Ford Explorer Ignition Coil Boot Replacement Guide (2010-2019)
Fixing engine misfires and rough idle in your Explorer often starts with this small but critical part.
- Replacing only the coil boots is a cost-effective fix for misfires if the ignition coils are still good.
- Always replace spark plugs at the same time as the boots for a complete and lasting repair.
- On V6 models, the rear three boots are much harder to access and will increase labor time and cost.
- Use dielectric grease inside the new boots to ensure a good seal and prevent future issues.
Is Your Explorer Shaking or Running Rough?
One of the most common reasons for a 2010-2019 Ford Explorer to run poorly is a failing ignition coil boot. When this rubber boot gets old, it cracks and allows the spark from the ignition coil to escape instead of reaching the spark plug. This causes an engine misfire, which you might feel as a shake, a stutter, or a general lack of power, especially when accelerating.
🎬 Watch this 3.5L EcoBoost misfire diagnosis and repair walkthroughFlashing Check Engine Light? Pull Over.
If your check engine light is flashing, it signals a severe misfire. Unburned fuel is being sent into your exhaust, which can quickly overheat and destroy your catalytic converters. This turns a small repair into a very expensive one. If you see a flashing light, reduce your speed and get the vehicle inspected immediately.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Coil Boot
When your original Motorcraft boots fail, you don't always need to buy a whole new ignition coil. If the coil itself is still good, just replacing the boot and spring is a smart, budget-friendly repair. Here’s how the options stack up:
- OEM (Motorcraft): This is the original part your Explorer came with. It guarantees a perfect fit but is usually the most expensive option.
- Premium Aftermarket (Denso): Denso is a major manufacturer of original parts for many car brands. Their aftermarket parts are known to be very high quality, often matching or exceeding OEM standards. They are a trusted choice for a reliable repair.
- Quality Aftermarket (Standard Motor Products): Standard (SMP) is a well-respected aftermarket brand that produces reliable ignition components. Their parts are a dependable alternative to OEM, offering a good balance of quality and price.
Pro Tip: Most mechanics strongly recommend replacing the spark plugs at the same time you replace the coil boots. Since you already have everything taken apart, doing both jobs at once saves time and ensures the new boots are paired with fresh plugs for the best performance and longevity.
Common Ordering Mistakes for Explorer Owners
The 2010-2019 Explorer used several different engines, including the 2.0L and 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cylinder 🎬 See how to fix misfires on the 2.3L EcoBoost engine and the 3.5L V6 (naturally aspirated and EcoBoost). The ignition coil boots are not always interchangeable between these engines. Always verify that the part you are ordering fits your specific engine type and model year to avoid frustration.
Replacement Cost for Ignition Coil Boot Kits
| Part Type | Typical Cost (Per Kit or Set) |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Motorcraft) Boot Kit | $10 - $20 per boot |
| New Aftermarket Boot Kit (Denso, Standard) | $22.67 - $154.85 (varies by kit size and brand) |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $250 |
Note: Costs are estimates and can vary based on your location and specific vehicle engine. The V6 engines require more labor to access the rear bank of cylinders, increasing the cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I replace all the coil boots at once?
Yes. If one boot has failed due to age and heat, the others are likely not far behind. Replacing them all at once is good preventative maintenance and saves you from having to do the same job again in a few months.
Is it okay to just replace the boot and not the whole coil?
Absolutely. As long as the ignition coil itself is not faulty, replacing just the boot and spring is a very common and cost-effective repair 🎬 Watch: Step-by-step guide to replacing ignition coils on a V6 for misfires caused by arcing. Many owners do this to save money.
What is dielectric grease and do I need it?
Yes, you need it. Dielectric grease is a non-conductive silicone grease that you should apply to the inside of the new boot before installing it. It helps create a better seal against moisture and corrosion, makes installation easier, and prevents the boot from getting stuck to the spark plug in the future.
Is this a difficult job to do myself?
For 4-cylinder engines, it's very easy. For the V6 engines, the front three boots are easy, but the rear three are more difficult because they are located under the intake manifold, which must be removed for access. While DIY-feasible for those with some experience, it is a more involved job for the rear bank.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: WR-6135 75MM67G F7TZ-12A402-AA BL3Z-12A402-A CB5Z-12A402-A
The 2010 model year used a different chassis and engine (4.0L V6 or 4.6L V8) than the 2011-2019 models, which primarily used the 3.5L V6 or 4-cylinder EcoBoost engines. Ignition parts are not interchangeable between these generations. The 3.5L V6 in the 2011-2019 models has three ignition coils on the front of the engine that are easy to access and three on the rear that require removing the upper intake manifold.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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