2002 Pontiac Aztek changing spark plugs

MLK333

MEMBER
2002 PONTIAC AZTEK

Engine Mechanical problem
2002 Pontiac Aztek 6 cyl All Wheel Drive Automatic

I really need to change the 6th spark plug in my Aztek! It has needed to be changed for almost a year now but being a single mother and full time student and currently unemployed I cant afford to take it in. I have changed them before in vehicles where they were reachable but I dont know the best way to get to my plugs. Can you please help me? I have read you can go underneath the vehicle or pull the engine up and forward, but I just want to know the easiest and fastest way to get to them with out having to take a bunch of stuff apart. Thank you so much!

1 Reply

BLUELIGHTNIN6

MECHANIC
16,542 POSTS

Hello and thanks for donating

There is really only one way to do this without using special tools and rotating engine. Put the front of the Aztek on ramps then set the emergency brake and chock the rear tires. You will be working under the car. Get a 3/8 inch ratchet with a long extension, a swivel, a spark plug socket and a standard deep well socket. Use the spark plug socket for removing the old plugs and the standard socket for installing the new plugs. The spark plug socket has rubber inside that holds tightly to the plug and this will make it difficult to remove from the new plug once tightened due to the limited working space. Progress will be slow and you will rely on feel. Positioning yourself and maintaining position will be somewhat difficult but the work itself is easy. It can be done this way from underneath the vehicle, otherwise you will have to go with the "proper" way and remove several components to rotate engine.