Where Are the Spark Plugs in an '01 4Runner?

Gasoline is becoming more expensive every day. At at average gas price of $4 per gallon, the thought of poor fuel mileage can make anyone cringe. Replacing the spark plugs in your 2001 Toyota 4Runner can help maintain the engine's efficiency and keep you from losing that precious fuel mileage.

Instructions

1

Park the vehicle on a flat surface and set the parking brake. Allow the engine to cool down. Check the gap on all of the spark plugs. If they are not gaped at 1.1 mm then return them to the auto parts store. Open the hood. Remove the air intake tube between the air filter housing and the engine by loosening the hose clamps with the screwdriver. Mark the small vacuum lines connected to the intake tube so that you can later install them in the same spot. Remove the lines by pulling them off. You may need to lightly pry on them with the screwdriver. Locate the three ignition coils on the passenger side of the engine. They look like black squares on the valve covers and each one will have a spark plug wire going to the other side of the engine.

2

Replace the spark plugs one at a time. Start with the driver's side of the engine. Remove the spark plug wire by pulling up on it and twisting it slightly. Inspect the spark plug wire for any damage or cracking. Replace all three plug wires if any of them are damaged. Using the ratchet with the extension and the spark plug socket, remove the spark plug. Install the new spark plug by hand. Torque the spark plug to 13 foot pounds with the torque wrench. Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the inside of the spark plug wire. This will keep it from seizing to the spark plug. Push the spark plug wire onto the spark plug until you feel it snap into place.

3

On the passenger side of the engine you will need to remove the ignition coils to replace the spark plugs. Replace them one at a time. Disconnect the electrical connector from the coil by pressing on the locking tab and pulling the connector off. Remove the 10 mm bolt and pull the coil from the plug while twisting the coil slightly. Inspect the coil boot for damage and replace it if necessary. Remove the spark plug. Install the new spark plug by hand. Torque the plug to 13 foot pounds. Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the inside of the spark plug boot. Install the coil onto the plug and torque the bolt to 69 inch pounds. Install the connector by pressing it into the coil until you feel a click.

4

Install the air intake tube to the air filter housing and the engine. Tighten the hose clamps with the screwdriver. Install the vacuum hoses that you previously marked. Remove any loose tools from under the hood. Start the engine and check for proper running.