Spark Plug: Service and Repair

Spark Plug Replacement

Removal Procedure




1. Remove the appropriate ignition coil. Refer to Ignition Coil Replacement - Bank 2 (Ignition Coil Replacement - Bank 2) or Ignition Coil Replacement - Bank 1 (Ignition Coil Replacement - Bank 1).

Caution: Allow the engine to cool before removing the spark plugs. Attempting to remove the spark plugs from a hot engine may cause the plug threads to seize, causing damage to cylinder head threads.

Caution: Clean the spark plug recess area before removing the spark plug. Failure to do so could result in engine damage because of dirt or foreign material entering the cylinder head, or by the contamination of the cylinder head threads. The contaminated threads may prevent the proper seating of the new plug. Use a thread chaser to clean the threads of any contamination.

2. Remove the spark plug(s) from the engine.
3. Inspect the spark plugs. Refer to Spark Plug Inspection (Testing and Inspection).

Installation Procedure

Caution: Use only the spark plugs specified for use in the vehicle. Do not install spark plugs that are either hotter or colder than those specified for the vehicle. Installing spark plugs of another type can severely damage the engine.

Caution: Check the gap of all new and reconditioned spark plugs before installation. The pre-set gaps may have changed during handling. Use a round feeler gauge to ensure an accurate check. Installing the spark plugs with the wrong gap can cause poor engine performance and may even damage the engine.




1. Measure the spark plug gap on the spark plug(s) to be installed. Compare the measurement to the gap specifications. Refer to Ignition System Specifications (Application and ID) , correct as necessary.

Caution: Be sure that the spark plug threads smoothly into the cylinder head and the spark plug is fully seated. Use a thread chaser, if necessary, to clean threads in the cylinder head. Cross-threading or failing to fully seat the spark plug can cause overheating of the plug, exhaust blow-by, or thread damage.

Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution (Fastener Caution).

2. Install the spark plug(s) to the engine.

Tighten the plug(s) to 15 Nm (11 lb ft).

3. Install the appropriate ignition coil. Refer to Ignition Coil Replacement - Bank 2 (Ignition Coil Replacement - Bank 2) or Ignition Coil Replacement - Bank 1 (Ignition Coil Replacement - Bank 1).