How to Change the Spark Plug Wires in a 1997 Camry

Spark plug wires make the connection from the distributor cap to the spark plugs, providing the electric charge needed to ignite the fuel and start the engine. Like all parts in the car, the spark plug wires will wear down and need replacement. Unlike other car parts that require a mechanic for replacement, you can change the spark plug wires yourself, including on a 1997 Toyota Camry.

Things You'll Need

• Replacement spark plug wires
• 10mm wrench

Instructions

1. Purchase replacement spark plug wires from an auto parts store. An attendant can help you find the correct wires for your car.

2. Take the spark plug wires out of the box and line them up. The wires come in different lengths to match the length of the old wires. Some manufacturers place a number on each wire to aid replacement.

3. Remove the negative cable from the battery by loosening the cable clamp with a 10mm wrench and pulling it off of the battery terminal. This prevents the car from accidental starting.

4. Locate the spark plug wires in your engine. The wires are thick, have a rubber outer cover and are connected directly to your engine. The spark plug wires have a rubber boot over the connector.

5. Pull on the rubber boot of one of the spark plug wires connected to the engine. If you encounter resistance, rock the boot back and forth while pulling. Do not pull on the wire as it may pull it out of the boot.

6. Trace the wire to the opposite end where you will find it connected to the distributor cap.

7. Remove the opposite end of the spark plug wire from the distributor cap, using the same method described in Step 5.

8. Find the replacement spark plug wire that is the same length as the wire you removed. If both wires have a number, match the number of the spark plug wires.

9. Attach the replacement wire to the distributor cap and then the opposite side to the open spark plug in the engine. You will hear a small pop when the wire is properly connected.

10. Repeat Steps 5-9 for the remaining spark plug wires. You will need to replace a total of four or six wires, depending on the engine model of your 1997 Toyota Camry.

11. Reattach the negative battery cable to the negative battery terminal, using the 10mm wrench.

Tips & Warnings

• Replace the wires one at a time. If you remove all of the wires at once you may mix up the firing pattern of the engine, causing it not to run.

References

• Popular Mechanics: Replacing Spark Plug Wires
• AutoZone: Repair Manuals