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.
On-Vehicle Inspection
- INSPECT IGNITION COIL (WITH IGNITER) AND SPARK TEST
Check that the spark occurs.
- Remove the ignition coils (with igniter) (See REMOVAL ).
- Remove the spark plugs.
- Install the spark plugs to each ignition coil (with igniter), and connect the ignition coil (with igniter) connector.
- Disconnect the 8 injector connectors.
- Ground the spark plug.
- Check if spark occurs while engine is being cranked.NOTE: To prevent gasoline from being injected from injectors during this test, crank the engine for no more than 5-10 seconds at time.
If the spark does not occur, do the test as follows:
- Using a 16 mm plug wrench, install the spark plugs.
- Torque: 17.5 N.m (180 kgf.cm, 13 ft.lbf)
- Reinstall the ignition coils (with igniter) (See REMOVAL ).
- INSPECT SPARK PLUGS NOTE:
- Never use a wire brush for cleaning.
- Never attempt to adjust the electrode gap on used spark plug.
- Spark plug should be replaced every 100,000 km (60,000 miles).
- Remove the ignition coils (with igniter) (See REMOVAL ).
- Check the electrode.
- Using a merger (insulation resistance meter), measure the insulation resistance.
- Correct insulation resistance: 10 MΩ or more
If the resistance is less than specified, proceed to step ( d).
HINT:
If a merger is not available, the following simple method of inspection provides fairly accurate results.
- Simple Method:
- Using a merger (insulation resistance meter), measure the insulation resistance.
- Using a 16 mm plug wrench, remove the spark plugs.
- Check the spark plug for thread damage and insulator damage.
If abnormal, replace the spark plug.
Recommended spark plug:
RECOMMENDED SPARK PLUG TABLEDENSO made SK20R11 NGK made IFR6A11 - Check the spark plug electrode gap.
- Maximum electrode gap for used spark plug: 1.2 mm (0.047 in.)
If the gap is greater than maximum, replace the spark plug.
- Correct electrode gap for new spark plug: 1.1 mm (0.043 in.)
NOTE: If adjusting the gap of a new spark plug, bend only the base of the ground electrode. Do not touch the tip. Never attempt to adjust the gap on a used plug.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
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.
