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.
2000 Pontiac Firefly (CANADA) L3-1.0LFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Spark Plug: Service and Repair
REMOVAL PROCEDURE
NOTE: This engine is equipped with an aluminum cylinder head. Allow the engine to cool before removing spark plugs. Removing the spark plugs from an engine at operating temperature may damage the spark plug threads in the cylinder head. Also be sure to clean any dirt or debris from around spark plug holes prior to removing spark plugs.
IMPORTANT: Note the correct routing of the wires prior to removal in order to maintain the correct engine firing order.
1. Remove the spark plug wires from the spark plugs.
2. Remove the spark plugs from the cylinder head.
3. Inspect the spark plugs for electrode wear, for carbon deposits, and for damage to the insulator. Refer to Spark Plug Visual Diagnosis.
INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.
1. Use one of the following types of spark plugs:
^ AC Type R42XLS
^ Denso Type W20EPR-U11
^ NGK Type BPR6ES-11
2. Set the spark plug gap to 1.0-1.1 mm (0.039-0.043 in).
3. Install the spark plugs to the cylinder head.
Tighten
Tighten the spark plugs to 28 N.m (21 lb in).
4. Correctly route the the spark plug wires, and install the spark plug wires to the spark plugs.
NOTE: This engine is equipped with an aluminum cylinder head. Allow the engine to cool before removing spark plugs. Removing the spark plugs from an engine at operating temperature may damage the spark plug threads in the cylinder head. Also be sure to clean any dirt or debris from around spark plug holes prior to removing spark plugs.
IMPORTANT: Note the correct routing of the wires prior to removal in order to maintain the correct engine firing order.
1. Remove the spark plug wires from the spark plugs.
2. Remove the spark plugs from the cylinder head.
3. Inspect the spark plugs for electrode wear, for carbon deposits, and for damage to the insulator. Refer to Spark Plug Visual Diagnosis.
INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.
1. Use one of the following types of spark plugs:
^ AC Type R42XLS
^ Denso Type W20EPR-U11
^ NGK Type BPR6ES-11
2. Set the spark plug gap to 1.0-1.1 mm (0.039-0.043 in).
3. Install the spark plugs to the cylinder head.
Tighten
Tighten the spark plugs to 28 N.m (21 lb in).
4. Correctly route the the spark plug wires, and install the spark plug wires to the spark plugs.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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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.