ignition
Ignition Control Module
for 2021 Honda Accord 1.5L I4 Turbo · FWD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
1.0 h
Tools
7
Steps
13
This procedure covers the replacement of the ignition control module (ignition coil pack assembly) on the 2018-2024 Honda Accord with the 1.5L turbocharged engine.
Warnings
⚠Allow engine to cool completely before beginning work to prevent burns from hot components
⚠Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 3 minutes before working on ignition system to prevent electrical shock or accidental deployment of safety systems
ℹ️The ignition control module on this engine is integrated with the individual ignition coils; this procedure replaces individual coil units, not a separate module
Tools required
10mm socket and ratchetEssential
Socket extension (6-inch)Essential
Torque wrench (5-30 Nm range)Essential
Flathead screwdriver or trim tool
Dielectric grease
Anti-seize compoundEssential
Compressed air or clean cloth
Parts
- Ignition control module (ignition coil pack) × 1 — Use OEM Honda part or quality aftermarket
- Engine cover clips (if damaged) × 1 — OEM replacement clips
Preparation
- Ensure engine is completely cool to the touch
- Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
- Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait at least 3 minutes
- Gather all tools and replacement parts before beginning
Procedure
- 1Remove engine coverGrasp the engine cover firmly and pull upward to disengage the retaining clips. The cover is held by push-clips only and does not require tool removal. Set the cover aside in a clean area.
- 2Locate the ignition coilsIdentify the four ignition coils mounted directly on top of the engine cylinder head. Each coil sits directly above its corresponding spark plug. Note which cylinder position corresponds to the faulty coil if replacing only one unit.
- 3Disconnect electrical connectorsPress the locking tab on each ignition coil electrical connector and pull straight up to disconnect. If replacing only one coil, disconnect only the affected cylinder. Mark connector positions if needed for reassembly reference.
- 4Remove ignition coil hold-down boltsUsing a 10mm socket with extension, remove the single bolt securing each ignition coil to the valve cover. Keep bolts organized by cylinder position if replacing multiple coils.Torque specIgnition Coil Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
- 5Extract ignition coilsGrasp each ignition coil firmly and pull straight up with steady pressure to remove from the spark plug well. The coil may resist due to the rubber boot seal. Twist gently while pulling if needed, but avoid excessive force that could damage the spark plug terminal.⚠Do not pry against the coil body or use excessive force, as this can damage the spark plug ceramic insulator
- 6Inspect spark plug wellsUse compressed air or a clean lint-free cloth to remove any debris, oil, or moisture from the spark plug wells. Inspect for oil accumulation which may indicate valve cover gasket failure requiring separate attention. Ensure spark plug wells are completely clean and dry before proceeding.ℹ️Oil in spark plug wells can cause misfires and should be addressed before installing new coils
- 7Inspect spark plug conditionWith coils removed, visually inspect the top of each spark plug for damage, unusual wear, or deposits. If spark plugs show excessive wear or if vehicle has over 60,000 miles, consider replacing spark plugs at this time as they are already accessible.
- 8Prepare new ignition coilsRemove new ignition coils from packaging and inspect for shipping damage. Apply a thin coat of dielectric grease to the inside of the rubber boot that contacts the spark plug terminal. This aids in future removal and prevents moisture intrusion.
- 9Install new ignition coilsAlign each new ignition coil with its spark plug well and carefully push down until the coil boot fully seats on the spark plug terminal. The coil should sit flush against the valve cover mounting surface. Ensure proper alignment before applying pressure to avoid damaging the spark plug.
- 10Install and torque coil hold-down boltsThread each ignition coil mounting bolt by hand to ensure proper thread engagement, then torque to specification using a torque wrench. Do not over-tighten as this can crack the coil housing or strip the aluminum valve cover threads.Torque specIgnition Coil Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
- 11Reconnect electrical connectorsPush each electrical connector onto its corresponding ignition coil until you hear and feel a positive click, indicating the locking tab has engaged. Gently tug on each connector to verify secure connection.
- 12Reinstall engine coverPosition the engine cover over the engine, aligning the mounting clips with their receptacles. Press down firmly at each clip location until all clips fully engage with an audible snap.
- 13Reconnect batteryReconnect the negative battery terminal and tighten securely. The vehicle may require a drive cycle for the PCM to relearn idle and fuel trims after battery disconnection.
Reassembly
- Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked in place
- Verify engine cover clips are properly engaged on all sides
- Double-check that no tools or parts were left in the engine compartment
Verification
- Start the engine and verify it runs smoothly without misfires or rough idle
- Check that the malfunction indicator lamp (check engine light) does not illuminate with ignition-related codes
- Listen for unusual sounds from the ignition coils such as arcing or buzzing
- If a scan tool is available, verify there are no pending or active misfire codes (P0300-P0304)
- Test drive the vehicle under various load conditions to confirm smooth operation and proper acceleration