Acura TSX: How to Replace Spark Plugs and Ignition Coils

Is it time to replace the spark plugs and ignition coils in your TSX? This article will walk you through the process, step by step.

By Brett Foote - May 11, 2016

This article applies to the Acura TSX (2004-2014).

Replacing the spark plugs and ignition coils in your TSX isn't something that you have to do very often (maybe once in your car's lifetime), but it is important for keeping the car's engine running in tip top shape. Both are important, and if not up to spec, can cause a rough idle, hard starting, misfires and surges, poor fuel economy, as well as poor acceleration. Some Acura TSXs have a four cylinder engine and some came with a V6, but the process is very similar. On the V6 version, you of course have six plugs and coils—three of them are tilted back toward the firewall, and therefore are harder to reach. All of the pictures are of a four cylinder TSX.

Before you dish out hundreds of dollars to a professional to replace your plugs and coils, check out our step-by-step instructions below and save some money by doing it yourself.

Acura TSX: How to Replace Spark Plugs and Ignition Coils

Materials Needed

Replacement plugs and coils
10mm socket and ratchet
5/8" spark plug socket with extension
Anti-seize lubricant
Torque wrench

Step 1 – Remove spark plugs and ignition coils

Before you begin, make sure the engine is cool. Remove the top engine cover using a 10mm socket and ratchet to remove the bolts. Each ignition coil is held in place with a 10mm bolt. Remove the bolts and lift the coils up, one at a time. Disconnect the electrical plug from the side of the coils and then pull the coil out. Use a 5/8" spark plug socket with extension to unscrew and remove the spark plugs.

Figure 1. Remove the plastic engine cover.
Figure 2. Each coil is held down by a single 10mm fastener.
Figure 3. Pull up on coil packs to remove them, then unplug the electrical connection.
Figure 4. You will need an extension and 5/8" socket to reach the spark plugs.

Step 2 – Install new spark plugs and ignition coils

Put a little anti-seize on the threads of each spark plug to prevent them from locking up and getting stuck in the engine block. Place the spark plugs in the socket and carefully lower them into place, then start by hand. Torque each spark plug to 156 in-lbs and be sure not to over-tighten. Plug the connector back into each ignition coil and press it back into place. Reinstall the 10mm hold down bolts. Replace the engine cover and bolts.

Figure 5. Use a small amount of anti-seize for trouble free removal years from now.
Figure 6. Typical Honda/Acura coil packs.
Figure 7. Reinstall coil packs and tighten 10mm bolts.