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 SPARK TEST
Check that the spark occurs.
- Remove the ignition coils (with igniters) (See REPLACEMENT ).
- Remove the spark plugs.
- Install the spark plug to the ignition coil, and connect the ignition coil connector.
- Ground the spark plug.
- 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:
- 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).
- Remove the 6 ignition coils (with igniters) (See REPLACEMENT ).
- 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.
- Simple Method:
- Using a megger (insulation resistance meter), measure the insulation resistance.
- (c) Using a 16 mm plug wrench, remove the 6 spark plugs.
- Visually check the spark plug for thread damage and insulator damage.
If abnormal, replace the spark plug.
Recommended spark plug:
SPARK PLUG DESCRIPTIONDENSO made SK20R11 NGK made IFR6A11 - 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.
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:
- • 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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