2009–2013 Toyota Corolla
By Tom Becker ✓ Certified Mechanic · Published Sep 21, 2026 · Updated Oct 22, 2026
Save $212 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $260
Quick answer: Spark Plug Replacement on a 2009–2013 Toyota Corolla is rated Advanced and takes about 60-90 minutes. You'll need 5 tools for this job, and parts cost about $48. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
| Part Name | Part Number | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iridium spark plugs for Toyota Corolla (verify engine and heat range) | — | $48.00 | |
| Spark plug boot grease (small tube, optional) Optional | — | $8.00 |
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
Follow these steps carefully
The OE plug is Denso SC20HR11, an iridium plug gapped at 1.1mm (0.043 in) — buy 4. It uses an M12 thread with a 14mm hex and arrives pre-gapped; do not re-gap iridium tips.
Ask me how I know: It uses an M12 thread with a 14mm hex and arrives pre-gapped; do not re-gap iridium tips.
Let the 1.8L cool fully and disconnect the negative battery cable. Lift off the plastic engine cover to expose the four coil packs standing on the plugs. On the Corolla nothing else blocks the coils — this is a straightforward top-of-engine job.
Unplug each coil connector, remove the hold-down bolt, and pull the coil straight up. Blow or brush every plug well clean before loosening a plug — the 2ZR-FE's deep wells collect grit that must not fall in. Keep each coil matched to its cylinder.
Remove the old plugs with a 14mm spark-plug socket and compare reach (26.5mm) and wear. Start each new Denso by hand so the M12 threads engage cleanly, then torque to 17 N·m per Denso's published data for this plug. No anti-seize on the coated threads. Verify the 0.043 in gap with a wire gauge rather than adjusting it.
Reinstall the coils, bolts, and connectors, refit the cover and battery cable. Start the Corolla and scan for returning misfires. The 2ZR-FE should idle nearly silently and accelerate smoothly; any roughness points to a coil connector that didn't seat, not the new Densos.
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
2009–2013
2009–2013
2009–2013
2009–2013
2009–2013
2009–2013
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