Spark Plugs

Replace spark plugs on the 2017 Maserati Levante 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo engine, requiring removal of engine covers and ignition coils to access all six plugs.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Spark plugs (NGK or equivalent OEM spec) × 6 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cold (minimum 2 hours after last operation)
2. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
3. Open hood and secure with prop rod
4. Disconnect negative battery terminal to prevent accidental electrical contact
5. Verify replacement spark plugs match OEM specification for heat range and gap

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove engine cover
   Carefully release the decorative engine cover by unclipping the retaining clips. The cover typically has 4-6 quick-release clips around the perimeter. Lift upward evenly to remove and set aside in a clean area.
   Torque spec

   Engine Cover Clips3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove air intake components
   Disconnect the air intake tube from the throttle body. Release the air box clips and remove any interfering intake ducting to provide access to the right bank of cylinders. Note routing and orientation for reassembly.
   Torque spec

   Air Box Clips5 Nm (4 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Disconnect ignition coil connectors
   Locate all six ignition coils (three per bank). Press the locking tab on each coil electrical connector and carefully pull straight up to disconnect. The connectors may be tight due to weatherproofing seals. Do not pull on wires.
   ⚠Battery should be disconnected before removing coil connectors to prevent potential electrical damage.
4. 4

   Remove ignition coils
   Remove the retaining bolt from each ignition coil using the appropriate socket (typically 8mm or 10mm). Carefully pull each coil straight up with a gentle twisting motion to break the seal. If coils are stuck, use a slight rocking motion but avoid excessive force. Label or arrange coils by cylinder position for reassembly.
   Torque spec

   Ignition Coil Bolt11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Clean spark plug wells
   Use compressed air or a vacuum to thoroughly clean debris from each spark plug well before removal. Any dirt or debris that falls into the cylinder during plug removal can cause engine damage. Ensure each well is completely clean.
   ⚠️Foreign material entering the combustion chamber can cause catastrophic engine damage. Verify wells are completely clean.
6. 6

   Remove old spark plugs
   Using the spark plug socket with extension, carefully loosen each spark plug approximately 1/4 turn to break it free. Once loosened, unscrew completely by hand to maintain alignment and prevent cross-threading. Remove all six plugs and inspect for unusual wear, oil fouling, or deposits that may indicate engine issues.
7. 7

   Inspect plug condition and cylinder health
   Examine each removed plug for electrode wear, carbon deposits, oil contamination, or damage. Normal plugs should have light tan/gray deposits. Heavy oil, excessive carbon, or electrode erosion may indicate mechanical issues. Document any concerns before proceeding.
   ℹ️Plug condition provides diagnostic information. Unusual wear patterns should be investigated before installing new plugs.
8. 8

   Prepare new spark plugs
   Verify the gap on all new spark plugs using a gap tool (typically 0.030"-0.035" for this engine, verify OEM spec). Apply a small amount of anti-seize compound to the threads of each plug, avoiding the electrode area. Use anti-seize sparingly as aluminum heads require careful installation.
   ⚠Do not over-apply anti-seize compound. Excess can contaminate the electrode or enter the combustion chamber.
   Torque spec

   Spark Plug21 Nm (16 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Install new spark plugs
   Carefully thread each new spark plug by hand into its cylinder. Start threads carefully to avoid cross-threading. Once hand-tight, use the torque wrench and spark plug socket to tighten to specification. Work systematically through all six cylinders, ensuring each is properly torqued.
   ⚠️Aluminum cylinder heads are easily damaged by over-torquing. Use a calibrated torque wrench and do not exceed specification.
   Torque spec

   Spark Plug21 Nm (16 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reinstall ignition coils
    Apply a thin coat of dielectric grease to the inside of each ignition coil boot where it contacts the spark plug terminal. Carefully align each coil over its corresponding spark plug and press down firmly until fully seated. The coil should sit flush against the valve cover. Install and torque the retaining bolt for each coil.
    Torque spec

    Ignition Coil Bolt11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect coil connectors
    Reconnect the electrical connector to each ignition coil, pressing firmly until you hear or feel the locking tab click into place. Gently tug each connector to verify it is fully locked. Ensure no wiring is pinched or routed incorrectly.
12. 12

    Reinstall air intake components
    Reinstall any air intake ducting and components removed earlier, ensuring all clips are properly secured and connections are tight. Verify the air intake tube is fully seated on the throttle body.
    Torque spec

    Air Box Clips5 Nm (4 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Reinstall engine cover
    Position the decorative engine cover over the engine, aligning all mounting points. Press down firmly on each clip location until all clips engage and the cover is secure.
    Torque spec

    Engine Cover Clips3 Nm (2 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Reconnect negative battery terminal and tighten securely
2. Double-check all electrical connections are secure and no tools are left in engine bay
3. Verify all removed components have been reinstalled

Verification

• Start engine and listen for smooth idle with no misfires or rough running
• Check for proper engine operation with no warning lights on dashboard
• Verify no fuel smell or abnormal odors from engine compartment
• Allow engine to reach operating temperature and confirm smooth acceleration
• Use an OBD-II scanner to verify no misfire codes are present after test drive

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