trim panel tool
• Small pick tool
• Dielectric grease
• Torque wrench
• Safety glasses
• Gloves

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Ignition coil - Qty: 1 per failed cylinder
• Spark plugs - Qty: 4 if doing a full tune-up

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
• Let the engine cool down.
• If you are replacing only one coil, the job is still done the same way.
• Tip: Replace the spark plugs if they are worn.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Remove the engine cover

• Pull upward on the engine cover to release it from its mounting grommets. No tool is usually needed.
• Set it aside in a safe spot.

Step 2: Move the intake duct if it blocks access

• If the intake tube blocks the rear coils, loosen the hose clamps using an 8mm socket.
• Use a trim panel tool to release any clips holding the duct in place.
• Remove the duct enough to reach the ignition coils.

Step 3: Disconnect the ignition coil connector

• Use a small pick tool to lift the connector lock if needed.
• Press the tab and pull the electrical connector straight off the coil.
• Tip: Do not pull on the wires.

Step 4: Remove the ignition coil

• Use a 10mm socket and 1/4-inch ratchet to remove the coil hold-down bolt.
• Twist the coil gently and pull it straight up out of the spark plug tube.
• If it sticks, wiggle it side to side instead of forcing it.

Step 5: Install the new ignition coil

• Compare the new coil to the old one before installing it.
• Apply a thin film of dielectric grease inside the coil boot. Dielectric grease helps the boot seal and makes later removal easier.
• Push the new coil straight down onto the spark plug until it seats fully.
• Install the hold-down bolt by hand first, then tighten with the 10mm socket.
• Torque to 8 Nm (71 in-lbs).

Step 6: Reconnect the electrical connector

• Push the connector onto the coil until it clicks.
• Make sure the lock is fully engaged.

Step 7: Reinstall removed intake parts and cover

• Reinstall any intake duct or hose you removed.
• Tighten hose clamps with the 8mm socket.
• Press the engine cover back onto its mounts.

Step 8: Start and verify

• Start the engine and let it idle.
• Check for smooth running and listen for misfires.
• If the check engine light was on, clear the code with a scan tool after repairs.

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✅ After Repair

• Road test the vehicle and confirm the engine runs smoothly.
• If the light returns, the spark plug or wiring may also need attention.
• If you replaced one coil only, consider replacing the others if they are original and high mileage.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $180-$450 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $40-$120 (parts only)

You Save: $140-$330 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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🎯 Ready to get started?

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