Car Ignition Coils and Performance: How They Fail and What You Can Do About It

Car Ignition Coils and Performance: How They Fail and What You Can Do About It

The ignition system in your car is crucial for maintaining its performance. It's responsible for starting the engine and ensuring that it runs smoothly. One of the most important components of this system is the ignition coil, which transforms the low voltage from the battery into the high voltage required to ignite the fuel and air mixture in the engine's cylinders. Ignition coils play a significant role in your car's performance, and if they fail, your car's overall performance can suffer.
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In this article, we'll delve deeper into how ignition coils work, why they can fail, and what you can do to ensure that your car runs smoothly.

Understanding How Ignition Coils Work
Ignition coils are transformers that are responsible for amplifying the voltage from the battery, which is needed to create a spark that ignites the fuel and air mixture in the engine. The low voltage from the battery flows through the primary winding of the coil, which creates a magnetic field. When the voltage is cut off, the magnetic field collapses, inducing a high voltage in the secondary winding of the coil. This high voltage is then sent to the spark plugs, which ignite the fuel and air mixture in the cylinders.

Common Reasons for Ignition Coil Failure
Several factors can cause ignition coils to fail, including:

1. Age and Wear: Over time, ignition coils can deteriorate due to age and usage. The windings inside the coil can become damaged or corroded, leading to failure.
2. Overheating: Ignition coils can overheat if they're exposed to high temperatures for prolonged periods. This can be caused by a faulty cooling system or an engine that's running too hot.
3. Moisture: Moisture can also cause ignition coils to fail, as it can damage the electrical components inside the coil. This is particularly common in vehicles that are driven in wet or humid conditions.
4. Voltage Surges: Voltage surges can occur if there is a fault in the car's electrical system, which can cause the ignition coils to fail. This can also be caused by a faulty battery or alternator.​​

Signs of Failing Ignition Coils
It's important to be able to recognize the signs of failing ignition coils, including:

1. Misfires: When one or more ignition coils fail, misfires can occur, leading to poor fuel economy, reduced power, and increased emissions.
2. Hard Starting: If your car is having difficulty starting, it could be a sign that the ignition coils are failing. This is because the spark plugs may not be receiving enough voltage to ignite the fuel and air mixture in the cylinders.
3. Reduced Power: If your car isn't performing as well as it used to, it could be a sign that the ignition coils are failing. This can cause reduced acceleration, poor fuel economy, and increased emissions.​

What to Do About Failing Ignition Coils
If you suspect that your ignition coils are failing, it's important to take action. You should have them checked by a qualified mechanic who can diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action. In many cases, the ignition coils will need to be replaced, which can be a relatively straightforward process.

Ignition coils are a vital component of your car's ignition system, and if they fail, your car's performance can be severely impacted. By understanding how ignition coils work, what causes them to fail, and how to recognize the signs of failing ignition coils, you can take proactive steps to ensure that your car runs smoothly and efficiently. If you suspect that your ignition coils are failing, don't hesitate to seek.

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