How to remove the #3 spark plug that is stripped/broken on a 2001 malibu?

Asked by wikdwilly Jan 07, 2014 at 01:32 AM about the 2001 Chevrolet Malibu

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I have tried to remove the #3 spark plug from my 2001 Malibu, with no results. It is very
hard to get to that particular spark plug because there is not much room between the
fire wall and cylinder. I somehow broke the top off and the bottom of the spark plug is
cracked in half. I tried different tools but still won't come out. There is not enough
clearance in the area of the #3 spark plug to fit a drill in there or any other kind of tool.
Please help, it's the only car I have, plus I have no money and I know just a enough
about cars, to keep mine from going to an auto-repar shop. I was trying to change the
plugs for a smog check, which is now past due.

2 Answers
40,265

James answered 11 years ago

first you have to get the broken pieces out of your way, blow air, or suction,pick tool, ect, then soak remaining spark plug with penetrating oil, fit socket over plug metal nut, work loose by left and right turning with the correct socket and drive wrenches it should unscrew, what's left of it.

Mark helpful
115

catsman answered 11 years ago

The only way to reach #3 plug. Is to loosen the altenator and pull it forward or loosen the motor mounts and rock the engine forward I went thru the same thing with my 99 malibu

1 people found this helpful.
Mark helpful

Your Answer:

Related Questions

Own this car?

Share your experience with others.

2001 Chevrolet Malibu

Write a car review

Review another car

Shortcuts

Search Chevrolet Malibu Questions

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    Gene Arnett
    Reputation
    4,630
  • #2
    T_S_T
    Reputation
    4,420
  • #3
    tenspeed
    Reputation
    4,150
View All

Know more, shop wisely

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Chevrolet Impala
188 Great Deals out of 3,384 listings starting at $1,999
Used Honda Accord
1,305 Great Deals out of 23,289 listings starting at $998
Used Toyota Camry
2,404 Great Deals out of 43,916 listings starting at $975
Used Nissan Altima
1,324 Great Deals out of 33,317 listings starting at $1,490
Used Honda Civic
1,187 Great Deals out of 27,118 listings starting at $1,995
Used Hyundai Sonata
697 Great Deals out of 15,239 listings starting at $1,200
Used Toyota Corolla
1,702 Great Deals out of 27,900 listings starting at $1,500
Used Hyundai Elantra
882 Great Deals out of 33,201 listings starting at $1,125
Used Chevrolet Camaro
545 Great Deals out of 7,414 listings starting at $4,886
Used Chevrolet Silverado 1500
4,230 Great Deals out of 118,420 listings starting at $2,495

Used Cars for Sale

2024 Chevrolet Malibu For Sale
103 Great Deals out of 2,579 listings starting at $15,795
2023 Chevrolet Malibu For Sale
138 Great Deals out of 2,921 listings starting at $11,995
2022 Chevrolet Malibu For Sale
244 Great Deals out of 3,367 listings starting at $10,799
2021 Chevrolet Malibu For Sale
70 Great Deals out of 925 listings starting at $7,995
2020 Chevrolet Malibu For Sale
76 Great Deals out of 1,212 listings starting at $6,799

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.