2001 Alero Spark Plugs

Hey all, forgive me if I'm being redundant. I've searched the threads and didn't see any other posts on the issue I'm having.

I'm trying to replace the spark plugs on an 01 Alero GLS 2.4L (4cyl). I've gotten the cover pulled, the old plugs out and the new in, but when I reassembled the top cover and fired it up my dash was lit up like a Christmas tree (service engine soon, Trac Off) and the engine ran worse than before I changed them.

I pulled the cover back of and pulled all the coil over plugs off and noticed one was cracked so I bought 4 new ones, even though the parts guy said I didn't need to replace them.

I'm assuming my problem is that I'm not able to get the coils lined up properly when repositioning the top cover and not making a good connection on all plugs. The first time I reassembled it I put the coils on the plugs, lined up the tabs to match the top cover then installed the top cover over it. this time I'm trying to reinstall the top cover with the boots snapped into position but I can't get the ignition wire plug past/under the fuel line to get it to line up.

Should I have to disassemble any other component to get this accomplished? How do you guys do this? Coils on plugs then reinstall top cover?

im assuming youve et the correct gap for the plugs and are using ac delco? wrong gap and wrong plug type can cause problems running....i have the 3400 o not familiar if its the same set up...when i changed mine i just connected the boots without a problem

I am curious of the outcome. When I changed plugs on the 2.4, I've never had issues like this. Also there is no way to mix up plug wires. Might be a good idea to scan for trouble codes. Could have a bad batch of plugs. GM motors don't like bosch, and I've had issues in the past with champions straight out of the box. Also I've heard of quality issues with delco rapid fires.

My 2001 liked the original equip ac and also liked the plain jane ngk, which are still in there now for 90,000km so far. The coil/cover/housing setup on the 2.4 around 2001 are finicky they will leak spark easily under load. Make sure your gap is not over the limit....a little under would be ok. Make sure the housing and all connections are clean! I wiped down my housing with a rag soaked in wd40 just to help repel moisture when I fly through the big puddles. Although the last big rainstorm moisture got to my fuel pump relay and caused havoc. Don't go fancy with the spark plugs just get stock plugs or plain ngk.

Sorry for the delay everyone, I lost all the thread info and it took me forever to find it again. I pulled all the plugs again and double checked the gap and they were correct. I was using plain old AC Delco plugs. After pulling the cover off I noticed a few of the coils covers were cracked so I replaced those, even the though the guy at O'Reilly said I didn't need too. I re-installed the coils on the plugs, then the top cover and this time it fired right up and ran perfectly. The only thing I can think of is the first time maybe I pushed the coils over the plugs too far and the points on the top cover didn't make a good connection. Thank you all for your replies and comments!