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TT Spark plugs + coils

Why do it

Tools you'll need

• Socket set with 10mm and a 5/8" spark plug socket
• Hex (Allen) bits
• Flathead screwdriver
• Spark plug gap tool or feeler gauge
• Torque wrench
• 3/8" ratchet and extension
• 5/8" spark plug socket
• Spark plug gap tool
• Torque wrench
• Coil puller (optional)

Parts to buy

• NGK PFR6Q spark plug (factory plug) Sold each. You need 4.Fits 2000–2006 · 180 hp, 225 hp
• ECS ignition service kit: 4 red coils + NGK BKR7EIX plugs (TT Mk2 2.0T) Everything for the job in one kit. The same kit as the Mk2 video.Fits 2008–2015 · 2.0T, TTS
• R8 "Red Top" coil conversion kit (1.8T) 4 Bosch R8 coils plus the adapter plates. The same upgrade as our video.Fits 2000–2006 · 180 hp, 225 hp

Double-check fitment before buying.

Steps

1. Gap the new plugs

   • Slide a feeler gauge or gap tool between the plug's tip and the bent electrode. The right size should slide in with a little drag.
   • Adjust by gently bending only the outer electrode.
   ▶ Watch this step (2:06–2:37)

2. Remove the engine cover

   • Turn the two cover fasteners a quarter turn and lift the cover off.
   ▶ Watch this step (GarageTech, on a 1.8T) (0:33–1:04)

3. Move the charge pipe and N249 valve

   • The 225 has extra pipework over the coils. Remove the charge pipe, then the single bolt holding the N249 valve and its ground wire, and slide it aside.
   • Old vacuum hoses crack easily. Move them gently, and replace any that are hard or split.
   ▶ Watch this step (2:37–3:59)

4. Remove the coil bracket

   • Unplug the main connector by pinching its clip. Remove the 10mm bolt holding the small vacuum reservoir and lift it out of the way.
   • Remove the Allen bolts holding the metal bracket over the coils (older cars also have a bolt on each coil) and lift the bracket off.
   ▶ Watch this step (GarageTech) (1:04–4:27)

5. Unplug and pull the coils

   • Pull each connector toward you, press the clip at the back, then push the connector off. Don't pry with a screwdriver; the plastic snaps easily.
   • Pull each coil straight up. They're tight, so use both hands.
   ▶ Watch this step (GarageTech) (4:27–7:40)

6. Swap the plugs one at a time

   • Use a 5/8" spark plug socket to remove one plug, then thread in a new one by hand right away so nothing can fall into the engine.
   • Do all four, then torque them to the spec in your service manual. Plugs need very little torque.

   Tip: If a plug won't turn easily by hand, back it out and start again. A cross-threaded plug can ruin the cylinder head.

   ▶ Watch this step (4:15–5:18)

7. Fit the R8 coils

   • Bolt the adapter plates from the kit in place, then push each new coil down until it seats and plug it in.
   ▶ Watch this step (5:33–5:55)

8. Refit the N249 and charge pipe

   • Slide the N249 back, refit its bolt and ground wire, check every vacuum hose, then refit the charge pipe and its hoses.
   ▶ Watch this step (5:48–6:07)

9. Reassemble and test

   • Refit the engine cover.
   • Start the car and let it warm up, then test drive. If you have a boost gauge, check boost and vacuum read normally after moving the hoses.
   ▶ Watch this step (7:14–7:46)

10. Remove the engine cover

    • Pop the cover up off its four rubber grommets, one corner at a time.
    ▶ Watch this step (ECS Tuning) (1:20–1:35)

11. Unplug the coils

    • Press each connector's tab and slide it back. Loosen all four before pulling the harness off as a set.
    ▶ Watch this step (1:35–1:52)

12. Pull the coils

    • Pull each coil straight up with even pressure on the front and back. A coil puller makes this easier.
    ▶ Watch this step (1:52–2:25)

13. Remove the old plugs

    • Use a 5/8" spark plug socket on an extension to remove each plug.
    ▶ Watch this step (2:25–2:57)

14. Check the gap

    • Check each new plug is gapped to 0.031". Iridium tips are brittle, so only bend the outer strap.
    ▶ Watch this step (2:57–3:45)

15. Install the new plugs

    • Put a thin coat of dielectric grease on the top of each plug, thread them in by hand, then torque to 25 Nm (just enough to crush the washer).
    ▶ Watch this step (3:45–4:36)

16. Fit the new coils

    • Drop the coils in, clip the connectors on, then press each coil fully down. Refit the engine cover and test drive.
    ▶ Watch this step (4:36–5:20)

How to know it worked

• Smooth idle with no shaking.
• No flashing check-engine light.
• Pulls smoothly all the way to redline.
• Smooth idle and no check-engine light.

Follow your part's instructions and your service manual's torque specs.