GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Chevrolet 🢒 2001 🢒 Prizm 🢒 Engine 🢒 Engine Controls - 1.8L 🢒 Spark Plug Replacement

Removal Procedure

    Object Number: 621681 Size: SH
  1. Remove the 2 clips and the 2 nuts that secure the engine cover to the cylinder head cover.
  2. Remove the engine cover (1) from the cylinder head cover.

    3. Object Number: 621679 Size: SH
  3. Disconnect the electrical connector from each ignition coil.
  4. Remove the bolt (4) securing each ignition coil from the cylinder head cover.
  5. Remove each ignition coil (3) from the cylinder head cover.

    6. Notice: This engine is equipped with an aluminum cylinder head. Allow the engine to cool before removing spark plugs. Removing the spark plugs from an engine at operating temperature may damage the spark plug threads in the cylinder head. Also be sure to clean any dirt or debris from around spark plug holes prior to removing spark plugs.


    Object Number: 244188 Size: SH
  6. Remove the spark plugs from the cylinder head.
  7. Inspect the spark plugs for electrode wear, carbon deposits and insulator damage. Refer to Spark Plug Inspection .

Installation Procedure

    Object Number: 244188 Size: SH

    Important: Use one of the following types of iridium tipped spark plugs.

       • Denso Type SK16R11
       • NGK Type IFR5A11

  1. Replace the spark plugs every 144,000 km (90,000 mi).

    2. Important: 

       • Do not touch the tip of the spark plug.
       • Do not damage the iridium surface of the electrode when gapping the plug.
       • Do not adjust the gap on used spark plugs. Replace the spark plug if the gap is greater than specification.

  2. Set the spark plug gap. Bend only the side electrode.

    3. New Spark Plug Gap
    1.0-1.1 mm (0.040-0.043 in)

    Maximum Used Spark Plug Gap
    1.2 mm (0.047 in)

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  3. Install the spark plugs to the cylinder head.

    4. Tighten
    Tighten the spark plugs to 18 N·m (13 lb ft).


    Object Number: 621679 Size: SH
  4. Install each ignition coil (3) to the cylinder head cover.
  5. Secure the ignition coils using the bolts (4).

    6. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 9 N·m (80 lb in).

  6. Connect each ignition coil electrical connector.

    7. Object Number: 621681 Size: SH
  7. Install the engine cover (1) to the cylinder head cover. Secure the engine cover with the 2 clips and the 2 nuts.

    8. Tighten
    Tighten the nuts to 9 N·m (80 lb in).