2012 Acura MDXFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Spark Plug Inspection

  1. Remove the ignition coils and the spark plugs (see IGNITION COIL AND SPARK PLUG REMOVAL/INSTALLATION  ).
  2. Inspect the electrodes and the ceramic insulator.
    • Burned or worn electrodes may be caused by these conditions:
      • Advanced ignition timing
      • Loose spark plug
      • Plug heat range too hot
      • Insufficient cooling
    • Fouled plugs may be caused by these conditions:
      • 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: Inspecting Electrodes And Ceramic Insulator
        G08051969Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  3. Replace the plug at the specified interval, or if the center electrode (A) is rounded, or if the spark plug gap (B) is out of specification, or if the spark plug electrode is dirty or contaminated. Use only the spark plugs listed.
    NOTE:
    • Do not adjust the gap of iridium tip plugs.
    • Do not use a plug cleaner.

    Spark Plugs 

    NGK: ILZKR7B-11S 

    DENSO: SXU22HCR11S 

    Electrode Gap 

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

    Fig 2: Checking Spark Plug Gap
    G08051970Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  4. Install the spark plugs and the ignition coils (see IGNITION COIL AND SPARK PLUG REMOVAL/INSTALLATION  ).
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.