An ignition coil, as its name suggests, plays a vital role in igniting the engine. This small yet potent device delivers up to 60,000 volts of power to the spark plugs to ensure your vehicle’s smooth operation. You can find the ignition coil nestled within the engine compartment. The heart of your vehicle’s performance lies in its ignition system, with the ignition coil playing a starring role. Keeping it maintained will help to have a smooth, efficient drive.
Where is it? The location of your ignition coil depends on the make and model of your vehicle. One common location is attached to the spark plugs on top of the engine block.
Normally, there’s one ignition coil for each cylinder. It’s a tube-shaped part composed of a laminated iron core wrapped in two coils of copper wire. The coil is either connected directly to the spark plug, or it sits nearby and is connected with a short high voltage wire.
Modern engines no longer have distributors. Instead, the powertrain control module tells each coil when to fire it's spark plug. The ignition coil operates on the principles of electromagnetic induction. Here's a simplified breakdown of the process:
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Low Voltage Input: When you turn the key, a low-voltage current from the battery flows through the primary winding of the ignition coil.
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Magnetic Field Buildup: As the current flows through the primary winding, it creates a magnetic field around the coil.
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Interrupted Flow: The flow of current is then abruptly interrupted by the breaker points or electronic control module.
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High Voltage Output: This interruption creates a high-voltage current in the secondary winding of the ignition coil. This high voltage is transferred to the spark plug, creating a spark that ignites the fuel in the engine.
Car batteries only produce 12 volts, which isn't enough voltage for the spark plugs to make a spark. Spark plugs need anywhere from 12,000 volts to 45,000 volts to work properly. That’s why every car with an internal combustion engine has an ignition coil. 20 or 30 years ago, vehicles only had one coil that fired all of the spark plugs. Modern vehicles use one coil per cylinder. This allows for better fuel economy, reduced emissions, and longer plug life. Such statements are the recognition of the importance of the ignition coil, if it fails the car's mechanism fails, it is recommended to be attentive to the optimal work of this part and if it fails to make an immediate change. We must recognize that finding the right part for your car is not easy but not impossible, these parts in their originality have a long life, so do not forget to keep that ideal to give our car great vitality.
A new part that is not the right one for your car can cause even greater damage, Carpartmall recommends you to use the original parts for your car to guarantee excellent performance. Our store can offer you to find the part, immediate availability, responsible delivery, great discounts, among others. All this, also adjusting to your pocket and your requirements.
Understanding the different types of ignition coils can be incredibly helpful, especially when it comes to maintaining your vehicle
or diagnosing potential problems.
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Canister-style coils: Conventional ignition coils, often referred to as canister-style coils, were very common in older vehicles. The design of these coils is quite simple: A metal canister houses the primary and secondary windings. They typically sit outside the engine and are wired to a distributor, which then takes on the responsibility of distributing the high voltage from the coil to the spark plugs. Despite their simplicity, conventional ignition coils are known for their durability and reliability.
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Distributorless ignition system (DIS) coils: As technology advanced, so did ignition coils. Enter the distributorless ignition system (DIS) coils. These coils represent a significant step forward in ignition technology. Instead of relying on a distributor, DIS coils are usually mounted directly on or near the spark plugs. Each coil is tasked with supplying high voltage to a specific spark plug. This design allows for more precise timing of spark production for each cylinder, thanks to the use of sensors. The result is improved ignition performance and efficiency over conventional coils.
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Coil-on-plug (COP) ignition coils: Taking the concept of DIS coils a notch higher, we have the coil-on-plug (COP) ignition coils. In a COP system, each cylinder gets its own personal ignition coil, which is mounted directly on the spark plug. This setup eliminates the need for spark plug wires, allowing for even more precise and efficient ignition. COP ignition coils provide enhanced spark energy and better control over combustion. The outcomes are improved engine performance and reduced emissions.
- What happens when the ignition coil fails?
If one of the coils does not work, it causes that one of the spark plugs does not ignite, therefore the engine will work hard to obtain the power it needs. Among the usual problems that occur in the car given this failure, are the following:
- Backfiring
- Stalling
- Decreased fuel economy
- A rough idle
- A loss in power and acceleration
Neglecting to replace a bad ignition coil can lead to long term damage to the engine and exhaust system. Also, poor fuel economy can easily eat up more money than the repair costs. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to the symptoms of ignition coil failure and replace it as soon as possible.
How can you tell if your ignition coil is failing and needs attention? Here are some common signs:
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The chech engine lightis on: If it illuminates, it could be indicating a problem with your ignition coil.
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The engine misfires: Should your ignition coil begin to fail, it might fail to supply adequate voltage to the spark plugs, resulting in misfires.
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Starts are difficult: When spark plugs aren’t receiving enough power to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the engine, your vehicle will have a hard time starting.
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Fuel economy decreases: A failing ignition coil can disrupt the balance of fuel consumption and power generation, leading to less-than-optimal fuel economy.
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Power begins to lag: A bad ignition coil might not supply enough power to the spark plugs, resulting in reduced engine performance.
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The engine backfires: This might indicate a faulty ignition coil failing to ignite the fuel in the combustion chamber adequately.
- How to replace an ignition coil in the car
Replacing an ignition coil is very easy, you can do it from the comfort of your home, having a socket wrench you can perform this process. First of all, you must get your original ignition coil as recommended (OEM) and in our store CARPARTMALL is very easy to get it with prices that will surprise you and will help you with the problem that your car has without causing problems with your economy, on the contrary it will help you. Look for the correct model of the part for your car in our inventory, among the most requested you can see the following:
If you already have the part, proceed to replace the part with the one that currently causes failures in your car, we invite you to follow the following steps:
- Open your hood.
- Remove the plastic cover from the engine (if there’s one).
- Disconnect the battery.
- Unscrew the screw(s) holding the bad ignition coil in place.
- Unplug both ends of the ignition coil and then gently pull it out.
- Install the new ignition coil in the reverse order.
On average, a well-maintained ignition coil should last around 100,000 miles. However, this can vary depending on factors like your driving habits, vehicle make and model, and even the climate you live in. It’s important to remember that preventive maintenance is always better than reactive repairs. Regular check-ups can assist in identifying potential issues before they develop into more severe (and expensive) complications. So, if your check engine light has been flickering or your engine is misfiring, it’s best to schedule a visit to your machanic sooner rather than later.
Understanding your vehicle, including the vital role of the ignition coil, ensures smooth and efficient driving. However, even with impeccable maintenance, unforeseen issues can arise. Having the right auto insurance is key to protecting your car from unexpected repair costs and other road-related incidents. It not only gives you peace of mind but also helps to ensure that you get back on the road without worrying about financial implications.
Location: In older cars, the ignition coil is located near a mechanical distributor. However, most modern cars have an electronic ignition. With electronic ignition, the coils, also known as coil packs, are attached to each spark plug. This arrangement helps to optimize the power and timing of the spark and maximize engine performance.
Ignition Coil Lifespan: The lifespan of an ignition coil can vary depending on factors such as driving conditions, maintenance, and the quality of the coil itself. In general, an ignition coil should last more than 100,000 miles. However, premature failure can occur due to issues like overheating, electrical problems, or wear and tear. Regular vehicle maintenance, including routine inspection of the ignition system, can help identify potential issues before they escalate.
Ignition coils are necessary for igniting and maintaining the spark needed for the combustion process in a combustion engine. They ensure the engine runs smoothly, guaranteeing optimal performance. The function of an ignition coil includes:
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Spark Generation: The primary function of an ignition coil pack is to generate the spark that the engine needs for internal combustion, i.e., air-fuel mixture in the engine cylinders. The ignition starts the process, powering up the engine. Efficient Combustion: Not only does a spark plug coil start a vehicle and ignite the combustion process, but it also powers and maintains it for the efficient running of the engine. It ensures solid and consistent sparks in the spark plug. This, in turn, maximizes performance and fuel efficiency.
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Engine Performance: Coils ignition maintains an engine’s power output and overall performance. Steadily ensuring adequate combustion, they help engines function optimally without mishaps. A good ignition coil reduces instances of misfires and rough idling, ensuring that the engine lasts long.
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Maintenance And Replacement: Many things can go wrong with an engine. However, little maintenance like the ones done on the coil pack can help prevent greater mishaps. Ignition coils don’t stay forever. They can wear out due to use, heat, and vibrations, among others.
Regular checking, maintenance, and replacement of coil packs can help save the life of an engine. Also, you can detect other problems while maintaining ignition coils, pointing them to other problems.
There are various types of ignition coils. These spark plug coils are differentiated based on the winding and cooling. They all have different features, offering various advantages.
- Oil-Filled Ignition Coils: They are the traditional ignition coil with primary and secondary windings around an iron ore. They are usually heavier than the newer models but are also more reliable. They are usually immersed in oil for insulation and cooling.
- Epoxy-Filled Ignition Coil: This design offers better protection against moisture as it uses epoxy resin to encapsulate the winding and core. They are more compact and lighter than the oil-filled ignition, and they are more resistant to vibration and corrosion, making them more suitable for harsh weather.
- Performance Coils: High-performance ignition coils are somehow personalized. They use specialized materials to deliver more robust and more persistent sparks. These coils use high-quality materials for their cores and windings, making them better and more durable.
- Electronic Ignition Coils: Some modern vehicles have placed ignition powering on their electronic system. Using the engine’s control unit, they offer more precise and timed sparks. These coils are more advanced and reliable.
- Are Ignition Coils Only For Automobiles?
No, ignition coils are not only for mobiles. Although it is no news that the mobile industry takes the lion's share in using ignition coils, other combustion engines also enjoy the spark an infinity coil brings. Other applications of ignition coils include the following below:
- Generators: Some generators rely on internal combustion engines. These include small generators and some industrial generators. These generators use ignition coils to generate the high-voltage spark the ignition engine needs to ignite the air-fuel mixture for proper functioning.
- Boats And Marine Engines: Many boats and marine engines have internal combustion engines. These engines use ignition coils to function correctly.
- Other Small Engines: Many small engines, ranging from the ones we use at home, like lawnmowers, to industrial ones, like chainsaws, have an internal combustion engine. These engines use ignition coils to generate the spark they need to function.
Discover the Best Prices on Genuine Ignition Coil OEM Parts at Our Online Store.
Our ignition coil are totally original parts, just search in our online store the part according to the make and model corresponding to your vehicle, and find the one that fits your needs. We are also leaders in the market of car parts sales, with a reputation recognized over time. Therefore, we recommend you to enter our website; if you do not know the interface to make a purchase you can ask with confidence in our inbox or instant messaging, you can also enter our social networks and watch the guide to make a purchase, it's very simple.
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We can guarantee you an excellent service, Car Part Mall is characterized by giving an answer to any of your needs, do not hesitate to contact us.
- Frequently Asked Questions about Ignition Coils
What are the signs of a failing ignition? Common signs of failing ignition include poor fuel efficiency, rough idling, difficulty starting the vehicle, and engine misfires. Also, a failing ignition can sometimes cause the illumination of the check lights on the dashboard.
Can I test an ignition coil before purchase? Yes, you can test an ignition coil before purchase. You can use a multimeter to measure the resistance, checking if the coil works perfectly. Also, the multimeter can check for any shorts or irregularities, ensuring you buy only the best coil. Furthermore, automotive shops have specialized testing equipment for ignition coils that can give you more comprehensive answers about them.
Can a bad ignition coil cause other damages? Yes, a bad ignition coil can cause other problems. For instance, a bad ignition coil can cause a misfire, which in turn causes damage to other engine components like the oxygen sensor or catalytic converter.
Do all engines use the same ignition coils? No, there are different types of ignition coils to serve the various engines available. These varieties have different features, making them suitable for variable operations. Therefore, ensure that you learn about ignition coils and choose the one that best suits your engine.
