ignition

Distributor Cap and Rotor

for 2017 Maserati Levante 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo · AWD

Editorial review:Chris Hackleman — Master Technician · 20+ years · Jeff Moore — Master Lexus & Toyota Mechanic · 20+ years

Difficulty

Expert

Time

1.5 h

Tools

Steps

✓Expert-verified. Personally reviewed and approved by OLP's master technicians (Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — 20+ years each). Always follow the vehicle's factory service information and torque specs.

This procedure addresses a non-existent component on the 2017 Maserati Levante 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo, as this engine uses a coil-on-plug ignition system without a distributor cap or rotor.

Warnings

⚠️This engine does NOT have a distributor cap or rotor. It uses a distributorless coil-on-plug ignition system. This procedure explains the actual ignition system architecture.

⚠Allow engine to cool completely before working near ignition components to prevent burns.

ℹ️If you were referred here for ignition problems, you likely need ignition coil diagnosis or spark plug replacement instead.

Tools required

OBD-II scannerEssential

10mm socketEssential

Ratchet and extension setEssential

Torx driver setEssential

Dielectric grease

Compressed air

Parts

Ignition coil (if faulty) × 1 — Use OEM Maserati specification
Spark plug (if needed) × 6 — NGK or Champion OEM equivalent

Preparation

Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
Allow engine to cool completely (minimum 2 hours after running)
Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 10 minutes for system discharge
Remove engine cover by pulling upward on front clips and lifting off
Clear any debris from spark plug valley areas using compressed air

Procedure

1
Verify Ignition System Type
Confirm that the 2017 Maserati Levante 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo uses a coil-on-plug (COP) ignition system. Locate the six individual ignition coils mounted directly on top of each spark plug on both cylinder banks. There is no distributor, cap, or rotor on this engine.
2
Scan for Diagnostic Trouble Codes
Connect OBD-II scanner to diagnostic port located under driver side dashboard. Scan for any ignition-related codes (P0300-P0306 series for misfires, P0351-P0356 for coil circuits). Document all codes to identify which cylinder(s) may have issues.
3
Access Left Bank Ignition Coils (Cylinders 1, 3, 5)
Remove any plastic covers or harness clips obstructing access to the left cylinder bank ignition coils. Disconnect the electrical connectors from each coil by pressing the release tab and pulling straight up. Note the cylinder numbering for reassembly.
4
Access Right Bank Ignition Coils (Cylinders 2, 4, 6)
Repeat access procedure for right cylinder bank. On this side, you may need to move aside additional wiring harnesses or coolant hoses. Disconnect all three coil electrical connectors.
5
Remove Ignition Coil Hold-Down Bolts
Using a 10mm socket, remove the single bolt securing each ignition coil to the valve cover. Keep bolts organized by cylinder number. The coils are held by friction-fit into the spark plug tubes after bolt removal.
6
Extract Ignition Coils
Carefully pull each ignition coil straight up and out of the spark plug tube. Use a slight twisting motion if needed to break the seal. Inspect the coil boot for cracks, carbon tracking, or oil contamination. Any damaged coils should be replaced.
7
Inspect Spark Plug Wells
Use compressed air to clean any debris from spark plug wells. Check for oil pooling in the wells, which indicates valve cover gasket or seal failure. Oil contamination will damage ignition coils and must be addressed before reassembly.
8
Inspect or Replace Spark Plugs
If performing ignition system service, use appropriate spark plug socket to remove plugs. Inspect electrode wear and gap. Replace spark plugs if showing wear, carbon buildup, or oil fouling. This engine requires specific heat range plugs per Maserati specification.
9
Apply Dielectric Grease to Coil Boots
Apply a thin layer of dielectric grease to the inside of each ignition coil boot. This prevents moisture intrusion and makes future removal easier. Do not over-apply as excess can attract debris.
10
Reinstall Ignition Coils
Insert each ignition coil straight down into its spark plug tube, ensuring proper seating on the spark plug terminal. Install and hand-tighten the 10mm hold-down bolt for each coil, then snug firmly but do not overtighten as valve covers are aluminum.
11
Reconnect Electrical Connectors
Reconnect each ignition coil electrical connector, ensuring they click into place. Verify each connection is secure and the locking tab is fully engaged. Route any displaced wiring harnesses back to original positions.
12
Reinstall Engine Components
Replace engine cover and any removed components. Reconnect negative battery terminal. Allow vehicle computer systems to initialize for approximately 30 seconds before starting.

Reassembly

Ensure all ignition coil electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
Verify engine cover is properly clipped in place
Double-check that no tools or materials were left in engine bay

Verification

Start engine and listen for smooth idle with no misfires or rough running
Perform test drive under various load conditions to verify proper ignition performance
Rescan with OBD-II scanner to confirm no ignition-related fault codes are present
Monitor for any new engine warning lights on instrument cluster during first 50 miles of driving