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2014–2020 Lexus IS

2014-2020 Lexus IS — Spark Plug Replacement

By Tom Becker ✓ Certified Mechanic · Published Sep 21, 2026 · Updated Oct 22, 2026

🔧🔧 Moderate 2-3 hours $320 DIY 2 views

Save $80 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $400

Quick answer: Spark Plug Replacement on a 2014–2020 Lexus IS is rated Moderate and takes about 2-3 hours. You'll need 9 tools for this job, and parts cost about $320. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.

Quick Video Tutorial

Parts You Need

Total Cost
$320.00
Part Name Part Number Price Buy
Iridium Spark Plugs — $120.00
Ignition Coil Set TRQ ICA71771 $200.00

About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.

💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully

1

Cool the engine

Work only on a cold engine. Hot aluminum heads can pull threads when plugs are removed. Disconnect the negative battery terminal if required by your procedure.

🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker

I only do plugs on a stone-cold engine — hot aluminum heads can pull the threads right out with the plug, and a thread repair is a whole different afternoon.

2

Access the ignition coils

Remove any engine cover or intake tube blocking the coils. Label coil connectors or photograph their positions before unplugging.

3

Remove one coil at a time

Unplug the coil connector, remove the coil hold-down bolt, and pull the coil straight up. Work one cylinder at a time to avoid mixing parts.

4

Remove the old spark plug

Blow loose dirt from the well. Use a spark-plug socket with a rubber insert and extension to remove the plug. Inspect the tip for oil, coolant, or abnormal wear.

5

Gap and hand-thread the new plug

Confirm the new plug part number and set the gap to the manufacturer specification if required (many iridium plugs are pre-gapped). Start the plug by hand to avoid cross-threading.

6

Torque to specification

Torque the plug to the spec in the service information (typically a modest ft-lb or degree turn after seating). Do not overtighten \u2014 stripped head threads are expensive.

🔧 Mechanic's note — Ray Delgado

I use a torque wrench on these — 'snug' is how threads get stripped, and a stripped plug hole in an aluminum head turns a tune-up into a machine-shop bill.

7

Reinstall the coil

Press the coil fully onto the plug, reinstall the hold-down bolt to snug\/spec, and reconnect the electrical connector until it clicks.

8

Reassemble and test

Refit covers\/intake components, reconnect the battery if removed, and start the engine. Listen for misfires and confirm a smooth idle. Clear any residual codes if a light remains.

All Done!

Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • • Not properly gapping the new spark plugs before installation
  • • Forgetting to apply dielectric grease to the ignition coil boots
  • • Over-tightening the spark plugs, leading to potential engine damage