How to change spark plugs

[Abdel]

I was watching one of ETCG videos on performance issues as I was suffering the same problems with slow acceleration and engine vibrating. One of the solutions he said was to change the spark plugs. So, after doing a search to avoid making a similar topic I couldn’t find a topic on how to change your spark plug. So I was wondering if anyone can help me on how to change spark plugs on a 2007 KIA rio5 SX?

Thanks!

Topic

[Ingvar]

You most likely have per spark plug coil packs. Black boxes sitting atop of each plug.
You are likely having spark plugs in combustion chamber top center, inside deep tunnels in valve cover.
1. go to any parts store and buy repair manual
2. if too expensive, go to library and copy proper page
3. if not possible, remove engine cover if applicable. Your engine may not have ine
4. acquire socket ratchet driver , 3/8 head
5. acquire suitable deep socket for plugs, usually 14mm
6. to reach down into the plug well, acquire 2 x 3/8 extensions
7. you’ll likely need 10mm socket for coil packs
8. loosen a coil pack 10mm bolt and remove it. set into an empty can, I reuse sour cream cans
9. pull coil pack out of tube.
10. insert 3/8 extension into the deep plug socket
11. insert 2nd extension onto the 1st extension and CAREFULLY insert plug socket onto the plug itself. You should feel some resistance as rubber grommet in the socket tightens on the plug tail
12. insert 3/8 ratchet into the upper extension.
13. grasp ratchet firmly with both hands; one hand is on top of the ratchet head, one on the ratchet handle end.
14. pushing DOWN on the ratchet head, turn socket COUNTERCLOCKWISE, until plug loosens.
15 use ratchet to loosen plug more, then when it’s turning easy, remove ratchet and spin extension by fingers.
16. CAREFULLY pull extensions up and remove plug. If plug falls back into the plug well, no worries, re-insert deep socket onto it’s top and pull it up and out.
17 inspect plug electrodes for unusual wear or deposits
18. Insert new plug into deep socket and ensure it’s seated firmly in it.
19. insert plug – with extensions – into the plug well and finger tighten it.
20 IF PLUG DOES NOT EASILY GO INTO THREADS, YOU EITHER HAVE WRONG PLUG OR TRYING TO INSERT IT CROOKED. STOP!!!!!! Plug should go in nice and easy. When you have it finger tight, install ratchet onto extension, and – once again, pushing down on ratchet head – spin everything CLOCKWISE until it’s SNUG. When SNUG, give it a quick nudge on the ratchet handle. If you want to do torque wrenches, be my guest. I “got the feel”.
21 repeat for each plug.
Be happy.

[Ingvar]

Not to forget. Acquire a tube or can of dielectric grease.
Before you re-insert coil pack onto the plug, pack its nipple with that grease.
Oh, and on some cars, you need to disconnect the coil pack harness. If you need to do so, then pack plug with grease inside too.
Best plugs will be NGKs 100 000 miles warranty iridium tipped. Great plugs.

[Abdel]

Thank you very much for the detailed answer! 😀

[Author]

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