How to Change the Spark Plugs on a 2002 Oldsmobile Alero
by Tim Petruccio
The Oldsmobile Alero was produced from the 1997 to 2004 model years. The 2002 Oldsmobile Alero base model was equipped with a 2.2-liter, in-line, four-cylinder engine capable of producing 140 horsepower. A 3.4-liter V6 was optional as an upgrade in the 2002 Alero. The spark plugs on the base 2002 Alero are located beneath the ignition coil. The coil is mounted onto the top of the engine, beneath a cover. Replace the spark plugs with original equipment (OEM) plugs. General Motors used Bosch Platinum +2 spark plugs as the OEM plugs from the factory.
Step 1
Open the hood of the Alero, and set the hood prop. Remove the cover from the top of the engine, using a ratchet and socket to remove the four mounting bolts. Pull the cover straight upward then remove it from your work area. The coil is mounted under the cover, and will come off with it.
Step 2
Remove the old spark plug farthest to the passenger side of the engine, using a 3/8-inch drive ratchet, a 6-inch extension, and a spark plug socket. Turn the plug counterclockwise to remove it.
Step 3
Check the gap on the new spark plug with a feeler gauge or spark plug gap tool. Adjust the gap to 0.045 inches, if necessary.
Step 4
Remove extension and spark plug socket from the ratchet. Install the new spark plug into the spark plug socket. Thread the new spark plug in by hand, until it is snug. Tighten the spark plug to 180 inch-pounds of torque with a 3/8-inch-drive torque wrench.
Step 5
Repeat Steps 2 through 4 from left to right on the engine, until you have replaced all of the spark plugs.
Step 6
Install the ignition coil and cover back onto the top of the engine. Install it straight downward, so the coil plugs mate with their respective spark plug holes. Push down until you feel it "snap" into place. Tighten the mounting bolts to 180 inch-pounds of torque.
References
Things You'll Need
- 3/8-inch drive ratchet
- 3/8-inch drive, 6-inch extension
- 3/8-inch drive spark plug socket
- 4 new spark plugs
- 3/8-inch drive torque wrench
Writer Bio
Tim Petruccio is a professional writer and automotive mechanic. His writing combines more than 20 years of mechanical experience in automotive service, service management, automotive education and business ownership. He assisted in the automotive beta, which launched March 2011.
