Spark Plug Inspection

2009 Honda Odyssey EX-LSECTION Spark Plug Inspection
  1. Remove the Ignition coils:
  2. Remove the spark plugs, then 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
    G05522632Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  3. 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.
  4. Replace the plug at the specified interval or if the center electrode is rounded (A), or if the spark plug gap (B) is out of specification. Use only the spark plugs listed.
    NOTE: Do not adjust the gap of iridium tip plugs.

    Spark Plugs 

    J35A6, '07 model J35A7 engines 

    NGK: IZFR5K11 

    '08-10 models J35A7 engine 

    NGK: ILZKR7B-11 

    Electrode Gap 

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

    Fig 2: Identifying Spark Plug Gap
    G05522633Courtesy 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).
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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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.