This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the ignition control module (ICM) on the 2015-2020 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost engine, including ignition coil removal and spark plug access.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Ignition control module × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Ignition coil O-rings (if worn) × 6 — Motorcraft DG-511

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
2. Allow engine to cool completely (minimum 2 hours after last operation)
3. Disconnect negative battery cable and wait 5 minutes for system capacitors to discharge
4. Remove engine cover by pulling upward on the cover - it is retained by grommets
5. Clean the valve cover area around ignition coils with compressed air to prevent debris from entering cylinders

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect ignition coil electrical connectors
   Locate all six ignition coil connectors on top of the engine. Press the locking tab on each connector and pull straight up to disconnect. Note the firing order and coil positions for reassembly: Bank 1 (passenger side) cylinders 1-3 from front to rear, Bank 2 (driver side) cylinders 4-6 from front to rear.
2. 2

   Remove ignition coils
   Remove the single 7mm bolt securing each ignition coil. Grasp each coil firmly and pull straight up with a twisting motion to break the seal. If coils are stuck, gently twist back and forth while pulling - do not pry against the valve cover. Inspect the coil boots and O-rings for damage or deterioration.
   Torque spec

   Ignition Coil Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Locate ignition control module
   The ignition control module is mounted on the intake manifold near the front of the engine on the passenger side. It is a rectangular black module with a large multi-pin connector on top. Clear any wiring or hoses that may obstruct access to the module.
4. 4

   Disconnect ICM electrical connector
   Press down on the red locking slider or tab on the main ICM connector, then press the release tab and carefully pull the connector straight up. Do not bend or twist the connector - it may be stiff if this is the first removal. Inspect connector pins for corrosion or damage.
   ⚠The connector locking mechanism varies by production date. Some use a sliding lock while others have a lift tab. Examine carefully before applying force
5. 5

   Remove ICM mounting bolts
   Remove the mounting bolts securing the ICM to the intake manifold or bracket using a 10mm socket. The module is typically secured with 2-3 bolts depending on configuration. Keep track of any ground straps or brackets that may be secured by these bolts.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts31 Nm (23 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove ignition control module
   Carefully lift the ignition control module straight up and away from the mounting surface. Note the orientation and position of any alignment pins or dowels. Inspect the mounting surface and clean if necessary.
7. 7

   Clean mounting surfaces and connectors
   Clean the ICM mounting surface on the intake manifold with a clean rag. Use electrical contact cleaner on the main connector terminals if any corrosion or contamination is present. Allow to dry completely before installing new module.
   ℹ️Do not use aggressive solvents on plastic connector bodies. Use only electrical contact cleaner designed for automotive applications
8. 8

   Install new ignition control module
   Position the new ICM onto the mounting location, ensuring proper alignment with any dowel pins or locating features. Verify the module sits flush against the mounting surface before installing bolts.
9. 9

   Install and torque ICM mounting bolts
   Install the mounting bolts finger-tight, ensuring any ground straps or brackets are properly positioned. Torque the mounting bolts in a crossing pattern to specification using a torque wrench.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts31 Nm (23 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect ICM electrical connector
    Align the main electrical connector with the module terminal and press down firmly until it clicks into place. Ensure the locking tab or slider engages fully. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is secured.
11. 11

    Reinstall ignition coils
    Apply a thin coat of dielectric grease to the inside of each coil boot. If spark plugs were removed or serviced, apply anti-seize compound to spark plug threads and torque to specification before installing coils. Insert each coil straight down into its cylinder bore, ensuring proper seating. Install and hand-tighten the 7mm retaining bolt on each coil.
    ⚠Do not over-torque ignition coil bolts. The valve cover threads are aluminum and can strip easily
    Torque spec

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

    Ignition Coil Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reconnect ignition coil connectors
    Reconnect the electrical connector to each ignition coil by pressing down until a click is heard. Verify each connector is fully seated and locked in place. Route wiring to avoid contact with hot exhaust components or moving parts.
13. 13

    Reinstall engine cover and reconnect battery
    Align the engine cover with the mounting grommets and press down firmly until seated. Reconnect the negative battery cable and tighten the terminal nut securely.

Reassembly

1. Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Ensure no tools or parts are left in the engine bay
3. Double-check that all ignition coil bolts are torqued to specification
4. Confirm engine cover is properly seated on all mounting grommets

Verification

• Turn ignition key to ON position (do not start) and verify no warning lights illuminate on the dashboard beyond normal bulb check
• Start the engine and verify smooth idle with no misfires or rough running
• Allow engine to reach operating temperature and verify no check engine light illuminates
• Perform a test drive and monitor for proper acceleration and smooth operation under load
• Use an OBD-II scanner to check for pending or stored ignition-related trouble codes
• Verify there are no fuel odors or signs of spark plug well oil leaks after test drive

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