How to Change the Plugs on a 1998 Toyota Camry

Spark plugs are an important part of the engine's ignition system, and the electrodes used to produce the spark will erode with use. The 1998 Toyota Camry features two powerplant options: the four-cylinder or six-cylinder engine. Weak spark from worn plugs in these engines will cause the Camry to operate inefficiently, and gas mileage will suffer. Spark plugs should be inspected at intervals of 30,000 miles and replaced when wear is observed.

• 1

  Remove the negative battery terminal from the battery with the aid of a 10mm wrench.

• 2

  Remove the spark plug wires located at the top of the engine from each of the spark plugs. Rotate plug wires a half turn left and right if they are difficult to remove. Use of needle-nose pliers may be required if the plug wires have not been removed for an extended period of time.

• 3

  Loosen the spark plugs using a spark plug socket, ratchet and extension.

• 4

  Remove the new spark plugs and set the gap to .035 in using the spark plug gap tool.

• 5

  Insert the new plug into the spark plug wrench and hand tighten in the engine using just the extension.

• 6

  Tighten the spark plugs to 22 ft-lbs using the torque wrench, spark plug socket and ratchet.

• 7

  Replace each plug wire to the corresponding spark plug. Press down on each plug wire until it snaps into place on the spark plug.

• 8

  Reattach the negative battery terminal cable to the battery and tighten using the 10mm wrench.