Spark Plug Inspection

2006 Honda Pilot EX, 3.5 YF2, J35Z1SECTION Spark Plug Inspection
  1. Inspect the electrodes and ceramic insulator.
    • Burned or worn electrodes may be caused by:
      • Advanced ignition timing
      • Loose spark plug
      • Plug heat range too hot
      • Insufficient cooling
    • Fouled plugs may be caused by:
      • Retarded ignition timing
      • Oil in combustion chamber
      • Incorrect spark plug gap
      • Plug heat range too cold
      • Excessive idling/low speed running
      • Clogged air cleaner element
      • Deteriorated ignition coils
        Fig 1: Inspecting Spark Plug Electrodes And Ceramic Insulator
        G04244453Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  2. If the spark plug electrode is dirty or contaminated, clean the electrode with a plug cleaner.
    NOTE:
    • Do not use a wire brush or scrape the iridium electrode since this will damage the electrode.
    • Use a chemical cleaner such as carb spray to clean contamination on the electrode.
    • When using a sand blaster spark plug cleaner, do not clean for more than 20 seconds to avoid damaging the electrode.
  3. Do not adjust the gap (A) of iridium tip plugs; replace the spark plug if the gap is out of specification.

    Electrode Gap 

    Standard (New): 1.0-1.1 mm (0.039-0.043 in.) 

    Fig 2: Checking Spark Plug Electrode Gap
    G04244454Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  4. Replace the plug at the specified interval or if the center electrode is rounded (A). Use only the listed spark plugs.

    Spark Plugs 

    NGK: IZFR5K11 

    Fig 3: Checking Spark Plug Center Electrode
    G04244455Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  5. Apply a small amount of anti-seize compound to the plug threads, and screw the plugs into the cylinder head, finger-tight. Then torque them to 18 N.m (1.8 kgf.m, 13 lbf.ft).
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.