Ignition coil - malfunctions. What are the symptoms of a damaged coil and is it only possible to replace it with a new element? Check out how to diagnose a failure!

What is the ignition coil in a car?

The ignition coil is an important, if not the most important component of the ignition system in a gasoline car engine. He is responsible for creating an electric charge, turning low-voltage current into a current with a voltage of 25-30 thousand. volt! gramgenerates electricity from the battery and provides the spark needed to start the combustion process! This is a very important element, so you should definitely take care of the life of the ignition coil, and if necessary, do not delay replacing it!

Ignition coil - design

The ignition coil works on the principle of electromagnetism. Each of them actually has two coils, that is, turns of wire called primary and secondary windings. The first - the primary consists of a wire of greater thickness and, at the same time, fewer turns. It has a positive contact and is responsible for supplying current to the ignition coil in the car. What else matters? Well, both electrical wires are grounded, but the coil has about 100-200 times as many turns as the original, made from about 10 times thinner wire.

Ignition coil - principle of operation

One end of the secondary winding is connected to ground, and the other to a high voltage contact, which directs it outside the ignition coil. Both are wound on a common iron core, consisting of several metal plates, each of which is separated by insulation. If the ignition coil in the car is out of order, the ignition system cannot function normally and the engine will not start.

How to check the ignition coil? Damage symptoms

It often happens that ignition cables, distributor or worn spark plugs are the cause of problems with the system. If you want to check if the ignition coil is working properly, you should perform a test consisting of measuring the resistance of the primary and secondary windings. In other words, you must measure resistance, which is the quantity that determines the relationship between voltage and current. What does it look like in practice? To test the ignition coil, you will need a device called an ohmmeter.

The primary resistance can vary from less than 1 ohm to several ohms depending on the vehicle. In turn, the resistance of the secondary can be from about 800 Ohms to even several kOhms. The value of the measured resistance should be compared with the parameters specified by the manufacturer of the ignition coil in your car.

The problem with the ignition coil may be in the presence of a short circuit between the turns. You can check this with an oscilloscope. The test consists in connecting an inductive or capacitive probe to high voltage channels. If you have single coils on spark plugs installed in your car, the so-called. Single spark coils require the use of a special feeler gauge that measures through the body of that part of the vehicle.

How to check the ignition coil in new cars? 

In newer types of vehicles, you only need to connect a diagnostic scanner to check the ignition system.. If your vehicle has a misfire detection system, such a scanner will indicate which correct cylinder is affected. However, he does not specify the reason for it.

Ignition coil life - how long is it?

The service life of original high quality ignition coils is up to 200-50 km. mileage. Cheaper ignition coil replacements have a much shorter lifespan. It usually does not exceed XNUMX XNUMX. mileage. As you can see, it is worth investing in new parts signed with the logo of the best manufacturers to avoid breakdowns and the need for frequent replacement of the ignition coil.

Ignition coil - price

If you are faced with the need to replace the ignition coil, you are probably wondering what costs to prepare for. we calm down! The price of a working ignition coil will not hit your budget. You can choose a more expensive solution, i.e. buy parts from famous companies. The cost of a branded ignition coil replacement ranges from PLN 100-150, and the cheapest options can be found even for 6 euros.

Ignition coil - symptoms

The ignition coil, like any other element, can be damaged. Symptoms of a damaged ignition coil can be different, as are the causes of failure. Sometimes the coil is not properly matched to the car, for example, a part with too much primary resistance was installed in the car's ignition system. What are the symptoms of an ignition coil? Notice the weaker spark, higher fuel consumption and lower vehicle power. On the other hand, when you install an ignition coil with too little resistance in a car, too much current will flow, which can damage that part of the car, or even the entire ignition module. Then the ignition coil needs to be replaced. Remember to select this item according to the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations.

Other Symptoms of a Failed Ignition Coil

Below we indicate the symptoms of the destruction of the ignition coil. If they are found, you will probably have to replace this element. Here are the symptoms of the ignition coil in your car that should alert you:

• problems with starting the engine;
• jerks while driving;
• uneven idle;
• less engine power.

Damaged ignition coil - the most common causes

Destruction of the ignition coil can cause:

• leaky intake manifold;
• valve broken.

It is relatively easy to diagnose misfires in a vehicle where the manufacturer has used single ignition coils per cylinder. All you have to do is change them and check if the misfire is being transferred to a particular part. If you confirm these symptoms, then you are sure that the ignition coil will need to be replaced.

Remember that the coil cannot be restored or repaired. If you notice any symptoms of a broken coil, replace it quickly to avoid more serious damage that can cause a lot of problems and... costs.