How to Change Spark Plugs on Toyota's Twin Turbo V6 (V35A-FTS Engine)

Engine Overview and Spark Plug Service

• 💡 The video demonstrates how to replace spark plugs on Toyota's new twin-turbo V6 engine, specifically the V35A-FTS, found in models like the 2022-2025 Tundra, Sequoia, and certain Lexus vehicles.
• 📌 Spark plugs on this engine are recommended for replacement every 40,000 miles, a standard interval for Toyota/Lexus turbo engines.
• 💰 DIY replacement can save significant costs, as dealerships may charge over $1,000 for this service.

Skill Level and Precautions

• 🧠 This job is considered a slight challenge for those familiar with previous V8 Tundras/Sequoias, and somewhat similar to GX 460 spark plug changes.
• ⚠️ Access is difficult due to the engine's placement; a creeper table is recommended for lifted trucks.
• ⚠️ Be mindful of resting weight on fragile hoses and plastic components, especially around the radiator sensors.
• ⚠️ Avoid leaning on or breaking small hoses connected to sensors.

Essential Tools for the Job

• 🛠️ Key tools include a torque wrench (capable of 66 in-lbs), 8mm and 10mm long extension swivel sockets (GearWrench recommended), and a 14mm spark plug socket (a Mercedes-Benz special tool or a regular 14mm socket with a magnet).
• 🛠️ Extensions (6-inch and 10-inch 3/8) and a 10mm socket with a ratchet are necessary.
• 🛠️ Needle-nose pliers are useful for maneuvering hoses and clips.
• 🛠️ A magnetic-tipped pocket screwdriver or magnet is crucial for retrieving bolts and plugs.
• ⚡ An impact driver can speed up bolt removal/installation.

Step-by-Step Replacement Process (Bank 1)

• ⚙️ Begin by removing the engine cover and loosening wire harness brackets (10mm bolts).
• ⚙️ Remove a sensor bracket (10mm and 8mm bolts) and disconnect the sensor, being gentle with hoses.
• ⚙️ Remove the purge valve by carefully detaching its two front hoses and setting it aside.
• ⚙️ Disconnect the electrical connectors for the three ignition coils, pushing the tab and pulling the connector.
• ⚙️ Remove the three 8mm bolts securing each coil pack.
• ⚙️ Carefully pull out the coil packs, maneuvering around hoses and harnesses.
• ⚙️ Use a 14mm socket with an extension to loosen and remove the spark plug, working one plug at a time.
• ⚙️ Install the new spark plug and torque it to 15 ft-lbs.
• ⚙️ Reinstall the coil packs, ensuring proper alignment with bolt holes, and secure them with their 8mm bolts torqued to 66 in-lbs.
• ⚙️ Reconnect coil connectors and reinstall the purge valve and associated hoses.
• ⚙️ Reinstall the sensor bracket and its bolts, then clip the wire harness back into place.

Step-by-Step Replacement Process (Bank 2)

• ⚙️ On the second bank, address a coolant pipe bracket and a 10mm harness bolt, being cautious of dropping these small fasteners.
• ⚙️ Loosen an 8mm bolt for the coolant pipe bracket to allow movement.
• ⚙️ Unclip the harness and disconnect the high-pressure fuel pump connector by squeezing both tabs.
• ⚙️ Disconnect the three coil pack connectors, noting the difficulty with the rear-most one which may require removing a small bracket (10mm bolt).
• ⚙️ Remove the three 8mm bolts for the coil packs, twisting the harness for better access to the rear bolt.
• ⚙️ Carefully extract the coil packs, maneuvering around coolant hoses and fuel lines.
• ⚙️ Use the appropriate extension (shorter for the rear plug) to remove the spark plug and install the new one, torquing to 15 ft-lbs.
• ⚙️ Reinstall coil packs, securing with 8mm bolts torqued to 66 in-lbs, and reconnect connectors.
• ⚙️ Reinstall the bracket for the rear coil, ensuring the cutout aligns with the valve cover, and torque its 10mm bolt to 7 ft-lbs.
• ⚙️ Reinstall the coolant pipe bracket and torque its bolt to 7 ft-lbs.
• ⚙️ Reconnect the high-pressure fuel pump connector and ensure all harnesses are clipped in.

Final Steps and Considerations

• 🏁 Reinstall the engine cover by clipping the rear first, then the front.
• ✅ Start the engine before replacing the cover to check for a check engine light or running issues; if present, re-check connections.
• ⚠️ The job primarily tests patience and physical endurance (back strain) rather than complex mechanical skill.
• ⚠️ Do not attempt PCV valve replacement concurrently, as it requires extensive disassembly.
• ⚠️ Toyota recommends changing spark plugs at 40,000 miles.
• ⚠️ The labor time for this job is approximately 2-2.5 hours for a DIYer, with dealership labor times often being excessively high (e.g., 5 hours).