2007 Acura RLFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Spark Plug Inspection

  1. Remove the spark plugs and inspect the electrodes and the ceramic insulator.
    • Burned or worn electrodes may be caused by:
      • Advanced ignition timing
      • Loose spark plug
      • Plug heat range too hot
      • Insufficient cooling
    • Fouled plugs may be caused by:
      • Retarded ignition timing
      • Oil in combustion chamber
      • Incorrect spark plug gap
      • Plug heat range too cold
      • Excessive idling/low speed running
      • Clogged air cleaner element
      • Deteriorated ignition coils
        Fig 1: Identifying Electrodes And Ceramic Insulator
        G05493825Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  2. If the spark plug electrode is dirty or contaminated, clean the electrode with a plug cleaner.
    NOTE:
    • Do not use a wire brush or scrape the iridium electrode since this will damage the electrode.
    • When using a sand blaster spark plug cleaner, do not clean for more than 20 seconds to avoid damaging the electrode.
  3. Do not adjust the gap (A) of iridium tip plugs; replace the spark plug if the gap is out of specification.

    Electrode Gap: 

    Standard (New): 1.0-1.1 mm (0.039-0.043 in.) 

    Fig 2: Identifying Electrode Gap
    G05493826Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  4. Replace the plug at the specified interval, or when the center electrode is rounded (A). Use only the listed spark plugs.

    Spark Plugs: 

    NGK: IZFR6K11 

    DENSO: SKJ20DR-M11 

    Fig 3: Identifying Sparkplug Center Electrode
    G05493827Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  5. Apply a small amount of anti-seize compound to the plug threads, and screw the plugs into the cylinder head, finger-tight. Torque them to 18 N.m (1.8 kgf.m, 13 lbf.ft).
Factory Service Tools

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.