Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2012 Kia Soul L4-2.0LFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Spark Plug: Testing and Inspection
On-vehicle Inspection
Spark Test
1. Disconnect the injector connectors (A).
2. Disconnect the ignition coil connectors (A).
NOTE:
When removing the ignition coil connector, pull the lock pin (A) and push the clip (B).
3. Remove the ignition coils (A).
4. Using a spark plug socket, remove the spark plugs (A).
CAUTION:
Be careful that no contaminates enter through the spark plug holes.
5. Install the spark plug to the ignition coil.
6. Ground the spark plug to the engine.
7. Check if spark occurs while engine is being cranked.
NOTE:
To prevent fuel being injected from injectors while the engine is being cranked, disconnect the injector connectors.
Crank the engine for no more than 5 - 10 seconds.
8. Inspect all the spark plugs.
9. Using a spark plug socket, install the spark plugs.
Tightening torque:
14.7 - 24.5 N.m (1.5 - 2.5 kgf.m, 10.8 - 18.1 lb-ft)
10. Install the ignition coils.
Tightening torque:
9.8 - 11.8 N.m (1.0 - 1.2 kgf.m, 7.2 - 8.7 lb-ft)
NOTE:
When inserting ignition coil into the cylinder head cover for spark plug to be inserting ignition coil, the sealing cap of ignition coil must be mated totally with inner side of cylinder head.
11. Reconnect the ignition coil connectors.
12. Reconnect the injector connectors.
Inspect Spark Plug
1. Inspect the electrodes (A) and ceramic insulator (B).
Inspection Of Electrodes
2. Check the electrode gap (A).
Standard :1.0 - 1.1 mm (0.0394 - 0.0433 in.)
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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