ignition
Ignition Coil - Single
for 2021 Honda Civic 1.5L I4 Turbo · FWD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
30 min
Tools
6
Steps
11
This procedure covers the removal and replacement of a single ignition coil on the 2016-2021 Honda Civic 1.5L turbocharged engine.
Warnings
⚠Allow engine to cool completely before beginning work to avoid burns from hot components.
⚠Do not disconnect ignition coils while engine is running as this can damage the ignition system.
ℹ️Label or photograph coil connector orientation before removal to ensure correct reinstallation.
Tools required
10mm socketEssential
Ratchet and extensionEssential
Torque wrenchEssential
Spark plug socket (14mm or 5/8")
Dielectric grease
Anti-seize compound
Parts
- Ignition coil × 1 — Use OEM specification
Preparation
- Ensure engine is completely cool to the touch
- Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
- Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
- Open hood and secure with prop rod
Procedure
- 1Locate the faulty ignition coilThe ignition coils are located on top of the engine, directly above each spark plug. Identify which cylinder requires coil replacement. Cylinders are numbered 1-4 from the timing belt end (passenger side) to the transmission end (driver side).
- 2Remove engine cover if equippedIf your Civic has a plastic engine cover, remove it by pulling upward on the cover to disengage the rubber grommets. Some models may have screws that need removal.Torque specCover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
- 3Disconnect the ignition coil electrical connectorPress down on the locking tab of the electrical connector while pulling it away from the ignition coil. The connector pulls straight up and off the coil. Do not pull on the wiring harness itself.
- 4Remove the ignition coil boltUsing a 10mm socket, remove the single bolt securing the ignition coil to the valve cover. The bolt is located at the top center of the coil pack. Keep the bolt in a safe place for reinstallation.Torque specIgnition Coil Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
- 5Extract the ignition coilGrasp the ignition coil firmly and pull straight up with a gentle twisting motion to remove it from the spark plug well. The coil boot may create slight resistance. Inspect the rubber boot on the bottom of the coil for tears, cracks, or carbon tracking.
- 6Inspect spark plug wellCheck the spark plug well for any oil, coolant, or debris. If oil is present, this indicates a valve cover gasket or spark plug tube seal leak that should be addressed. Clean any debris from the well using compressed air or a clean cloth.
- 7Prepare new ignition coilApply a thin coat of dielectric grease to the inside of the rubber boot on the new ignition coil. This helps with future removal and protects against moisture. Do not over-apply as excess grease can cause misfires.
- 8Install new ignition coilInsert the new ignition coil into the spark plug well, ensuring it seats fully onto the spark plug. Push down firmly until you feel the coil bottom out on the spark plug terminal. The coil should sit flush with the valve cover.
- 9Install ignition coil boltThread the ignition coil bolt by hand to avoid cross-threading, then tighten to specification using a torque wrench. Do not overtighten as this can crack the coil housing.Torque specIgnition Coil Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
- 10Reconnect electrical connectorPush the electrical connector onto the top of the ignition coil until you hear and feel a distinct click. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked in place.
- 11Reinstall engine coverIf removed, align the engine cover with the mounting grommets and press down firmly until all grommets are seated. If equipped with screws, torque to specification.Torque specCover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
Reassembly
- Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
- Ensure engine cover is properly secured if equipped
- 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 any illuminated check engine lights on the dashboard
- Listen for any unusual sounds from the ignition system
- If a misfire code was present, clear the code with a scan tool and verify it does not return after a test drive
- Perform a brief test drive to confirm normal engine operation under load