A Guide to Replacing Ignition Coils on the 2014-2022 GMC Canyon
Everything you need to know about diagnosing and replacing a faulty ignition coil on your truck.
- Ignition coil replacement on the 2014-2022 Canyon is an easy DIY job for both the 4-cylinder and V6 engines due to excellent accessibility.
- Symptoms include rough idle, misfires, poor fuel economy, and a check engine light (P0300-P0306).
- Premium aftermarket brands like NGK, Delphi, and Hitachi are reliable alternatives to more expensive OEM ACDelco parts.
- It is highly recommended to replace spark plugs at the same time as the ignition coils, especially on higher-mileage vehicles.
Is Your GMC Canyon Ignition Coil Failing?
A bad ignition coil will almost always let you know something is wrong. The signs are hard to ignore and often get worse over time. If you notice one or more of these symptoms, a failing ignition coil is a likely suspect.
- Engine Misfires: This is the most common symptom. It can feel like a stutter, hesitation, or jerking when you accelerate. When idling, the engine may run rough or shake.
- Check Engine Light: A failing coil will trigger the check engine light. If the light is flashing, it indicates a severe misfire that could damage your expensive catalytic converter. You should avoid driving the truck if the light is flashing.
- Reduced Power and Fuel Economy: Your truck may feel sluggish and weak, especially when climbing hills or under load. Because the engine isn't burning fuel efficiently, you'll notice you're filling up the gas tank more often.
- Difficulty Starting: A weak or dead coil may not produce enough voltage to start the engine, especially when cold. The engine might crank for longer than usual before it starts, or it may not start at all.
Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
As of early 2026, there are no widespread recalls specifically for ignition coil failure on the 2014-2022 GMC Canyon. However, owners should be aware of Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) PIP5493C for some 2017 Canyon models with the 3.6L V6 engine. This TSB addresses engine misfire codes (P0300-P0306) and notes that the cause can sometimes be related to engine computer calibrations or internal engine components, not just a bad coil. If you replace a coil and the misfire persists, this TSB may be relevant.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
When shopping for a replacement, you'll find a wide range of brands and prices. They generally fall into three tiers.
| Brand Tier | Brands | Quality & Performance Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Premium (OEM-Equivalent) | ACDelco, Delphi, NGK, Hitachi | ACDelco is the original GM parts brand, offering a guaranteed fit and factory performance. Delphi was the original equipment manufacturer for many GM parts and is widely considered to be of equivalent quality. NGK is a top-tier Japanese brand known for making ignition components that meet or exceed OE standards, making them a very reliable choice. Hitachi is another respected OEM supplier. These brands offer the best reliability and longevity. |
| Quality Aftermarket | Standard Ignition (SMP), Walker Products, Spectra, Holstein | These are established aftermarket brands that produce reliable parts. They offer a good balance of quality and value for daily driving and are a solid choice over lesser-known budget brands. |
| Economy / Budget | DriveWire, Global Parts, Skyward, True Tech, Motorad | These brands offer the lowest price point. While tempting, quality can be inconsistent, and they may not last as long as premium or quality aftermarket options. They can be a solution to get a vehicle back on the road, but for long-term reliability, investing in a higher-tier brand is often recommended. |
DIY Replacement: An Easy Job on the Canyon
Good news for DIYers: replacing the ignition coils on both the 2.5L 4-cylinder and 3.6L V6 engines in the 2014-2022 Canyon is a straightforward job. Because the engine is mounted front-to-back (longitudinally), all the coils are easily accessible on top of the valve covers.
🎬 Watch this complete walkthrough for replacing coils and spark plugs.Pro Tip: While you're replacing a coil, it's a great time to replace the spark plugs. Worn spark plugs make the coil work harder, which can shorten its life. The original iridium plugs are typically due for replacement around 100,000 miles.
🎬 Watch: Step-by-step spark plug replacement for the 3.6L engine.Cost to Replace GMC Canyon Ignition Coils
| Part or Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Ignition Coil (Single) | $39.16 - $94.10 |
| New OEM Ignition Coil (Single) | $45 - $75 |
| Shop Labor (Diagnosis + Single Coil Replacement) | $80 - $150 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I replace all the ignition coils at once?
Because the coils on the Canyon are so easy to access, it is acceptable to replace only the one that has failed. However, ignition coils are wear items and tend to fail around the same time. If your truck has high mileage and one coil fails, the others may not be far behind. Replacing them all at once provides peace of mind and ensures consistent performance.
What do the misfire codes (P0300-P0306) mean?
Your truck's computer will store a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) when it detects a misfire. A code reader can pull these codes. A general code like P0300 means random or multiple cylinders are misfiring. A specific code, like P0301 for cylinder 1, P0302 for cylinder 2, and so on, tells you exactly which cylinder is having the problem, pointing you to the correct coil 🎬 See how to diagnose the real cause of a misfire. to test and replace.
How do I find the bad coil?
If you have a specific code (e.g., P0304), you know cylinder 4 is the problem. If you have a random misfire code (P0300) or no code reader, a common diagnostic trick is to swap the suspected bad coil with a known good one from another cylinder. Clear the codes, run the engine, and see if the misfire code "moves" to the new cylinder. If it does, you've confirmed the coil is bad.
Do I need any special tools?
No, the job requires basic hand tools. You will need a ratchet with a 10mm socket and an extension. A torque wrench is recommended to tighten the new coil's bolt to the correct specification, which is typically around 89 in-lbs (10 Nm). A small amount of dielectric grease for the inside of the coil boot is also highly recommended to ensure a good seal and make future removal easier.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: D515C
The 2014-2022 GMC Canyon uses a Coil-on-Plug (COP) ignition system, with one coil per cylinder. The coils are held in place by a single 10mm bolt and have a 4-pin electrical connector.
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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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