Spark Plug: Service and Repair

REMOVAL and INSTALLATION

NOTE: If a spark plug is removed for examination, it must be reinstalled in the same cylinder. Cylinders 1, 2 and 3 use a "PG" suffix. Cylinders 4, 5 and 6 use a "P" suffix. If a spark plug needs to be replaced, use only spark plug with the service part number suffix letter "PP" as shown on the engine decal.

1. Disconnect the battery ground cable.

NOTE: When the battery has been disconnected and reconnected, some abnormal drive symptoms may occur while the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) relearns its adaptive strategy. The vehicle may need to be driven 10 miles or more to relearn the strategy.

2. Remove the RH side of the cowl vent screen and RH cowl top extension.
3. Disconnect engine control sensor wiring from the ignition coil, remove the four ignition coil hold-down screws, and remove the ignition coil to access the spark plugs on cylinders 1, 2 and 3.
4. Disconnect the electric Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) actuator electrical connector, remove the mounting screws, and lay the IMRC actuator aside to access the spark plugs on cylinders 4, 5 and 6.
5. Disconnect ignition cables from spark plugs.
6. Loosen spark plugs 1/4 turn and, using compressed air, remove any dirt or foreign material from spark plug areas of cylinder head.
7. Remove spark plugs.
8. Inspect spark plugs and replace if necessary.
9. To install, reverse Removal procedure. Tighten spark plugs to 9-20 Nm (80-177 lb in).