How to Correct a Spark Plug Gap on a 2000 Hyundai Accent

The Hyundai Accent was introduced in 1998. The 2000 Hyundai Accent was equipped with a 1.5-liter, in-line, four-cylinder engine with 92 horsepower and 97 foot-pounds of torque. When you replace the spark plugs, you must check that the plug gap for each plug is within specification, and adjust it if necessary.

Instructions

1

Raise the hood of the Accent, and set the hood prop. Locate the spark plug wires, at the front of the engine on the top.

2

Remove one spark plug wire from the spark plug, using your hand to pull the wire boot free with a twisting motion. Always pull on the boot -- not the wire itself. Replace one plug at a time, so you don't mix up the wires.

3

Remove the exposed spark plug, using a ratchet, spark plug socket and 6-inch extension. Spark plug sockets work better than standard sockets, as they are equipped with a rubber grommet for grabbing hold of the spark plug during removal and installation. Turn the spark plug counterclockwise, until the spark plug spins easily. Remove the ratchet from the upper end of the extension, and spin the extension and socket like a screwdriver, to remove the spark plug completely.

4

Use a gapping tool to measure the gap between the center and side electrodes on the plug. The correct gap for this engine is 0.044 inch. Adjust the gap as necessary, using the slot on the tool to gently bend the side electrode in or out as necessary.

5

Reinstall the spark plug, and tighten the plug to 11 foot-pounds, using a torque wrench, extension, and spark plug socket. Reinstall the spark plug wire, by simply pushing it onto the plug with your hand.

6

Repeat Steps 2 through 5 to check and adjust the three remaining spark plugs in the Accent.