
Steps for replacing spark plugs in Arrizo 5: Open the hood, lift the plastic cover of the engine, remove the high-voltage distributor wires, and mark each cylinder's position to avoid confusion. Use a spark plug socket to remove the spark plugs one by one. While removing, check for any leaves, dust, or debris externally and ensure thorough cleaning. Place the new spark plug into the spark plug hole, hand-tighten it a few turns, then use the socket to tighten further. Reinstall the removed high-voltage distributor wires according to the firing order, then secure the cover. Spark plug replacement interval: Under normal maintenance conditions, replace every 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers. However, this may vary depending on the brand and engine type, so it's recommended to follow the user manual. Refer to the following standards for maintenance replacement: Platinum spark plugs should be replaced at 40,000 km, standard nickel alloy spark plugs at 20,000 km, and iridium spark plugs between 60,000-80,000 km.

I've done this myself three times already. Changing the spark plugs on the Chery Arrizo 5's 1.5L engine is actually quite straightforward. You'll need to prepare a 16mm spark plug socket, a torque wrench (highly recommended, but a regular socket with an extension bar will work if you don't have one), and new spark plugs (NGK DCPR7EIX or OEM equivalent). Remember to work on a cold engine! First step - safest to remove the key and disconnect the negative battery terminal. Then locate the four corner clips of the engine cover - pull up firmly to remove it and you'll see the ignition coils. Unplug the coil connectors, use a 10mm socket to remove the mounting screws, then pull the coils straight up vertically without wobbling them sideways. The spark plugs are deep in the holes below - make sure the socket is fully inserted before slowly turning counterclockwise to loosen them. When removing the old plugs, be careful not to drop any debris into the holes. Before installing new plugs, check that the ceramic insulator isn't cracked and measure the electrode gap with a steel ruler (should be around 0.8mm). Hand-tighten the new spark plugs first, then use the torque wrench to tighten to 25 N·m (if you don't have a torque wrench, gently tighten and then turn an additional 1/4 turn). Finally, reinstall the ignition coils in reverse order. The whole process takes about half an hour, but don't rush - details make all the difference!

Honestly, the biggest risk of changing spark plugs yourself is breaking or stripping the threads. I've seen people remove them without disconnecting the battery, resulting in burnt ignition coils and unnecessary expenses. The Arrizo 5's ignition coils are quite delicate—remember to unplug them before working. Another common mistake: the check engine light comes on after replacement! Don't panic—it's usually caused by loose coil connectors or bent socket pins. When unplugging, press the clip firmly and pull straight out—don't yank the wires. Tools matter too. The spark plug wells are unusually deep—regular sockets won't reach. You'll need a dedicated magnetic or rubber-lined spark plug socket (around 20 yuan on Taobao), otherwise the plug might drop into the engine bay during removal. Final tip: don't replace the cover immediately after installation. Start the engine to check for misfiring sounds before reassembling. Saving a hundred yuan in labor costs isn't worth damaging your car.

If you want to save money, doing it yourself is indeed cost-effective. Last time I changed four spark plugs for just 120 yuan (bought Denso brand parts on Taobao), while a repair shop would charge at least 200 for labor. However, never go for cheap spark plugs! Counterfeit ones might last only three months if you're lucky. When removing the original spark plugs, pay attention to the carbon buildup: white electrodes indicate a lean fuel mixture, while black and oily ones mean oil burning—this is a great opportunity to assess engine health. Don't throw away the old plugs; soak them in white vinegar for half an hour, scrub them clean with a toothbrush, dry them, and keep them as emergency spares—super handy. Tightening new spark plugs requires practice: too loose and you'll get air leaks or misfires, too tight and you won't be able to remove them next time. Beginners should first remove an old spark plug to get a feel for the loosening torque, then tighten the new one to the same resistance. The crucial step is inserting the ignition coil: you'll know it's properly seated when you hear a 'click.' Save money where it counts—don't risk damaging important parts over a few bucks.

For tool enthusiasts, this is quite an interesting task! Essential tools include: a 10mm socket for removing coil screws, an ignition coil puller (use a tire pry bar with a cloth padding if unavailable), a 16mm spark plug socket with a universal joint (a straight one won’t reach), needle-nose pliers (for removing connector clips), and a flashlight (to illuminate the deep holes). Advanced players should also have a cylinder pressure gauge to measure the compression ratio while at it—just insert the gauge into the rubber boot after removing the spark plug. Key operational details: first, blow out any dust around the spark plug hole to prevent debris from falling into the cylinder. The old spark plug’s gasket will be flattened and deformed upon removal, so it must be replaced. Before installing the new plug, apply some insulating silicone grease to the ceramic part to prevent arcing, and coat the metal threads with copper-based anti-seize compound (avoid regular grease). Finally, a critical step: check the rubber seal on the coil for cracks or aging—replace it if necessary, otherwise, engine oil may seep into the engine bay. With all the right tools, this job is incredibly satisfying!


