2012 Chevrolet Malibu Spark Plug Replacement
Complete guide to 2012 Chevrolet Malibu spark plug replacement. Cost estimates, difficulty level, time required, and environmental impact.
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💰 Cost Breakdown
💡 Tip: Costs vary by location and repair shop. Authorized service centers typically charge more than independent repair shops.
🔧 Repair Overview
Spark Plug Replacement is one of the most common repairs for 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. This repair involves replacing the damaged engine component with a new or refurbished part. The process typically takes 1-2 hours and requires moderate skill level.
What You'll Need
- Replacement engine part (OEM or aftermarket)
- Precision screwdriver set (Phillips #000 or pentalobe)
- Opening tools (plastic spudger, suction cup)
- Adhesive strips or glue
- Clean workspace with good lighting
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1:
Use the 1/2" socket to loosen and remove the four bolts and washers on the spark plug cover labeled 2.4L Twin Cam.
These four bolts should be torqued to 18 ft-lbs when putting the spark plug cover back on.
Step 2:
With a flathead screwdriver remove the ignition coil electrical connector on the right side of spark plug cover.
Be careful while disconnecting the ignition coil electrical connector as it may break.
Step 3:
Remove the spark plug cover.
Step 4:
When working with compressed air, wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
Use compressed air to clear any debris from the area around the spark plugs.
Any particles that fall into the cylinder could cause serious engine damage.
Use a 5/8" spark plug socket with an extension to loosen and remove the spark plugs.
Step 5:
Before installing the new spark plugs check that the spark plugs' gap is between 0.048 and 0.052 inches.
If it needs to be widened, use a gap setter to increase the size of the gap until it reaches the desired width.
Step 6:
Wedge the new spark plugs into a 5/8'' spark plug socket.
Place the spark plug into the cylinder using the socket and hand tighten the spark plugs as much as possible.
Tighten the spark plugs to 13 ft-lbs with a torque wrench.
Do not over tighten spark plugs. This could strip out the threaded holes in the head.
📖 Repair guide provided by iFixit - The free repair manual. Licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 3.0.
iFixit Difficulty: Moderate | Time: NaNh NaNm
DIY vs Professional Repair
✋ DIY Repair
- ✅ Lower cost (parts only: $60-$120)
- ✅ Learn new skills
- ❌ Risk of further damage
- ❌ No warranty
- ❌ Requires tools and time
🔧 Professional Repair
- ✅ Expert installation
- ✅ Warranty included
- ✅ Faster turnaround
- ❌ Higher cost ($100-$200)
- ❌ Need to find reputable shop
Environmental Impact
By choosing to repair your 2012 Chevrolet Malibu instead of replacing it, you're preventing approximately 6098 kg of CO₂ emissions. Manufacturing a new 2012 Chevrolet Malibu generates 6100 kg of CO₂, while this repair only produces about 2 kg of CO₂. That's a 100% reduction in carbon emissions!
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