Ignition coils are used in engine systems to increase a system’s battery voltage, which provides sufficient power to set off the spark plugs, ignite an engine’s air-fuel mixture and start the engine. High-performance vehicles utilize ignition coils to facilitate efficient, strong spark transmittal and optimize power generation. Ignition coils are crucial for an engine to run efficiently but when an engine is experiencing signs of coil failure. It is important to address faulty coil issues quickly to maintain smooth operations and prevent further damage to the engine system.
Signs of a failing ignition coil can include:
A faculty ignition coil can cause a range of symptoms such as
- Engine misfire
Without the necessary spark from the ignition coil, the air fuel mixture fails to ignite at a steady rate which leads to incomplete combustion.
- Reduced power and acceleration
Noticeably decrease in engine power and acceleration
- Poor fuel economy
When failing ignition coil misfires, the engine system may use more fuel to compensate the same power output, which leads to decreased fuel efficiency
- Engine backfiring
This happens when unburned fuel is ignited in the exhaust system and creates a loud noise.
- Rough idle
A failing coil could result in unstable, shaking or vibrating when the engine is running or engine system stopped.
- Vehicle Stalling
The engine may stop or suddenly die while idling due to disruptions caused by misfires from a faulty ignition coil.
The Impacts on Engine System
A faulty ignition coil can severely impact an engine system and lead to more serious problems if left unaddressed. Here is how faulty ignition coils affect the engine system:
Damage to catalytic converter:
Engine misfire causes unburned fuel from misfiring cylinders to enter the exhaust system and ignite within the catalytic converter. This can result in the converter overheating and sustain damage, leading to expensive repairs.
Potential engine damage:
Extended misfires and other problems caused by a failed ignition coil can affect other parts of the engine and will eventually lead to more significant engine damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of bad coil packs?
The most common signs of coil failure, includes engine misfires, rough idle, sluggish acceleration, trouble starting, and a noticeable drop in fuel economy. Other sensory cues like jerking, stalling, or engine vibration under load could be an indication that an engine’s ignition coil is failing.
Can a bad ignition coil cause a misfire?
Yes, bad ignition coil can cause a misfire in an engine. This happens when a cylinder in the engine does not ignite proper air fuel mixture, which is due to faulty ignition coil not providing enough spark.
What happens if you keep driving with a faulty coil?
Long-term risks such as reduced power and torque, increased fuel consumption, damage to spark plugs and catalytic converters, and emission system degradation.
How does a faulty ignition coil affect engine performance?
A faulty ignition coil can directly impair engine performance leading to misfires, decreased power and acceleration, rough idling and stalling. It’s important to quickly address these symptoms in order to avoid potential engine damage.
Why are SMP ignition components trusted for long-term reliability?
Our ignition coil is built with high quality, high temperature resistant materials and quality tested to ensure durability under high performance conditions.