How to Change Spark Plugs on a 1998 Toyota Camry

Changing the spark plugs on a 2008 Toyota Camry is pretty simple.

Changing the spark plugs on a 1998 Toyota Camry couldn't be simpler. Unlike most modern cars, the spark plugs on the Camry are easy to reach, and changing them is pretty cut and dried. You should replace the plugs every 75,000 to 100,000 miles. Changing the spark plugs is as simple as removing the old plugs as cleanly as possible and replacing them with new plugs. After you've changed your spark plugs once, the next time will be even easier.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Socket wrench
• Socket-wrench extension
• 5/8-inch spark plug socket
• Compressed or canned air
• Torque wrench

1. • 1

     Prop open the hood of the Camry.

   • 2

     Disconnect the wire from each of the four spark plugs, which are on the top-rear side of the gray valve cover that sits on top of the engine. Each spark plug is encased in a rubber grommet that has a rubber-coated wire extending from the top of it. All four wires are secured across the valve cover and connect to the right side of the engine.

   • 3

     Blow air into the hole containing each spark plug to remove any dirt and debris around the plug. Be sure to do this before you remove the spark plugs so you don't contaminate the chamber.

   • 4

     Attach the 5/8-inch spark plug socket and the extension to the socket wrench. Fit the socket on one of the spark plugs and turn it counterclockwise to unscrew it. Remove the spark plug once you've unscrewed it. The spark plug socket is lined with rubber grips, so it should grip the spark plug firmly and allow you to pull it out.

   • 5

     Repeat Step 4 for the other three spark plugs.

   • 6

     Insert a new spark plug in one of the holes. Adjust the torque wrench to the desired amount of torque, which for a used Camry is 11 pounds. Add the extension and the 5/8-inch socket to the torque wrench.

   • 7

     Tighten the spark plug by turning it clockwise with the torque wrench until the wrench won't turn any more. This signifies that the spark plug has been tightened with the correct amount of torque. Repeat for the other three spark plugs.

   • 8

     Replace the spark plug wires by fitting the rubber grommet on the spark plug and pushing down until you hear a popping sound, which signals that you have the proper fit. Replace the spark plug wires in order of length. The shortest goes to the closest plug, while the longest wire goes to the farthest plug.

   • 9

     Close the hood.

Tips & Warnings

• There are different types of torque wrenches. The one identified here, which doesn't allow tightening beyond the set amount of pressure, is used most often in auto repair shops. On some torque wrenches, you'll hear a "click" when you've reached the desired amount of torque. Others have an electronic or analog readout that shows exactly how much torque is being applied as the tightening takes place.