2004 Toyota Avalon XLSFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

On-Vehicle Inspection

NOTE: "Cold" and "Hot" in these sentences express the temperature of the coils themselves. "Cold" is from -10°C (14°F) to 50°C (122°F) and "Hot" is from 50°C (122°F) to 100°C (212°F).
  1. INSPECT SPARK TEST 

    Check that the spark occurs.

    1. Remove the ignition coils (with igniters) (See REPLACEMENT  ).
    2. Remove the spark plugs.
    3. Install the spark plug to the ignition coil, and connect the ignition coil connector.
    4. Ground the spark plug.
    5. See 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 in Fig 1:

    Fig 1: Spark Test Flow Chart
    G02879105Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  2. INSPECT SPARK PLUGS 
    NOTE:
    • Never use a wire brush for cleaning.
    • Never attempt to adjust the electrode gap on a used spark plug.
    • Spark plugs should be replaced every 193,000 km (120,000 miles).
    1. Remove the 6 ignition coils (with igniters) (See REPLACEMENT  ).
    2. Inspect the electrode.
      • Using a megger (insulation resistance meter), measure the insulation resistance.

        Standard correct insulation resistance: 

        10 MΩ or more 

        If the resistance is less than specified, proceed to  d .

        HINT:

        If a megger is not available, these simple method of inspection provides fairly accurate results.

        Fig 2: Measuring Insulation Resistance
        G02879106Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
      • Simple Method:
        • Quickly race the engine to 4,000 rpm 5 times.
        • Remove the spark plug (See  c ).
        • Visually check the spark plug.
        • If the electrode is dry ... OK
        • If the electrode is wet ... Proceed to  d
        • Reinstall the spark plug (See  g ).
      Fig 3: Inspecting Electrode
      G02879107Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    3. (c) Using a 16 mm plug wrench, remove the 6 spark plugs.
    4. Visually check the spark plug for thread damage and insulator damage.

      If abnormal, replace the spark plug.

      Recommended spark plug:

      SPARK PLUG DESCRIPTION

      DENSO made SK20R11
      NGK made IFR6A11
      Fig 4: Removing Spark Plug
      G02879108Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    5. Inspect the electrode gaps.

      Maximum electrode gap for used spark plug: 

      1.3 mm (0.051 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 the used plug.
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.

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