Does a 2016 Chevy Trax have spark plugs?

The short answer: Yes. The 2016 Chevy Trax uses four spark plugs—one for each cylinder—in its four-cylinder engine, paired with a coil-on-plug ignition system.

Engine and ignition arrangements

Spark plug count and ignition system

The 2016 Trax is equipped with a four-cylinder gasoline engine (most trims use a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine). It uses four spark plugs, each paired with its own ignition coil in a coil-on-plug configuration to deliver the spark to each cylinder at the correct moment.

There is a single engine layout for most 2016 Trax models, with ignition components mounted on or above the valve cover for access. Depending on the exact trim and market, you may need to remove the engine cover or nearby components to reach the plugs.

Key aspects of the spark plug setup in the 2016 Trax:

• There are four spark plugs—one for each cylinder.


• Each plug has its own ignition coil (coil-on-plug) mounted directly on top of it.


• Access to plugs typically requires removing the engine cover and possibly other components to reach each coil/plugs assembly.

Replacement plugs should match the OEM specification and be torqued to the manufacturer’s specification. The exact plug type (iridium vs platinum) depends on the engine variant and market.

Maintenance and replacement interval

Replacing spark plugs at the manufacturer-recommended interval helps ensure smooth operation and reliability. For the 2016 Trax’s four-cylinder engine, GM generally suggests changing spark plugs around 100,000 miles under normal driving conditions, though this can vary based on driving style, fuel quality, and the specific plug type installed. When replacing plugs, use OEM-spec plugs and follow the torque specs in the service manual.

If symptoms such as misfiring, rough idle, reduced power, or poor fuel economy appear, have the ignition system checked and the plugs inspected or replaced as needed before reaching the standard interval.

Summary

Yes—the 2016 Chevy Trax has spark plugs. It uses four plugs, one for each cylinder, with a corresponding ignition coil for each plug. Understanding this setup helps with maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs to keep the vehicle running efficiently.

How much does it cost to replace spark plugs in a Chevy Trax?

The cost to replace the spark plugs in a Chevy Trax typically ranges from $200 to $575, depending on the shop's labor rates and whether you use a dealership or an independent mechanic. Dealerships tend to be more expensive, while independent mechanics may have lower labor costs, but overall prices can vary based on the specific parts used and the complexity of accessing the plugs on your model year.
 
You can watch this video to learn how to replace the spark plugs in a Chevrolet Trax: 55sYOUCANICYouTube · Nov 11, 2022
Cost breakdown

• Labor: This is a significant part of the cost and depends on how difficult it is to access the spark plugs. Some models can take a few hours to reach, which drives up the labor rate. 
• Parts: Spark plugs themselves range in price from around $4 to $30 or more per plug, depending on the type (e.g., iridium, platinum). 
• Shop type:
  • Dealerships: Typically charge higher labor rates but use manufacturer-recommended parts that often come with a warranty. 
  • Independent Mechanics: May have lower labor rates and can use a wider variety of parts, which can result in a lower overall price. 
  • DIY: If you have the necessary skills, replacing the spark plugs yourself is the cheapest option, costing only the price of the parts. However, it's important to note that some vehicles have complex engine setups that make this more difficult. 

Factors that affect the cost

• Model year: Costs can vary between different model years due to engine design changes. For example, a 2018 model might be cheaper to service than a 2019 model. 
• Engine complexity: The labor cost is directly related to how difficult it is to get to the spark plugs. Some models have more complex intake pipe setups that require removal of other parts to access the spark plugs. 
• Parts choice: The type of spark plug you choose will impact the total cost. Platinum or iridium spark plugs are often more expensive than standard plugs, but they can last longer. 

Do Chevy Trax have spark plugs?

And As you remove them you're going to do an inspection on them to see how good or bad they look. Um you can find out some information about how your engine is running by looking at them a little bit.

What are the symptoms of a bad spark plug?

Symptoms of using the wrong spark plug include engine misfires, rough idling, poor acceleration, decreased fuel economy, and difficulty starting the engine. A flashing or steady "Check Engine" light can also indicate a problem, as the engine's computer detects suboptimal combustion. 
Performance issues

• Engine misfires: A sudden loss of power or a stuttering, jerking sensation, especially when accelerating. 
• Rough idling: The engine shakes or vibrates when the car is stopped, instead of running smoothly. 
• Poor acceleration: The car feels sluggish and doesn't respond quickly when you press the gas pedal. 
• Engine knocking or pinging: Unusual sounds from the engine can indicate improper combustion. 

Fuel and starting problems

• Decreased fuel economy: Your vehicle uses more gas than usual due to inefficient combustion. 
• Difficulty starting: The engine cranks longer than normal or struggles to start, particularly in cold weather. 

Diagnostic indicators

• "Check Engine" light: The light may come on, sometimes flashing, which signals that the engine control module has detected a problem with combustion. 

How many spark plugs does a 2016 Chevy Trax have?

Notes: Ruthenium HX high ignitability spark plug. Gap 0.027". Quantity per car: 4.