2000-2005 Mercedes benz S430 and S500 Ignition Coil Replacement
This is a guide to help you replace the ignition coils in a 2000-2005 Mercedes Benz S430 or S500.
This is something the average DIY person with a little bit of mechanical knowledge can tackle.
A little bit to know about this car before performing this job:
These cars have a twin spark ignition system. This means that there are 2 spark plugs per cylinder, and 2 spark plug wires that connect to each ignition coil. Make sure you don't get these mixed up! We recommend changing one at a time.
If you are just changing ignition coils, the only tool you will need is a T30 torx socket (typical size would be a 3/8 inch drive) and a 3/8 inch ratchet.
Tools: T30 torx socket (3/8inch drive) 3/8 inch ratchet.
If you are changing the spark plugs. you may also need a Mercedes spark plug wire remover tool (around $20). It helps to easily remove the spark plug wire without damaging anything near it.
This job is a very straight forward procedure.
1: Remove both of the plastic air hoses that connect to air box (driver's and passenger's side).
2. Remove the front plastic engine cover (the part with the Logo on it). It just pops off. Lift up and pull towards you.
3. Remove the airbox (it makes up the back part of the engine cover..it has the word "Mercedes benz") on it. It pops off the same was as the front cover. Just lift up.
4. You will notice that the 8 ignition coils are fully exposed. Each coil is help down by a T30 torx bolt. Carefully unplug the electric connector (care ful to not break it as it is 10+ years old) and remove the T30 Torx bolt.
5. Next you will need to remove the 2 spark plug wires that areconnected to the coils. MAKE SURE YOU DO NOT GET THEM MIXED UP. Keep note of the different length spark plug wires on each coil.
6. Install the new coil, connect the spark plug wires, connect the electrical connector
7. Put the airbox/ engine covers back on, and reinstall the left and right hand side air box plastic air hoses.
You are finished!
