This procedure covers the removal and replacement of a single ignition coil on the 5.0L Coyote V8 engine in a 2011-2014 Ford F-150 4WD.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Ignition coil × 1 — Motorcraft DG-511 or equivalent
• Spark plug (if damaged or due for replacement) × 1 — Motorcraft SP-534 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cool to the touch
2. Disconnect negative battery cable and wait 2 minutes to allow residual voltage to dissipate
3. Identify which cylinder requires coil replacement (cylinders numbered 1-4 passenger side front to rear, 5-8 driver side front to rear)
4. Clear any debris from around the target ignition coil area to prevent contamination

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the ignition coil
   Locate the faulty ignition coil on top of the engine. On the 5.0L Coyote, coils are mounted directly on top of the valve covers. You may need to move wiring harnesses or hoses aside for better access, but typically no removal of other components is required for most coil positions.
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Press the locking tab on the electrical connector and pull straight up to disconnect it from the ignition coil. Do not pull on the wires themselves. Inspect the connector terminals for corrosion or damage.
3. 3

   Remove ignition coil bolt
   Using a 7mm socket or nut driver, remove the single bolt securing the ignition coil to the valve cover. Keep the bolt in a safe place for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Ignition Coil Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Extract ignition coil
   Grasp the ignition coil firmly and pull straight up with a twisting motion to break it free from the spark plug. The coil boot may stick due to heat cycling. Do not rock side to side excessively as this can damage the spark plug ceramic insulator. If stuck, gently twist while pulling upward.
5. 5

   Inspect spark plug well
   Use compressed air to blow out any debris from the spark plug well. Inspect for oil pooling, which indicates a valve cover gasket leak that should be addressed. Check the spark plug porcelain for cracks or damage. If the coil failed, the spark plug should be inspected and likely replaced.
6. 6

   Replace spark plug if necessary
   If replacing the spark plug, use a spark plug socket to remove the old plug. Apply a thin coat of anti-seize to the threads of the new spark plug (avoid getting any on the electrode). Thread by hand first to avoid cross-threading, then torque to specification. Gap should be pre-set to 0.051-0.057 inches for this engine.
   Torque spec

   Spark Plugs - Aluminum Head20 Nm (15 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Prepare new ignition coil
   Inspect the new ignition coil boot for any damage. Apply a thin coating of dielectric grease inside the coil boot where it contacts the spark plug insulator. This prevents moisture intrusion and makes future removal easier. Also apply dielectric grease to the electrical connector terminals.
8. 8

   Install new ignition coil
   Align the ignition coil boot with the spark plug and push down firmly while twisting slightly until the coil seats fully on the valve cover. Ensure the mounting hole aligns properly. The coil should sit flush against the valve cover surface.
9. 9

   Install coil mounting bolt
   Install the ignition coil bolt and torque to specification using a torque wrench. Do not overtighten as this can crack the coil housing or strip the threads in the valve cover.
   Torque spec

   Ignition Coil Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Push the electrical connector onto the ignition coil until you hear and feel a distinct click, indicating the locking tab has engaged. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is locked in place.
11. 11

    Restore battery connection
    Reconnect the negative battery cable. Ensure the connection is tight and secure.

Reassembly

1. No additional reassembly required beyond installation steps
2. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
3. Route any wiring harnesses or hoses moved during the procedure back to their original positions

Verification

• Start the engine and listen for smooth idle. There should be no misfiring or rough running
• Verify the check engine light does not illuminate or that previous misfire codes have cleared
• Use a scan tool to check for any new diagnostic trouble codes related to the repaired cylinder
• Perform a test drive and confirm normal engine performance under acceleration and load
• Inspect around the repaired ignition coil for any signs of arcing or electrical discharge during darkness if possible

More procedures for this vehicle