How To Change Spark Plugs in a 2007 Jeep Compass

by Justin Cupler

In 2007, Jeep released a new vehicle, known as the Compass. The 2007 Compass came standard with a 2.4-liter engine that produced 172 horsepower and had an optional 2.0-liter engine that cranked out 158 horsepower. Both engines required changing of their spark plugs every 30,000 miles. Failure to follow this maintenance schedule can lead to poor performance, low fuel economy or even internal engine damage. The 2007 Jeep compass has a plastic engine cover that covers the ignition coils and spark plugs, remove this cover to replace the spark plugs.

Step 1

Check the gap between the ground and center electrodes on all four new spark plugs, using a spark plug gap tool. The specified gap for the 2.0-liter and 2.4-liter engine is 0.038 to 0.043 inches. If the gap is wider and narrower than the specified amount, adjust the gap using the spark plug gap tool. Do not attempt to adjust the gap on platinum or double platinum spark plugs.

Step 2

Grab the front of the plastic engine cover, on both corners, and pull it upward to disengage the clips holding it in place. Grab both corners of the rear part of the engine cover and pull it up until the clips disengage. Remove the cover from the engine and set it in a secure location.

Step 3

Unplug the wiring harness from the top of the ignition coil pack, by pressing the locking button and pulling the harness from the coil pack. Remove the coil pack securing bolt, using a ratchet and a Torx-bit socket. Remove the coil, by pulling it upward with a slight twisting motion.

Step 4

Remove the spark plug from the engine using a ratchet, 6-inch extension and a spark plug socket. Pull the spark plug from the socket and insert a new spark plug in the spark plug socket until the rubber insert grips it firmly.

Step 5

Hand-tighten the spark plug into the engine, using a spark plug socket and 6-inch extension. Attach a torque wrench to the 6-inch extension and spark plug socket, and apply 20 foot-pounds of torque to the spark plug.

Step 6

Reinstall the coil pack on the spark plug and press it downward until it "clicks" into place on the spark plug. Tighten the coil pack bolt to 6 to 7 foot-pounds, using a torque wrench and a Torx-bit socket. Reconnect the wiring harness onto the coil pack.