Installing spark plugs: '01 1.8T

**bradisonn** · 07-08-2008 09:58 AM

I'm trying to install some new spark plugs in my 1.8T and I was gonna follow the AudiDIY.com guide but my car seems to be different.

Notice the 8 coil bolts that need to be loosened to remove the plugs...mine does not have that. In fact, there are no bolts to remove...

I was just wondering if anyone knew how to get to install the plugs in my year.

**Burntaudi** · 07-08-2008 10:05 AM

Just grab the Coilpack and pull strait up.

**bradisonn** · 07-08-2008 10:08 AM

Really? I was going to do that but I wasn't sure if it would break anything. Alright, I guess I can finally install them when I get home tonight. Thanks!

**Nebone** · 07-08-2008 10:09 AM

Those are different coil packs which are bolted down. For yours, just unplug the plugs from the coils and pull on the coils and they will just slide out. You will then be able to take out the spark plugs.

Here is a guide to what plugs you need. Spark Plug 1.8T Guide

**tdn** · 07-08-2008 10:09 AM

Yeah, those coilpacks you have pictured aren't stock. Yours just pop out. Also, disconnecting them makes things a little easier.

**Mooseimage** · 07-08-2008 10:16 AM

It's pretty simple. I have the same car as you, except stick. Take off the cover, and you see the coil packs. Disconnect the wire harness from it, easy by pulling by hand or use flathead screwdriver. Since we don't have the bolts, you just pull up with a bit of force on the coil packs and it slides right out. Everything is the same as the AudiDIY.com guide after that. The bolt down type coil packs are from earlier model b5's. Ours is just by a nice snug fit.

Just to finish off, use a socket wrench with 6" extension to unscrew the spark plugs. Might have to use some force to twist it loose at first if it was in there a long time, and make sure to twist with your legs. I twisted with my arms and ended up having my flesh ripped off on a finger from banging my hand the motor. At least I can truly state I put my sweat and blood into my car though.:) After that, put in new plugs and the coil packs in reverse order.

Make sure to use a torque wrench to tighten spark plugs to 22 ft.lbs. I did my coil packs while I was at it, just for peace of mind. They went for 35 a piece at my local dealership. Used same sparkplugs as you. Search for more info on those two.

**bradisonn** · 07-08-2008 10:17 AM

yeah, it really confused me...i bought the NGK PFR6Q (OEM Platinum). I'm hoping there will be a significant difference in performance. I was reading that article you linked and the guy said it rode a lot smoother. That would be a nice inexpensive upgrade...

**1a9u9d8i** · 07-08-2008 10:32 AM

you are not going to notice a difference in changing spark plugs. unless your old ones were really fvcked up... a spark is a spark is a spark

**ct1.8t4me** · 07-08-2008 10:33 AM

I didn't read everyone's responses here - but make sure that if you are currently driving the Audi, don't just go home, pop the hood and start monkeying with the plugs. It's best to do it on a cold engine - you run a serious risk of screwing up the threads on an aluminum head if the engine is hot or even warm from just driving it.

**bradisonn** · 07-08-2008 10:40 AM

will do, thanks for the heads up!

and i might actually notice some difference then because i dont think they have ever been changed...

**Burntaudi** · 07-08-2008 10:58 AM

Sounds like you didn't search on here. These cars run better on copper plugs. Platinum plugs last a long time their not good for performance

**bradisonn** · 07-08-2008 11:23 AM

huh, really? would there be a huge difference. How long do the copper plugs last?

**karmad** · 07-08-2008 11:49 AM

Originally Posted by nebone22

Those are different coil packs which are bolted down. For yours, just unplug the plugs from the coils and pull on the coils and they will just slide out. You will then be able to take out the spark plugs.

Here is a guide to what plugs you need. Spark Plug 1.8T Guide

So with reading that article are we supposed to be gapped @ .032 or .028 im running ngk brk6e platinum(el cheapos) gapped @ .028 should it be .032? or should i get the 7e's and gap em to .032 or .0.28?

**ct1.8t4me** · 07-08-2008 12:02 PM

I change my plugs with every oil change - Any time the Service Engine or Service Oil indicators go on, I change my oil and I don't worry about it any other time. I use NGK BKR7E's at .28.

**Nebone** · 07-08-2008 12:03 PM

I have BKR6Es gapped at .028" and get no misfires while at full boost and normal driving but it tends to misfire and skip a beat at idle. These plugs do wear faster so then the electrode wears down, the gap gets larger. Guide says to use colder plugs BKR7Es for chipped cars but that plug should be used with K04 preferably.

**00a4** · 12-03-2010 02:12 PM

Just found this thread and I'm going to change my sparks in the next few days. How do you get the gaps right and are there any issues that would come up with the ecu?

**MikeD7** · 12-03-2010 02:26 PM

Originally Posted by 00a4

Just found this thread and I'm going to change my sparks in the next few days. How do you get the gaps right and are there any issues that would come up with the ecu?

With on of these (can be bought at your local parts store, where you are probably buying your plugs)

NOT one of these

**cabby1** · 12-16-2010 12:53 PM

Just checked out this thread. I'm new here. Have a 2001 A4 1.8 Avant with a stage one APR chip. Everything else stock. I live where it is cold but not below freezing very often. Can I use the 7E copper plugs or should I stick with the 6E's gapped to 0.28?? I'm confused. From what I've read I think everyone here is saying you should have a larger turbo to run the colder 7E?! Is that correct? Please give me some feedback on what I should run in my Avant. I would be willing to change them more often it it helped with performance....thanks in advance.....