A Guide to Replacing Ignition Coils on Your 2009-2017 Chevrolet Traverse
Experiencing engine misfires or a rough idle in your Traverse? A failing ignition coil could be the culprit.
- Replacing the three rear ignition coils requires removing the upper intake manifold, making the job significantly more difficult than replacing the front three.
- It is highly recommended to replace all six coils and the spark plugs at the same time to avoid repeat labor costs.
- A flashing check engine light indicates a severe misfire that can damage the catalytic converters; immediate attention is required.
- Using high-quality brands like ACDelco, Delphi, or NGK is a wise investment, especially for the hard-to-reach rear coils.
Signs of a Failing Ignition Coil
When an ignition coil in your Traverse starts to fail, it won't be subtle. The symptoms are often disruptive to your driving experience and should be addressed promptly to avoid further issues. A failing coil can cause unburned fuel to enter the exhaust, which can damage the expensive catalytic converters.
- Rough Idle: Your Traverse may shake or vibrate more than usual when stopped at a light or in park.
- Engine Misfires: You might feel a jerking or sputtering sensation while driving as the engine struggles to maintain power. This can be accompanied by popping sounds from the engine.
- Check Engine Light: A steady check engine light will often appear. A code scanner will likely show codes from P0300 (Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire) to P0301-P0306 (indicating a misfire in a specific cylinder).
- Reduced Power and Poor Acceleration: Your SUV may feel sluggish and slow to respond when you press the gas pedal.
- Worse Fuel Economy: When a cylinder isn't firing correctly, the engine becomes less efficient, leading to more frequent trips to the gas station.
- Gasoline Smell from Exhaust: A weak or nonexistent spark can leave unburned fuel that gets pushed out through the exhaust.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
When shopping for a new ignition coil, you'll find a wide range of brands and prices. For your 2009-2017 Traverse, it's important to balance cost with quality, especially considering the labor involved in replacing the rear coils.
Brand Tiers
- Premium OE-Equivalent Brands (ACDelco, Delphi, Bosch, NGK): ACDelco is the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for GM vehicles, making it a guaranteed fit and quality choice. Delphi was a part of GM and is a major OEM supplier, so their quality is considered equivalent to ACDelco. Bosch and NGK are also top-tier brands known for their excellent engineering and reliability. These are the best choice if you want peace of mind and OEM-level performance.
- Quality Aftermarket Brands (Standard Ignition, Hitachi, Spectra): These brands are well-regarded in the industry and offer a solid balance of quality and price. They are a reliable choice for a daily driver and often meet or exceed original specifications.
- Budget-Friendly Brands (DriveWire, True Tech, URO Parts, Walker Products): These brands provide a low-cost alternative. While they can get your Traverse running again, their long-term durability and performance may not match the higher-tiered brands. They can be a viable option for a quick fix or if budget is the primary concern.
Known Issues and Technical Bulletins
For early models of this Traverse generation (around 2009), a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB), PIP5038B, was issued for issues including misfires and shuddering. It points to potential problems with ignition coil grounds being dirty or not properly torqued. In some cases of repeated coil failure, the bulletin suggested replacing all six coils, spark plugs, and even the Engine Control Module (ECM) as a set. While this is an extreme case, it highlights the importance of clean and secure electrical connections for the ignition system.
Cost to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2009-2017 Traverse
The cost varies significantly based on whether you're replacing front or rear coils. The front three are easy to access, but the rear three require removing the upper intake manifold, which increases labor time and cost.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Single Aftermarket Ignition Coil | $35 - $125 |
| Set of 6 Aftermarket Ignition Coils | $150 - $450+ |
| Shop Labor (Front Coils Only) | $70 - $150 |
| Shop Labor (All 6 Coils) | $250 - $500+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the ignition coils located on my Traverse?
Your 3.6L V6 engine has two banks of cylinders. Three ignition coils are on the front of the engine (near the radiator) and are easy to see and access once you remove the engine cover. The other three are on the rear bank (near the firewall) and are hidden underneath the plastic upper intake manifold.
Is it hard to replace the ignition coils myself?
It's a tale of two difficulties. Replacing the front three coils is an easy DIY job that requires only basic tools like a 10mm socket and can be done in under an hour. 🎬 See this walkthrough for replacing the front ignition coils Replacing the rear three is much more involved because you must remove the upper intake manifold. This is an intermediate-level job that can take 2-3 hours and requires careful handling of gaskets and connectors.
Should I replace all six coils at the same time?
It's strongly recommended. Ignition coils are wear items and tend to fail around the same time. Given the difficult access to the rear bank, replacing all six coils (and spark plugs) at once saves you from having to repeat the labor-intensive part of the job a few months later when another original coil fails.
What are the most common trouble codes for a bad ignition coil?
The most common codes are P0300 (Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected) and P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304, P0305, or P0306. The last digit corresponds to the cylinder number with the misfire (e.g., P0304 is a misfire on cylinder 4). You might also see codes like P0354, which points to a fault in the ignition coil circuit for a specific cylinder.
🎬 Watch: Diagnosing misfire codes P0300, P0304, and P0354Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 12632479 D515C
Your Traverse uses a 'Coil-on-Plug' (COP) ignition system. Each of the six coils is a pencil-style coil that fits directly onto the spark plug. The coil is held in place by a single 10mm bolt.
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.
- Chevrolet Traverse: