Volvo Spark Plug & Ignition Coil Replacement | DIY

If your Volvo check engine light is on and codes P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304, and P0305 are present, there is a good chance that you have a bad spark plug or ignition coil. Learn how to fix the problem by replacing your Volvo’s spark plug/ignition coil.

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This guide provides instructions on replacing the spark plugs on a Volvo. While the spark plug and ignition coil part numbers vary between models, the instructions are practically the same for all Volvo models, including XC70, V70, S60, S40, V40, V50, XC60, XC90, S60, S70, S80, C30, and even 240.

Spark plugs are worn components and should be replaced at the recommended interval (see owner’s manual). Don’t wait for the check engine to come on.

Symptoms

• Volvo shakes, and the check engine light flashes.
• Misfire code present when reading Volvo fault codes
• Reduced fuel economy
• Can’t pass State emission test
• Rough idle
• Unexplained engine vibration

What you will need

• Ignition Coils for Volvo
  • Some Volvo owners prefer to replace all the coils when changing the spark plugs. Please remember that coils do not need to be replaced unless they fail.

• Mechanic Toolset Metric
  • 3/8 Ratchet Wrench
  • 3/8″ Extension
• 5/8 Spark Plug Socket
• High-Temperature Anti-seize
• Torx Socket
• Torque Wrench

Procedure

1. Park your Volvo in a safe workplace and allow the engine to cool down for about thirty minutes. Make sure to engage the parking brakes and remove the key.
2. Next, pull the hood release under the dashboard and open the hood.
3. If your Volvo engine has an engine cover, pull it off by pulling up the plastic cover.
   • Turbo models: If necessary, remove the crossbar over the engine and the turbo charge air pipe (boost pipe) with a T-25, 10mm, or 8mm bolt.
4. Remove all T-30 Torx bolts on top of the engine.
5. Pull out the cover over the spark plugs.
6. Next, remove the cover near the timing chain.
7. Remove the 10mm bolts from each ignition coil.
8. Disconnect the wires to the ignition coil by pressing then pulling on the connector.
9. Lift the coil and remove it from the spark plug.
10. Remove the spark plugs using your spark plug removal tool. Turn the ratchet counterclockwise to remove the spark plug.
11. Apply high-temperature anti-seize to the threads of the spark plugs. Install the new spark plugs and torque to 30Nm. Start threading the new spark plugs by hand to not cross-thread them as you install them.
12. Install the ignition coils. Use dielectric grease inside the boot before seating them back onto the spark plugs. Make sure that the ignition coil connectors are not switched around. For example, your connector going to cylinder two is now moved to cylinder 3. You will end up with multiple cylinder misfires, P0300, P0302, and P0303, even if the ignition coils are not switched but the connectors are. The key is not to switch around the ignition coil connectors.

If your Volvo check engine light is on, clear it with an OBD2 scanner. The YOUCANIC Full System Scanner can read and clear fault codes through every control module of a Volvo vehicle.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval

The typical spark plug change interval for most Volvo vehicles is 60,000 miles. This range can vary based on the spark plug type. See the owner’s manual.

Frequently Asked Questions

We hope you find the Volvo Spark Plug & Ignition Coil Replacement | DIY guide helpful. Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your Volvo.