Ignition System -- On-Vehicle Inspection |
1. PERFORM SPARK TEST |
Check for DTCs (COROLLA_ZRE142 RM000000PDK0ZAX.html).
- NOTICE:
- If any DTC is present, perform troubleshooting in accordance with the procedure for that DTC.
Remove the ignition coils and spark plug (COROLLA_ZRE142 RM00000304Q017X.html).
Disconnect the 4 fuel injector connectors.
![]() |
Install the spark plug into the ignition coil, and then connect the ignition coil connector.
Ground the spark plug.
![]() |
Check that spark occurs while the engine is being cranked.
- NOTICE:
- Be sure to ground the spark plugs when checking them.
- Do not crank the engine for more than 2 seconds.
Cranking will stop if the engine switch is pushed again for models with cranking holding function. - If a spark plug has been struck or dropped, replace it.
- If an ignition coil assembly has been struck or dropped, replace it.
- HINT:
- If spark does not occur for any cylinder, perform the following Inspect Ignition Coil and Spark Test procedure.
Connect the 4 fuel injector connectors.
Install the spark plugs and ignition coil assemblies (COROLLA_ZRE142 RM00000304O017X.html).
Check for DTCs (COROLLA_ZRE142 RM000000PDK0ZAX.html).
Clear the DTCs (COROLLA_ZRE142 RM000000PDK0ZAX.html).
2. INSPECT IGNITION COIL AND SPARK TEST |
Check that the ignition coil connector is securely connected.
- Result:
Result Action NG Connect securely OK Go to next step
Perform a spark test on each ignition coil.
Replace the ignition coil with a known good one.
Perform the spark test again.
- Result:
Result Action OK Replace ignition coil NG Go to next step
Perform a spark test.
Replace the spark plug with a known good one.
Perform the spark test again.
- Result:
Result Action OK Replace the spark plug NG Inspect the ignition system (COROLLA_ZRE142 RM000000XH40QYX.html).
3. INSPECT SPARK PLUG |
Check the electrode.
Using a megohmmeter, measure the resistance.
- Standard Resistance:
- 10 MΩ or more
- HINT:
- If a megohmmeter is not available, perform the following simple inspection instead.
![]() |
Alternative inspection method:
Quickly accelerate the engine to 4000 rpm 5 times.
Remove each spark plug.
Visually check the spark plug.
If the electrode is dry, the spark plug is functioning properly. If the electrode is damp, proceed to the next step.
![]() |
Check the spark plug for any damage to its threads and insulator.
If there is any damage, replace the spark plug.Recommended Spark Plug Manufacturer Spark Plug Type DENSO SC20HR11
Check the spark plug electrode gap.
- Maximum Electrode Gap for Used Spark Plug:
Electrode Gap 1.3 mm (0.0512 in.)
- Electrode Gap for New Spark Plug:
Electrode Gap 1.0 to 1.1 mm (0.0394 to 0.0433 in.)
![]() |
Clean the spark plugs.
If the electrode has traces of wet carbon, clean the electrode with a spark plug cleaner and then dry it.- Standard air pressure:
- 588 kPa (6 kgf/cm2, 85 psi)
- Standard duration:
- 20 seconds or less.
- HINT:
- Only use the spark plug cleaner when the electrode is free of oil. If the electrode has traces of oil, use gasoline to clean off the oil before using the spark plug cleaner.
![]() |