How to Replace Spark Plugs in a Ford Taurus

Ford Taurus engines made after 1999 have two different fuel options: a regular gasoline engine or a flexible fuel engine. In a Ford Taurus with a gasoline engine, the spark plugs need to be replaced every 100,000 miles. Flexible fuel engines run on both gasoline and another bio-fuel, and need new spark plugs every 30,000 miles.

Instructions

1

Turn the engine off and remove the negative battery cable. Let the car cool for 30 minutes to 1 hour so that it's safe to remove the spark plugs.

2

Locate the spark plugs on the sides, front, back or top of the engine, depending on year model and number of cylinders. If the engine has four cylinders, the spark plugs run along the front of the engine. If the engine has six cylinders, the spark plugs are located along the sides in models make before 1999. After 1999 the Taurus was manufactured using two different engine styles each year. The spark plugs on these models are either across the top or along the sides of the engine.

3

Grasp the spark plug wire by the cover on top of the spark plug that is commonly referred to as the "boot." Twist the boot to the right and then to the left and pull back.

4

Slide the spark plug socket over the spark plug and turn it to the left with the wrench to release the spark plug from the well.

5

Clean the well with the canned air. Spray the air into the well in various directions to remove any debris.

6

Apply a layer of anti-seize compound to the threads of the new spark plug and add one drop to the inside of the wire boot. Anti-seize compound is available at any auto parts store.

7

Gently thread the new spark plug into the well. If there is any resistance before the spark plug is completely threaded, unscrew the spark plug and begin again. Forcing the spark plug into place will damage more than just the spark plug. Test the tension to make sure it matches the required foot pounds listed on the plug's packaging.

8

Connect the spark plug wire to the spark plug. Continue this process for the rest of the spark plugs and then reconnect the negative battery cable when you complete the job.