maintenance
Tune-Up - Major
for 2021 Honda Accord 1.5L I4 Turbo · FWD
Difficulty
Moderate
Time
3.0 h
Tools
12
Steps
10
✓Fact-checked. Built from OLP's spec database, then independently fact-checked line by line with every correction applied. Master-tech sign-off by Chris Hackleman is queued. Cross-check torque values against the factory manual, and stop if anything looks unsafe. How our data is made.
Complete major tune-up service for the 2018-2024 Honda Accord 1.5L turbo engine including spark plugs, air filter, cabin filter, oil change, and fluid inspection.
Warnings
⚠️Engine and exhaust components must be cool before starting work. Hot turbocharger and exhaust manifold can cause severe burns.
⚠This turbocharged engine requires precise spark plug torque and gap specifications. Over-torquing can damage aluminum threads in cylinder head.
⚠Use only Honda Genuine 0W-20 oil or equivalent meeting API SN PLUS or SP specification. Incorrect oil can damage turbocharger.
ℹ️Reset maintenance minder system after completion using steering wheel controls or diagnostic tool.
Tools required
10mm socket and ratchetEssential
14mm spark plug socketEssential
Torque wrench (10-150 Nm range)Essential
Oil filter wrenchEssential
Oil drain pan (5+ quart capacity)Essential
Extension bar setEssential
Jack and jack standsEssential
Spark plug gap gaugeEssential
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Parts
- Spark plugs (NGK DILKAR8J8S or equivalent) × 4 — NGK 93317 or Honda OEM
- Engine air filter × 1 — Honda 17220-5AA-A00 or equivalent
- Cabin air filter × 1 — Honda 80292-TBA-A11 or equivalent
- Engine oil filter × 1 — Honda 15400-5A2-A01 or equivalent
- Oil drain plug crush washer × 1 — Honda 94109-14000
As an Amazon Associate and Autel/ANCEL partner, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.
Fluids
- Honda Genuine 0W-20 engine oil — 4 qt
Preparation
- Ensure engine is completely cool (wait at least 2 hours after running)
- Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
- Gather all tools, parts, and fluids before starting
- Lift front of vehicle and secure on jack stands rated for vehicle weight
- Remove engine cover by pulling upward on four corner clips
Procedure
- 1Drain engine oilPosition drain pan under oil pan. Remove oil drain plug using 17mm socket. Allow oil to drain completely for at least 10 minutes. Inspect drain plug threads and oil pan threads for damage. Replace crush washer on drain plug with new one. Reinstall drain plug and torque to specification.Torque specOil Drain Plug35 Nm (26 lb-ft)
- 2Replace oil filterLocate oil filter on passenger side of engine block near firewall. Use oil filter wrench to remove old filter (turn counterclockwise). Clean mounting surface on engine block. Apply thin film of fresh oil to rubber gasket on new filter. Install new filter hand-tight, then turn an additional 3/4 turn. Do not over-tighten.
- 3Replace engine air filterLocate air box on driver side of engine bay. Release four clips securing air box cover. Lift cover and remove old air filter element. Inspect air box housing for debris and clean if necessary. Install new air filter ensuring proper seating. Reinstall cover and secure clips.Torque specAir Box Clips5 Nm (4 lb-ft)
- 4Replace cabin air filterOpen glove box and remove contents. Press inward on both sides of glove box to release stoppers and lower fully. Remove cabin filter access cover by pressing tabs. Slide old cabin filter out noting airflow direction arrow. Insert new cabin filter with arrow pointing toward rear of vehicle. Reinstall access cover and glove box.
- 5Remove ignition coilsDisconnect electrical connector from each ignition coil by pressing release tab and pulling straight up. Remove single mounting bolt from each coil using 10mm socket. Carefully pull each coil straight up from spark plug well. Keep coils in order if reusing. Inspect coil boots for cracks or damage.⚠Do not pull on wiring harness when removing coils. Damage to electrical connector can occur.Torque specMounting Bolts26 Nm (19 lb-ft)
- 6Remove old spark plugsUse compressed air or shop vacuum to clean debris from around spark plug wells before removal. Using 14mm spark plug socket with extension, carefully unthread each spark plug. Turn counterclockwise and maintain straight angle to prevent thread damage. Remove plugs completely and inspect electrodes for abnormal wear or deposits.
- 7Install new spark plugsVerify spark plug gap is 0.028-0.031 inches (0.7-0.8mm) using gap gauge. Apply small amount of anti-seize compound to threads (avoid electrode area). Start each plug by hand into cylinder head, turning clockwise at least 3-4 full turns to ensure proper thread engagement. Use spark plug socket and torque wrench to tighten to 18 Nm (13 lb-ft). Do not over-torque.⚠Spark plugs must be torqued precisely. Under-torquing causes combustion leaks; over-torquing damages aluminum threads.
- 8Reinstall ignition coilsApply dielectric grease to inside of coil boots. Align each coil over corresponding spark plug and press down firmly until fully seated. Install mounting bolt on each coil and torque to specification. Reconnect electrical connector to each coil until click is heard/felt.Torque specMounting Bolts26 Nm (19 lb-ft)
- 9Refill engine oilLower vehicle from jack stands. Remove oil filler cap on top of valve cover. Insert funnel and add 3.5 quarts of Honda Genuine 0W-20 oil. Install oil filler cap. Start engine and run for 30 seconds, then shut off. Wait 2 minutes for oil to settle. Check oil level on dipstick and add remaining oil to reach full mark (between upper and lower holes on dipstick).
- 10Inspect fluids and beltsCheck coolant level in overflow reservoir (should be between MIN and MAX marks when cold). Inspect serpentine belt for cracks, glazing, or fraying. Check brake fluid level in master cylinder reservoir. Verify no oil leaks around drain plug and filter. Inspect for coolant leaks around hoses and connections.
Reassembly
- Reinstall engine cover by aligning clips and pressing down until seated
- Verify all electrical connectors are properly secured
- Ensure all tools and shop rags are removed from engine bay
- Double-check oil drain plug and filter are tight with no leaks
Verification
- Start engine and verify smooth idle with no misfires or rough running
- Check oil pressure warning light extinguishes within 2-3 seconds
- Inspect under vehicle for oil leaks at drain plug and filter after 5 minutes of running
- Verify oil level is correct on dipstick with engine off and cool
- Test drive vehicle and confirm normal acceleration and no check engine light
- Reset maintenance minder: Turn ignition to ON (engine off), press and hold SELECT button until oil life displays, hold SELECT for 10 seconds until display blinks, release and hold SELECT again for 5 seconds to complete reset