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2009 - 2014 Acura TSX Spark Plugs Replacement

Most people do not think twice about their...

iFixit Library Acura TSX Moderate 15 - 30 minutes Guide 140044

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Guide overview

Before you begin

Most people do not think twice about their spark plugs, yet these small parts play an incredibly important role in how your vehicle functions. Spark plugs are responsible for delivering electricity from your ignition to the engine. Without properly working spark plugs, your vehicle more than likely would not be able to run at all. If your car is struggling to start when you turn the key in the ignition, or your check engine light appears on the dashboard, it may be time for a replacement. This guide will explain how to change spark plugs in your 2009 - 2014 Acura TSX (CU2). It is also recommended to change plugs every 30,000 miles.

Step 1

Repair step

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Pull the hood latch under the dashboard on the driver's side, to the left of your gas and brake pedal to open the hood of your Acura.
If your Acura has a hood prop rod, place it in the correct location. Most Acura's have hood lifts to help keep the hood in the up position.

Step 2

Repair step

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Using the 10mm socket, remove the four bolts from the cover where spark plugs are located.
Remove the cover and place it in a safe place for reassembly.

Step 3

Repair step

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Use your thumb to push down the latch with your thumb and pull the connector
Don't pull the connector without pressing the latch.

Step 4

Repair step

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Use a 10 mm socket to remove the bolts that are securing the coils.
Pull the ignition coils out.
Place Ignition Coils in order the way you have pulled them out.

Step 5

Repair step

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Use the ratchet extension and 5/8" socket to reach the spark plug and loosen it.
Rotate it counter-clockwise.
Pull the extension up and the spark plug should come up attached to the socket.

Step 6

Repair step

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Check the old spark plug gap using the spark plug gap gauge.
Inspect the old spark plug for blackening or other damage.
The new spark plugs should come pre-gapped and have a cardboard cylindrical sleeve protecting the electrode/air gap.

Step 7

Repair step

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Insert the new spark plug in the 5/8" spark plug socket and screw it in by hand first.
Rotate it clockwise.
Tighten with only the extension and hand. Then attach the ratchet after to gently tighten it.
Do not screw the spark plugs in too tight.

Step 8

Repair step

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Insert the coil packs into the chamber.
Press down on them firmly so that they sit nicely on the top of the plug.
Use the 10 mm deep socket with a wrench and put the 10 mm bolts back in to hold the coils in place and tighten them.

Step 9

Repair step

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Reattach the wire connectors.
Press the connectors in, and they will click into place.

Step 10

Repair step

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Put the engine cover back on.
Insert 4 x 10mm bolts into their place and tighten them with a 10 mm hex driver or socket.