GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Spark Plug Replacement 2.4L

Tools Required

J 36011 Spark Plug Boot Insulator Remover

Notice: The recommended change interval for the platinum tip spark plugs is 100000 miles. If a spark plug is removed from the engine and there is no malfunction associated with the plug, reinstall the old plug in the engine.

Notice: This engine has aluminum cylinder heads. Do not remove the spark plugs from a hot engine, allow it to cool first. Removing the spark plugs from a hot engine may cause spark plug thread damage or cylinder head damage.

Removal Procedure

  1. Turn OFF the ignition.

  2. Object Number: 97618  Size: SH
  3. Remove 4 bolts and the connector from the electronic ignition module assembly.
  4. Pull straight up on the module assembly housing. Remove the module assembly.
  5. Use the J 36011 in order to remove any connector assemblies stuck to the spark plugs.
  6. Use the J 36011 by first twisting and then pulling up on the connector assembly.

  7. Remove debris from the area around the spark plugs.
  8. Remove the spark plugs using a spark plug socket.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 97618  Size: SH

    Important: While gapping the plug, ensure that the platinum pads remain aligned. Failure to keep the pads aligned will shorten the plug life.

  1. Adjust the spark plug gap using a round wire type spark plug gap gauge.
  2. Gap

        • For 2.4L - Allow a gap of 1.27 mm (0.050 in).
        • For 3.4L - Allow a gap of 1.52 mm (0.060 in).

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  3. Hand start the spark plugs into the cylinder head, then tighten the plugs.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the spark plugs to 18 N·m (13 lb ft).

  5. Apply dielectric lubricant GM P/N 12345579 or equivalent to the insulator boots.
  6. Reinstall onto the module assembly any spark plug boot connector assembly that stuck to a spark plug. Verify that the spring terminal is inside the boot.
  7. Place the module assembly directly over the spark plugs. Push straight down.
  8. Remove any lubricant that is present on the module-assembly-to-cam-housing bolts.
  9. Apply threadlocker GM P/N 12345382 or equivalent onto the module-assembly-to-cam-housing bolts.
  10. Important: Hand start the module-assembly-to-cam-housing bolts.

  11. Install the bolts.
  12. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 22 N·m (16 lb ft).

  13. Connect the electrical connector.

Spark Plug Replacement 3.4L

Notice: The recommended change interval for the platinum tip spark plugs is 100000 miles. If a spark plug is removed from the engine and there is no malfunction associated with the plug, reinstall the old plug in the engine.

Notice: This engine has aluminum cylinder heads. Do not remove the spark plugs from a hot engine, allow it to cool first. Removing the spark plugs from a hot engine may cause spark plug thread damage or cylinder head damage.

Removal Procedure

  1. Turn OFF the ignition.
  2. Remove debris from the area around the spark plug holes.
  3. Notice: Pull on the spark plug boot, the heat shield or use an approved spark plug boot removal tool, twisting a half-turn to release the seal while removing. Do not pull on the spark plug wire or it may be damaged.

  4. Disconnect the spark plug wires. Refer to Spark Plug Wire Harness Replacement .
  5. Remove the spark plugs using a spark plug socket.

Installation Procedure

    Important: While gapping the plug, ensure that the platinum pads remain aligned. Failure to keep the pads aligned will shorten the plug life.

  1. Adjust the spark plug gap using a round wire type spark plug gap gauge.
  2. Specification
    Spark Plug Gap 1.52 mm (.060in)

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  3. Hand start the spark plugs into the cylinder head, then tighten the plugs.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the spark plugs to 20 N·m (15 lb ft).

  5. Apply dielectric lubricant GM P/N 12345579 to the insulator boots.
  6. Install the spark plug wires. Refer to Spark Plug Wire Harness Replacement In Engine Electrical