Changing Sparkplugs

[QXforever]

This is the first time I changed the plugs on my QX4, what the hell. There is hardly any room to get to the plugs. It took me longer just to take all the stuff off so I could get to the plugs. The passenger side was much easier then the drivers. It does start easier and run better now. Next up both rear O2 sensors and the passenger side cam position sensor. I love it. what
Modified by QXforever at 9:32 AM 9/12/2008

[QXforever]

Got the O2 sensors done, those clips suck. An extended pair of needle nose pliers works great or a really long flat head. I had to use both since I did both rear sensors.

[SteveTheTech]

Did you take the plenum off or just the TB?

Where you doing the upstream or downstream sensors?

IMO A panel separating tool work the best for the clips on B1 in the back of the block.

[QXforever]

Didn't take either off, I took the throttle position sensor off (at least that is what I think it was). It is the sensor that goes into the TB. That gave me enough room to get to the plug.

That tool would have been so useful. I did the sensors after the cats. Was getting p0158 and p0159, new sensors and codes cleared. I guess I should get the ecm reflashed.

[SteveTheTech]

That has the 3.5 right? And cable operated throttle?I am not sure if they switched mid year or not, and my Adobe is not opening currently.

[vliou]

yeah I know the feeling...I have the 3.5L

I changed the plugs with my mechanic last night (actually i was watching with a mag light...yes, we did it in the dark with a lamp he took out from his house). It was amazing seeing how he had to take freakin everything apart. Actually, it was retarded.

Car runs better now hahahaha...

[Buzzman]

I changed the plugs with my mechanic last night (actually i was watching with a mag light...yes, we did it in the dark with a lamp he took out from his house). It was amazing seeing how he had to take freakin everything apart. Actually, it was retarded....

That's why when it came time to do mine, I paid someone else to do it.One look convinced me not to try.Man, I miss the good old days when I could stand in the engine bay of my old Chevy and fix anything, with ease. Those days are gone...boo hoo.
Modified by Buzzman at 9:41 PM 9/16/2008

[Densetsu]

The plugs on my '03 were fairly easy to change, at least in comparison to other vehicles I've done in the past. Done in an hour, where I've spend two or three with my last car -- and cursed a lot more too.

Isn't the '01 the same as the '03? Or does it need the special tool like the previous gen of Pathys did?

I replaced them early at the 75k mile mark, so it was still running decent beforehand... but there was a noticeable improvement in gas mileage. Totally worth it.

[AJRK]

I'm at 107,000KM (66,000 Miles) and have considered replacing the plugs but everyone has told me to wait... What mileage did the rest of you 3.5L guys change yours at?

[vliou]

It's amazing why people push spark plugs. Yes, they COULD last 160,000km, but WHY?! It's the leading cause of POOR fuel mileage...

I replaced mine at 96,000km - mainly because I drive it hard. Having pulled it out, none were fouled, but some were getting thin...

CHANGE THE PLUGS!!

[SteveTheTech]

They have been in there for seven years. The plugs should last till ~105 depending on driving conditions and fuel used. Pull two or so out and see what they look like.

[QXforever]

Mine is at 112K miles.

They are pretty easy to change, just a lot of little things need to be moved to be able to access the plugs and get the clearance to pull the tube out and get a ratchet in.