2017 Ford Fusion Spark Plug Replacement — 2.5L iVCT (Motorcraft SP-514, 10 ft-lb)
2017 Ford Fusion Spark Plug Replacement — 2.5L iVCT (Motorcraft SP-514, 10 ft-lb)
Here's how I do spark plug replacement on my 2017 Ford Fusion with the 2.5L iVCT four-cylinder. Ford's recommended service interval is 100,000 miles — but if you bought your Fusion used and can't confirm the plugs were ever changed, do them now regardless of mileage. The correct plug is Motorcraft SP-514 (or Autolite APP3924, the direct OEM equivalent), torque is 10 ft-lbs, and the job takes about an hour with basic hand tools. Dealer quote for this job: $200–$280. My cost: about $40 in parts.
About the 2.5L iVCT
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Get the DIY Mechanic SystemThe 2.5-liter inline-four in the base Fusion is a reliable engine with good serviceability. The coil-on-plug (COP) ignition system means you're pulling four individual coil packs, one per cylinder, rather than dealing with plug wires. The plugs themselves are platinum-tipped and seated in deep plug wells — a ratchet extension is essential.
One caveat: if you have the 1.5T EcoBoost or 2.0T EcoBoost, the procedure is similar but plug specs differ.
Tools and Parts
- Spark plugs: 4x Motorcraft SP-514 (OEM spec, platinum-tipped)
- Aftermarket equivalent: Autolite APP3924, NGK 3764
- 5/8-inch spark plug socket (rubber-lined, magnetic preferred)
- 3-inch and 6-inch extensions
- Torque wrench (10–15 ft-lb range)
- Ratchet (3/8-inch drive)
- Dielectric grease (small amount for coil boot interiors)
- Compressed air or shop vacuum (to clear debris from plug wells)
- Nitrile gloves, rags
Spec Sheet
| Item | Spec |
|---|---|
| Spark plug | Motorcraft SP-514 |
| Gap | Pre-gapped from factory — do not adjust platinum plugs |
| Torque | 10 ft-lbs (13.6 Nm) |
| Service interval | 100,000 miles (platinum OEM) |
| Coil retaining bolt | 7mm, 53 in-lbs (6 Nm) |
Step-by-Step: 2017 Fusion Spark Plug Replacement
Access the Engine Bay
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Let the engine cool completely — ideally overnight, or at minimum 30 minutes after shutting off. Aluminum threads strip easily if you work on a warm engine.
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Remove the plastic engine cover if equipped — it snaps off or has a few 7mm bolts. Set it aside.
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The four coil packs sit directly on top of the engine in a row. Each coil is retained by a single 7mm bolt and has an electrical connector.
Pull the Coil Packs
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Starting with cylinder 1, unplug the coil electrical connector. Press the tab and pull firmly.
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Remove the 7mm coil retaining bolt. Pull the coil pack straight up with a gentle twisting motion. The coil boot grips the spark plug — don't yank sideways. If stuck, use channel-lock pliers with a rag to protect the coil body.
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Repeat for all four cylinders. Lay coils aside in order.
Clear the Wells and Remove Old Plugs
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Use compressed air or a shop vac to blow out each plug well before removing the plugs.
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Insert your spark plug socket (5/8") with extension into the well. Break loose counter-clockwise, then spin out by hand.
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Inspect the old plugs: look for even electrode wear across all four. Uneven wear may indicate a coil or injector issue.
Install New Plugs
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Do not re-gap Motorcraft SP-514 platinum plugs — they're factory pre-gapped and platinum tips are damaged by gapping tools.
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Thread each new plug in by hand first to avoid cross-threading in the aluminum head.
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Once hand-tight, torque to 10 ft-lbs (13.6 Nm). This is lower than older cast-iron engines — 10 ft-lbs is correct.
Reinstall Coil Packs
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Apply a very small amount of dielectric grease to the interior of each coil boot (not the plug terminal itself).
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Press each coil pack straight down onto its plug until it seats. Reinstall the 7mm bolt — torque to 53 in-lbs (6 Nm).
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Reconnect each electrical connector until it clicks.
Verify
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Reinstall the engine cover.
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Start the engine. It may run rough for 10–20 seconds — normal. Let it idle for 2 minutes and confirm smooth operation.
Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Dealer
| DIY | Ford Dealer | |
|---|---|---|
| 4x Motorcraft SP-514 | $30–$40 | Included |
| Labor | $0 | $150–$200 |
| Total | $30–$40 | $200–$280 |
Savings: $160–$240 per service.
For more Ford maintenance guides, browse the OwnerDrop blog — including F-150 and EcoBoost spark plug walkthroughs.
Want a complete step-by-step library for your Fusion? Get the full repair library at OwnerDrop.
Written by OwnerDrop Team
DIY automotive guides and systems for independent mechanics. We test every procedure, document every torque spec, and build every tool list from scratch.
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