06 Coils & Plugs Replacement
 

Is it recommended to replace the back 3 coils when doing the plugs? My 06 SE has 111k mi on the clock and I don't want to risk failure of one of those nasty rear coils. Is this a risk to avoid? I don't have any experience w/ old cars w/ coil packs. This is my first vvt motor w/ coil packs on top so I'm not aware of the probability of these coils failing.
Also, are the AutoZone Hitachi brand coils the same spec quality as OEM? I noticed the OEM's are Hanshin branded. I see alot of cheap ones on eBay but I'm not buying into $10 coils when the OEM-grade ones are ~$50-100 ea. There's got to be a quality difference and I'm definitely not taking that risk.
Thanks.

I wouldn't and save some $$$. Removing the IM is a bit time consuming your first time out.

Get your feet wet with the plugs and if/when the coils go, you'll be ready.

If you replacing the spark plugs yourself then I would say no. Your only expense should you have to replace at a later date is your time and upper intake plenum gasket. If you are having the job performed by a mechanical you would have to pay the labor again. That said just because you replace the coils does not mean that one would not fail the next week, next month or year. Electronic parts can fail at any time, even new ones.

thanks for the responses guys. I elected to not replace the back 3 coils. I talked to a fuel injection & electronics auto shop (Davis Automotive) here in Richardson Tx and they said these are not known for typically failing. Yes, the first time taking off the IM is a real pain and now I know how to do it in case I get the opportunity again. The key is having some good little 1/4" drive mini ratchet/sockets The car has 111k mi and 2 of the 6 plugs were pretty worn away. I think they had about a .045" gap and the little electrode pin was worn away. I replaced with NGK iridium tips.