How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2018 Honda CR-V
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, torque specs, and safety tips for 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025
How to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2018 Honda CR-V
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, torque specs, and safety tips for 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025
🔧 Ignition Coils - Replacement
On your CR-V, the ignition coils sit on top of the engine and can be replaced without removing major components. If you have a misfire, rough idle, or a check-engine light, replacing a weak coil can restore smooth running.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1.0 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- Let the engine cool fully before starting. Coils sit near hot engine parts.
- Turn the ignition off and keep the key/fob away from the vehicle.
- Disconnect the negative battery cable if you want extra safety while unplugging coils.
- Do not pull on the wire harness. Press the connector tab first, then unplug it.
- If the misfire has been present for a while, inspect spark plugs too. A bad plug can damage a new coil.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- 10mm socket
- Ratchet
- 6-inch extension
- Torque wrench
- Trim tool or small pick
- Needle-nose pliers
- Work light
- Safety glasses
- Mechanic gloves
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Ignition coil set - Qty: 4
📋 Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
- Let the engine cool completely.
- If disconnecting the battery, save radio and memory settings first.
- Work one coil at a time.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open the hood and locate the ignition coils
- Open the hood and secure it.
- Find the four ignition coils on top of the engine, above the spark plugs.
- If the engine cover is installed, remove it by lifting it straight up by hand.
Step 2: Disconnect the coil connector
- Use a trim tool or small pick to gently release the locking tab if needed.
- Press the connector tab and pull the electrical plug straight off the coil.
- Do not twist the connector or pull on the wires.
Step 3: Remove the coil hold-down bolt
- Use a 10mm socket, ratchet, and extension to remove the coil bolt.
- Set the bolt aside where it will not get lost.
- Keep hardware organized by cylinder.
Step 4: Pull out the old ignition coil
- Grasp the coil body and pull it straight up out of the spark plug tube.
- If it is stuck, wiggle it gently by hand. Do not pry hard against the valve cover.
- Inspect the rubber boot for oil, cracks, or burns.
Step 5: Install the new ignition coil
- Compare the new coil to the old one to make sure it matches.
- Push the new coil straight down into the plug well until it seats fully.
- Reinstall the hold-down bolt by hand first to avoid cross-threading.
- Use a 10mm socket and torque wrench to tighten the bolt to 10 N·m (7 ft-lbs).
Step 6: Reconnect the electrical connector
- Push the connector onto the coil until it clicks into place.
- Lightly tug on the connector to make sure it is locked.
- Repeat Steps 2 through 6 for each remaining coil.
Step 7: Reinstall the engine cover and finish up
- If removed, set the engine cover back in place and press it down evenly.
- Reconnect the negative battery cable if it was disconnected.
✅ After Repair
- Start the engine and let it idle smoothly for a few minutes.
- Check for a rough idle, warning lights, or misfire codes.
- If the check-engine light was on, clear the codes with a scan tool after the repair.
- If misfires return, inspect the spark plugs and coil connectors next.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $320-$650 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $120-$260 (parts only)
You Save: $200-$390 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.5-1.0 hours.
🎯 Ready to get started?
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