The ignition coil is a key component of your car’s ignition system. It draws voltage from the car’s battery and amplifies it. This high voltage is then transmitted to the spark plugs for starring the engine.
You should regularly check the ignition coil and spark plugs for damage. The article discusses whether you should replace ignition coil with spark plugs:
Why Ignition Coil Fail?
Ignition coil generally lasts up to 100,000 miles or more.
They are subject to high heat that can damage them.
There can also be moisture buildup due to leaking engine oil and other fluids on the coil windings which can reduce their lifespan. Worn out and faulty spark plugs can also put excessive pressure on the ignition coil, causing damage to them. You should check the ignition coil regularly to ensure they are in good working condition.
Common Symptoms of a Failing Ignition Coil
A faulty ignition coil will not provide enough power to the spark plugs to start the engine. Hence, you will find it difficult to start your car’s engine smoothly. You can experience intermittent or regular engine misfires.
Driving a car with a damaged ignition coil can feel sluggish. You will not get enough power and control. The car will likely vibrate and stall regularly.
Another common symptom of a faulty ignition coil is exhaust backfire. The fuel will not be properly combusted with a faulty ignition coil. The unburnt fuel particles will enter the exhaust pipe with a high energy charge.
This will be released through the exhaust in the form of loud noise. Regular backfire can damage other parts of the car’s exhaust system.
The fuel economy of your car will also drop due to a damaged ignition coil. The car will inject more fuel to compensate for the lack of power, thereby reducing fuel efficiency.
Should the Spark Plugs be Replaced with Ignition Coil?
Spark plugs are the most common spare parts that should be replaced with the ignition coil. Faulty spark plugs can cause undue wear and tear on the ignition coil and damage them further.
Over time, the gap between the central electrode and the ground electrode decreases. This causes the potency of the spark to reduce.
Generally, spark plugs last less than their projected lifespan as the lifespan is projected based on ideal engine and driving conditions that are seldom realized in real-life driving situations.
Changing the spark plugs along with the ignition coil is a good idea. It can provide a better and smoother ignition system working for your car.