This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the ignition control module on the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine, which controls ignition timing and coil operation.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Ignition control module × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Thermal paste (if not pre-applied) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Allow engine to cool completely (minimum 2 hours after operation)
3. Disconnect negative battery cable and wait 10 minutes
4. Remove engine cover by pulling upward on cover - it is retained by grommets

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove ignition coils
   Disconnect the electrical connectors from all six ignition coils by pressing the release tab and pulling straight up. Remove the single 7mm bolt from each coil and carefully pull each coil straight up out of the spark plug wells. Mark or photograph coil positions for proper reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Ignition Coil Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Access ignition control module
   The ignition control module is located on the driver's side valve cover near the firewall. Remove any harness clips or brackets securing wiring that obstructs access to the module. On some models, you may need to move the wiring harness aside.
3. 3

   Disconnect electrical connectors
   Locate the two main electrical connectors on the ignition control module. Press the red safety tabs outward, then depress the connector release tabs while pulling the connectors straight off the module. These connectors have secondary locks that must be released before the primary connector can be removed.
   ⚠Do not pull on wires - always grasp the connector body to avoid damaging terminals
4. 4

   Remove mounting bolts
   Remove the three 10mm mounting bolts securing the ignition control module to the valve cover bracket. Support the module while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts31 Nm (23 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove ignition control module
   Carefully lift the ignition control module away from the valve cover. Note the orientation and any thermal compound or gasket material on the mounting surface. If thermal paste is present, clean the mounting surface on the valve cover bracket thoroughly with electrical contact cleaner.
6. 6

   Prepare new module
   Inspect the new ignition control module for pre-applied thermal paste on the mounting surface. If no thermal paste is present, apply a thin, even layer to the mounting surface of the new module or the valve cover bracket mounting surface (not both). Ensure electrical terminals are clean and free of debris.
   ℹ️Use only approved thermal compound - excessive or improper compound can cause overheating
7. 7

   Install new module
   Position the new ignition control module onto the valve cover bracket, ensuring proper alignment of mounting holes and that the module sits flush against the mounting surface. Start all three mounting bolts by hand before tightening any of them.
8. 8

   Torque mounting bolts
   Using a torque wrench, tighten the three mounting bolts in a star pattern (alternating between bolts) to 31.0 Nm (23 lb-ft). This ensures even pressure and proper thermal contact.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts31 Nm (23 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connectors
   Reconnect both electrical connectors to the ignition control module, ensuring they seat fully with an audible click. Push the red safety locks back into their locked positions. Gently tug on each connector to verify secure connection.
10. 10

    Reinstall ignition coils
    Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the inside of each ignition coil boot. Insert each coil back into its original spark plug well, ensuring it seats fully onto the spark plug. Install and hand-tighten the 7mm bolt for each coil, then torque to 8.0 Nm (6 lb-ft). Reconnect all coil electrical connectors.
    ⚠Ensure coils are fully seated before tightening bolts - a partially seated coil will cause misfires
    Torque spec

    Ignition Coil Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reinstall harness and brackets
    Secure any wiring harnesses or brackets that were removed for access. Ensure no wires are pinched or routed incorrectly. Reinstall the engine cover by aligning grommets and pressing firmly until seated.
12. 12

    Reconnect battery and initialize
    Reconnect the negative battery cable and tighten securely. The vehicle may require a relearn procedure - start the engine and allow it to idle for at least 5 minutes. Some modules may require a scan tool initialization or programming at a dealer.
    ℹ️Some ignition control modules require dealer programming to match VIN - verify before purchasing aftermarket parts

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated with safety locks engaged
2. Verify all ignition coils are properly torqued and connected
3. Confirm engine cover is properly seated on all mounting grommets
4. Double-check that no tools or parts were left in the engine bay

Verification

• Start the engine and verify it runs smoothly without misfires or rough idle
• Check for diagnostic trouble codes using an OBD-II scanner - clear any codes present before the repair
• Allow engine to reach operating temperature and verify smooth operation
• Test drive vehicle under various loads to confirm proper ignition timing and performance
• Verify no warning lights are illuminated on the instrument cluster

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