Items Needed	Tools Required
4 Spark Plugs (We use Bosch 4301 Platinum +2 because we're too lazy to gap the plugs) Antiseize Lubricant	10 mm Socket or spanner Spark Plug socket 7" or 10" socket Extension Shop Towels Nitrile Gloves

Step 1: The Corolla has a protective plastic cover over the top of the engine. It's held in place by two 10mm nuts. Undo these and set them aside in a tin to save them.. Set the cover aside.
Step 2: This model is has a specific ignition coil for each spark plug and they are directly connected to the spark plug. The coil is held down by a 10mm bolt.
Step 3: Remove the bolt with the socket wrench / spanner.

Step 4: The Corolla also has a plastic snap fitting that connects the coil to the ignition harness. Carfully press down on the release tab (on the driver's side of the connector) and wiggle the plug to release it. These plastic connectors become progressively more fragile with time, so always be careful.
Step 5: Use the spark plug socket, extension and rachet to loosen the plug. Then spin it loose by hand. It should only have tension on the first turn and then be easy to spin.
Step 6: Always check your spark plugs. The condition of the plug is indicative of the overall health of the motor. This plug is in relatively good condition, but shows significant wear. We opted (since we've already bought them) to replace the plugs.
Step 7: Put anti-sieze on the new plug and then thread it into the block. The rest of the process is simply the reverse of removal. From there, repeat the overall process for the remaining three spark plugs and you're finished.

You're done! double check your work and take the car for a test drive.

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Name: Michael B	Page Rating: 10	Date:1/27/2010 9:55:29 PM
Great !! a couple extra steps to add
I had to take off two plastic plugs in addition to the two top bolts in step #1. Then I couldn't get the coils out until I removed the metal strip that holds the spark plug wires. It partly covered the coils preventing them from being pulled straight up and out. Great to find your tutorial though !! THANKS !!!

Name: Jody	Page Rating: 10	Date:11/1/2009 8:41:45 AM
Iridium vs. Platinum Plugs
Ok, Here's a basic science lesson. Iridium & Platinum are directly next to each other in the periodic table of the elements. They are both part of the platinum family of elements. If you go into further detail you will note, at an atomic level, that while Iridium has a higher melting point and slightly lower resistivity, the two elements are extraordinarily similar. Now, how does this relate to spark plugs? Well, today's engines need spark plugs that can deal with high speed highway style driving and stop and go type driving. This necessitates the use of precious metals like yttrium, iridium, platinum, tungsten, etc. These are used because they can resist high temperatures far better than old nickel alloy plugs. When you boil down the science to the internal heat of the engine at full operating temperature, compared to the melting point of the two elements (as well as their sparking capabilitity) you'll determine that both plugs operate in the same fashion. It really becomes a matter of preference, and I prefer the Bosch Platinum plugs. The difference between an iridium spark plug and a platinum spark plug in this car is the equivalent of deciding whether you want an orange oil filter or a blue one. It doesn't affect nor impact the operation of the car.

Name: Bill	Page Rating: 1	Date:10/29/2009 8:19:02 AM
Wrong Plugs
You used the wrong plugs. It clearly says in a BLUE sticker on the side of the engine "USE IRIDIUM PLUGS". The owners manual states NGK IFR5A11 or DENSO SK16R11.

Name: Beth	Page Rating: 9	Date:7/23/2009 10:05:25 PM
Sweet!
I've never changed spark plugs before, bet my boyfriend $50 I could do it. So... thanks. He owes me $50. And I learned to leave the fuel injectors alone :D

Name: Peter	Page Rating: 1	Date:7/2/2009 10:33:01 AM
Changing Spark Plugs
Your diagrams are great. Without them, I would not have found the plugs. Thank you so much.

Name:	Page Rating: 1	Date:5/11/2009 7:12:24 PM

great i am going to try it suneet chicago

Name: Alessandro	Page Rating: 10	Date:3/1/2009 1:42:00 PM
Thanks
Thanks for your help. Now I know where they are, and can leave alone the injectors...

Name: Jim Tracey	Page Rating: 10	Date:1/4/2009 8:54:13 AM
Thank you
Thank you for the excellent instructions. Made changing the spark plugs a non-event. Regards...Jim

Name: john luse	Page Rating: 10	Date:12/8/2008 4:38:34 PM
thankyou from an old mechanic!

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