2017 Honda Accord Spark Plug Replacement

Ever notice your trusty 2017 Honda Accord feeling a bit sluggish? Maybe the fuel economy isn’t what it used to be, or there’s a slight hesitation when you hit the gas? You’re not alone. These are common signs that your spark plugs might be ready for retirement. Ignoring them can lead to bigger problems and costly repairs down the road.

At FatBoysOffroad, we believe every car owner, from the weekend warrior to the seasoned off-roader, should feel confident tackling essential maintenance. That’s why we’re here to promise you a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to a 2017 Honda Accord spark plug replacement. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from gathering the right tools to the final torque specifications, ensuring your Accord runs smoothly and efficiently.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

Why fresh spark plugs are crucial for your Accord’s health.
All the tools and parts required for a successful DIY job.
A detailed, easy-to-follow process for replacing your spark plugs.
Tips for avoiding common pitfalls and troubleshooting issues.
How to make your maintenance more eco-friendly.

Let’s get that Accord purring like new!

Why Your 2017 Honda Accord Needs New Spark Plugs (And When!)

Spark plugs are small but mighty components in your engine’s ignition system. They create the spark that ignites the air-fuel mixture, kickstarting the combustion process that powers your car. Over time, these plugs wear out, leading to a host of performance issues.

Understanding the benefits of 2017 Honda Accord spark plug replacement goes beyond just fixing a problem; it’s about proactive care that keeps your ride reliable.

Signs It’s Time for a Spark Plug Refresh

Reduced Fuel Economy: Worn plugs lead to incomplete combustion, meaning your engine uses more fuel to produce the same power.
Engine Misfires or Rough Idling: If your engine sounds uneven or “skips” a beat, especially at idle, it’s a strong indicator.
Difficulty Starting: A weak spark can make your engine crank longer before firing up.
Sluggish Acceleration: Your Accord might feel less responsive, lacking its usual get-up-and-go.
Check Engine Light: A flashing or solid check engine light can be triggered by misfires, often related to spark plugs or ignition coils.

Recommended Replacement Intervals

For most modern Honda Accords, especially the 2017 model, manufacturers recommend spark plug replacement around the 100,000 to 105,000-mile mark. This is largely due to the use of long-life iridium or platinum spark plugs. However, driving conditions and fuel quality can impact their lifespan. Always refer to your owner’s manual for the most accurate service schedule for your specific 2017 Honda Accord.

Regular maintenance, as detailed in any good 2017 Honda Accord spark plug replacement care guide, is key to preventing premature wear and tear.

Gearing Up: Tools and Parts for Your 2017 Honda Accord Spark Plug Replacement

Before you dive in, gathering all your tools and the correct parts is crucial. This step prevents frustrating interruptions and ensures a smooth, safe process. Think of it like preparing for an off-road adventure – you wouldn’t hit the trails without the right gear!

Essential Tools You’ll Need

Having the right tools makes all the difference. Don’t skimp on quality here; a cheap spark plug socket can round off a plug or even break.

Socket Wrench/Ratchet: A 3/8-inch drive ratchet is standard.
Spark Plug Socket: This is a specialized socket, usually 14mm or 16mm (5/8 inch), with a rubber insert to protect and hold the plug. Confirm the size for your 2017 Accord – it’s often 14mm for the 2.4L I4 and 16mm for the 3.5L V6.
Extensions: You’ll likely need various lengths (e.g., 3-inch, 6-inch, 10-inch) to reach deep-seated plugs.
Torque Wrench: Absolutely essential! Overtightening can strip threads or damage plugs, while undertightening can cause them to loosen. Get one that measures in foot-pounds (ft-lbs) and inch-pounds (in-lbs).
Dielectric Grease: Applied to the inside of the coil pack boot to prevent moisture and corrosion, and ensure good electrical contact.
Anti-Seize Compound: Applied to the spark plug threads to prevent them from seizing in the cylinder head, especially important in aluminum heads.
Gap Gauge: While most modern plugs come pre-gapped, it’s always wise to double-check. Wire-type gauges are preferred over coin-type for iridium plugs.
Pliers: Needle-nose or regular pliers for disconnecting electrical connectors or hose clamps.
Flathead Screwdriver: For prying clips or connectors.
Gloves: Protect your hands from grease and heat.
Shop Rags/Paper Towels: For cleaning up spills.
Flashlight or Headlamp: To illuminate tight spaces.

Choosing the Right Spark Plugs for Your 2017 Honda Accord

This isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” situation. Your 2017 Honda Accord requires specific spark plugs to function optimally. Always check your owner’s manual or a reputable parts catalog.

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Plugs: For the 2017 Accord, Honda typically uses NGK or Denso iridium-tipped spark plugs. These are often the best choice for reliability and performance, as they are designed specifically for your engine.
Iridium vs. Platinum: Modern Accords almost exclusively use iridium plugs due to their extreme durability and fine-wire center electrode, which provides a stronger, more consistent spark.

When buying, ensure you get the correct number of plugs (four for the 2.4L I4 engine, six for the 3.5L V6 engine). Using the right parts is one of the top 2017 Honda Accord spark plug replacement tips for a successful outcome.

The Step-by-Step Guide: How to Perform a 2017 Honda Accord Spark Plug Replacement

Alright, let’s get down to business. This 2017 Honda Accord spark plug replacement guide will walk you through each step. Remember to take your time and follow safety precautions.

1. Safety First: Pre-Replacement Checks

Your safety is paramount. Always start with these steps.

Park on a Flat Surface: Ensure your car is stable.
Engage Parking Brake: Prevent any accidental movement.
Disconnect Battery: Disconnect the negative terminal of your car battery using a 10mm wrench. This prevents accidental sparks or electrical shocks. Tuck the cable away from the terminal.
Allow Engine to Cool: Working on a hot engine is dangerous and can damage spark plug threads. Give your engine at least an hour to cool down completely.

2. Accessing the Plugs (V6 vs. I4 Considerations)

The layout differs slightly between the 2.4L 4-cylinder and the 3.5L V6 engines.

For 2.4L I4 Engines:
The four spark plugs are typically located under the ignition coils on top of the engine, easily accessible once the plastic engine cover (if present) is removed. The coils are usually in a line.
For 3.5L V6 Engines:
This is a bit more involved. Three plugs are at the front of the engine, easily accessible. The other three are at the rear, closer to the firewall. You might need to remove air intake components or even the cowl/wiper assembly for better access to the rear bank. Patience is key here.

3. Removing the Old Plugs

Work on one spark plug at a time. This prevents mixing up ignition coils and reduces the risk of dirt falling into an open cylinder.

Remove Engine Cover: If your Accord has a decorative plastic engine cover, unclip or unscrew it and set it aside.
Disconnect Ignition Coil Electrical Connector: Gently press the tab on the connector and pull it off the ignition coil. Avoid yanking on the wires.
Remove Ignition Coil: Each spark plug is topped by an ignition coil (also called a coil pack). These are usually held down by a 10mm bolt. Unscrew the bolt, then pull the coil straight up and out. It might be snug, so a gentle wiggle can help. Inspect the coil for cracks or damage while it’s out.
Clean Around the Plug Well: Before removing the plug, use compressed air or a vacuum to clear any dirt or debris from around the spark plug well. This prevents contaminants from falling into the cylinder once the plug is out.
Remove the Old Spark Plug:
- Attach your spark plug socket to an extension and then to your ratchet.
- Carefully insert the socket into the plug well, ensuring it seats fully onto the spark plug.
- Turn the ratchet counter-clockwise to loosen the plug. If it feels extremely tight, apply steady, increasing pressure rather than sudden force to avoid stripping threads. If it resists heavily, stop and consult a professional.
- Once loose, carefully extract the old spark plug. The rubber insert in your spark plug socket should hold it.
- Inspect the old plug. Its condition can tell you a lot about your engine’s health (e.g., carbon fouling, oil fouling, overheating).

4. Installing the New Plugs

This is where precision and the right products make a difference, ensuring 2017 Honda Accord spark plug replacement best practices are followed.

Check Gap (If Necessary): While most iridium plugs come pre-gapped and shouldn’t be adjusted, it’s good practice to verify with a wire gap gauge. Consult your owner’s manual for the correct gap specification. Avoid prying on the delicate iridium tip if adjusting.
Apply Anti-Seize (Optional but Recommended): Apply a small amount of anti-seize compound to the threads of the *new* spark plug. Be careful not to get any on the electrode or insulator. This prevents the plug from seizing in the cylinder head over time.
Install New Spark Plug:
- Place the new spark plug into your spark plug socket.
- Hand-thread the plug first! Carefully lower the plug into the well and begin turning it clockwise by hand until it’s snug. This is the most critical step to prevent cross-threading, which can severely damage your engine’s cylinder head. If you feel resistance, stop, back it out, and try again.
- Once hand-tight, use your torque wrench set to the manufacturer’s specification (check your manual, typically around 13-18 ft-lbs for M14 plugs, 10-14 ft-lbs for M12 plugs). Tighten until the wrench clicks. Do NOT overtighten.
Apply Dielectric Grease: Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the inside of the ignition coil boot. This helps create a good seal and prevents moisture from causing misfires.
Reinstall Ignition Coil: Carefully slide the ignition coil back over the new spark plug. Push down firmly until it seats properly. Reinstall and tighten the 10mm bolt.
Reconnect Electrical Connector: Reattach the electrical connector to the ignition coil until you hear a click, ensuring it’s securely fastened.

5. The Final Check: Double-Checking Your Work

Once all plugs are replaced, do a quick review.

Verify Connections: Ensure all ignition coil electrical connectors are securely attached and all coil bolts are tightened.
Replace Engine Cover: Reinstall any engine covers or air intake components you removed.
Reconnect Battery: Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
Start the Engine: Start your Accord. It might take a moment longer to crank as the ECU relearns, but it should idle smoothly. Listen for any misfires or unusual noises. Take it for a short test drive to confirm proper operation.

Common Pitfalls and Troubleshooting During Your 2017 Honda Accord Spark Plug Replacement

Even with a detailed guide, things can sometimes go sideways. Knowing common problems with 2017 Honda Accord spark plug replacement can save you a lot of headache.

What to Watch Out For

Cross-threading: This is the most common and potentially damaging mistake. Always hand-thread spark plugs first. If you feel any resistance, stop immediately and restart the threading process.
Overtightening: Leads to stripped threads, damaged plugs, or even cracked cylinder heads. Always use a torque wrench to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Undertightening: Can cause plugs to loosen over time, leading to misfires, engine damage, or even plugs ejecting from the cylinder head. Again, use a torque wrench.
Dropping a Plug: If you drop a new spark plug, especially an iridium one, the delicate tip can be damaged, affecting its performance. It’s best to replace a dropped plug with a new one.
Broken Plug: If an old plug is seized, it might break during removal. This is a serious issue that often requires professional extraction. Stop immediately if you encounter extreme resistance.
Damaged Coil Pack: If an ignition coil is cracked or its boot is torn, it can cause misfires. Inspect them carefully during removal.

Troubleshooting After Replacement

Engine Misfire After Replacement:
- Double-check all coil pack electrical connectors are fully seated.
- Ensure coil packs are properly installed and bolted down.
- Verify you used the correct spark plugs and they were gapped correctly (if adjustable).
- It’s possible an old coil pack failed during the process, or a new plug is faulty.
Check Engine Light: If the check engine light comes on after the job, scan the codes. Common codes related to spark plugs are P0301-P0306 (misfire in cylinder 1-6). This will help you pinpoint the issue.

If you encounter significant issues or are unsure about any step, don’t hesitate to pull out of the driveway and call a trusted mechanic. Knowing your limits is part of being a smart DIYer.

Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Practices for Your Spark Plug Replacement

At FatBoysOffroad, we’re not just about performance; we’re about responsible vehicle ownership. Embracing sustainable 2017 Honda Accord spark plug replacement practices benefits both your wallet and the planet.

Responsible Disposal of Old Plugs

Don’t just toss those old spark plugs in the trash. They contain metal and ceramic components that can often be recycled. Check with your local recycling center or auto parts store; many accept used automotive parts for recycling. Proper disposal prevents harmful materials from entering landfills.

Choosing Long-Life Components

Opting for high-quality, long-life iridium spark plugs (like the OEM ones for your Accord) means less frequent replacement. This reduces waste over the long term and ensures your engine runs efficiently for longer, contributing to better fuel economy and lower emissions.

Minimize Waste During the Process

Use reusable shop rags instead of excessive paper towels.
Properly dispose of any used gloves or chemical containers according to local regulations.
Keep your engine well-maintained to extend the life of all components, not just the spark plugs.

Making small, conscious choices during maintenance contributes to an overall more eco-friendly 2017 Honda Accord spark plug replacement and a healthier environment.

Beyond the Plugs: Maximizing Your Accord’s Performance

Replacing your spark plugs is a fantastic step towards better engine health, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. For comprehensive performance and longevity, consider these related maintenance items and tips.

Related Maintenance for Peak Performance

Ignition Coils: While you have them out, inspect your ignition coils for cracks, signs of overheating, or damaged boots. If they show wear or you’ve experienced misfires, replacing them along with the plugs can be a smart move, especially for older vehicles or those with high mileage.
Air Filter: A clean air filter ensures your engine gets enough clean air for efficient combustion. Replace it regularly according to your owner’s manual.
Fuel Filter: A clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow, mimicking spark plug issues. Check your service schedule for replacement.
PCV Valve: A malfunctioning PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve can lead to oil consumption and engine performance issues. It’s an inexpensive part that’s often overlooked.

Driving Habits and Regular Check-ups

Your driving habits also play a significant role in your car’s performance and the lifespan of its components. Avoid aggressive acceleration and excessive idling. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks are fundamental to any good 2017 Honda Accord spark plug replacement care guide and overall vehicle health.

By staying on top of these items, you’re not just maintaining your Accord; you’re ensuring it delivers reliable, efficient performance for years to come, whether you’re commuting or hitting a light trail.

Frequently Asked Questions About 2017 Honda Accord Spark Plug Replacement

What is the recommended spark plug for a 2017 Honda Accord?

For optimal performance and longevity, your 2017 Honda Accord typically requires iridium-tipped spark plugs. Honda often uses NGK or Denso brands as OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts. Always verify the specific part number in your owner’s manual or a reputable parts catalog for your exact engine (2.4L I4 or 3.5L V6).

Do I need to gap new spark plugs for my 2017 Accord?

Most modern iridium spark plugs come pre-gapped from the factory and should not require adjustment. Attempting to gap iridium plugs can damage their delicate tips. However, it’s always a good practice to gently verify the gap with a wire-type gap gauge against your owner’s manual specification without forcing any adjustments.

How often should spark plugs be replaced in a 2017 Honda Accord?

Honda generally recommends replacing spark plugs in the 2017 Accord around the 100,000 to 105,000-mile mark. This interval can vary slightly based on driving conditions and maintenance history. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the precise maintenance schedule.

What happens if I don’t replace my spark plugs?

Ignoring worn spark plugs can lead to several problems, including reduced fuel economy, engine misfires, rough idling, difficulty starting, decreased acceleration, and eventually, damage to other engine components like catalytic converters due to unburnt fuel.

Is a 2017 Honda Accord spark plug replacement a DIY job?

Yes, for many DIYers, a 2017 Honda Accord spark plug replacement is a manageable task, especially for the 4-cylinder model. The V6 engine’s rear bank of plugs can be more challenging due to limited access. With the right tools, patience, and this guide, it’s a rewarding project. However, if you’re uncomfortable or encounter significant resistance, it’s always best to consult a professional mechanic.

Conclusion

There you have it – a complete guide to performing a 2017 Honda Accord spark plug replacement. Taking on this maintenance task yourself not only saves you money but also gives you a deeper understanding and appreciation for your vehicle. You’ve learned why it’s important, what you need, how to do it safely, and what to watch out for.

By proactively maintaining your Accord’s spark plugs, you’re ensuring better fuel efficiency, smoother engine performance, and a more reliable ride for all your daily commutes or weekend adventures. Remember, the key to successful DIY work is preparation, patience, and always prioritizing safety.

Keep those engines running strong, and your journeys will be smoother and more enjoyable. Stay safe and happy wrenching from the team at FatBoysOffroad!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.