Weak Ignition Coil Symptoms (9 Things To Be Aware Of)

The primary function of an ignition coil or spark coil is to ignite a spark inside the spark plugs. A 12-volt current can pass through the battery in any car.

But, this is insufficient to ignite the spark plugs and create an ignition with the fuel line, enabling the engine to run. Let’s dive into a deeper understanding of weak ignition coil symptoms!

Weak Ignition Coil Symptoms


1. Backfiring From The Exhaust System

Backfiring is common in the early stages of an ignition coil’s failure.

That said, a loud backfire can occur when unused fuel accumulates in the combustion cylinders and exits through your vehicle’s exhaust pipe.

So, having this examined as soon as possible is critical because it can be expensive to fix if left unchecked.

Further, the black smoke from the trunk or the smell of fuel in the emitting smoke indicates a problem with your vehicle’s ignition coils.

2. Increased Fuel Consumption

Another reason for weak ignition coils could be that your vehicle travels significantly fewer miles than usual.

The primary function of the spark plugs is to ignite the gas within the gas lines, but if there is a problem with the coils, this might result in gas waste.

However, make sure that the distinction is noticeable. Gas prices rise over time, so you may start putting much less fuel than before.

3. High Hydrocarbon Emissions

Having your vehicle fixed regularly can help detect problems before they become significant.

When checking your vehicle’s effectiveness, your car expert may detect a high hydrocarbon emission from your vehicle’s tailpipe.

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That said, it can indicate various problems, including a faulty ignition coil.

3. Engine Difficulties

If your car starts, but there’s no engine power, spark, or any kind of movement, a damaged ignition coil could be the cause of this problem.

Of course, this problem can cause your engine to ignite but not spark enough to continue to start. In certain instances, the engine will start but immediately shut down.

4. Engine Misfiring And Stalling

Engine Misfiring And Stalling

Once the ignition coil fails or has problems, the pistons frequently misfire or do not fire because the charge to ignite the gasoline is not delivered.

Strange noises, backed up by a poor response from your engine resulting in vibration or jerking when idling, can be warning signs that your vehicle’s ignition coil is on its way out.

Or worse, this can cause the car to shut down entirely and stall when you step on the gas.

5. Check Engine Light

Even though the check engine light will immediately notify you of many symptoms, one of which may be a defective or damaged ignition coil.

With that, you have a few options in this case. First, you can visit a technician who could conduct an OBD-II inspection. Or, you can purchase a scanner to verify the codes yourself.

Further, P0300 to P0312 imply misfiring that could be caused by an ignition coil problem, whereas P0350 to P0362 are secured on all mechanisms to indicate ignition coil problems.

6. No-Start Engine Issue

When your vehicle only has one ignition coil, it may be unable to start.

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So, if the battery is fully charged, and all you hear when you turn the key or press the button is a snapping sound, you may have a faulty ignition coil.

Also, once the spark plugs do not receive the necessary charge, the engine will not start properly.

7. Faulty Spark Plugs

If your spark plugs are defective or damaged, they can frequently draw more electricity from the vehicle’s engine than is generally expected.

As a result, it constantly puts too much tension on the ignition coil, causing it to wear out over time. If you have spark plug problems, you should check the ignition coil simultaneously.

8. Oil Over Spilling

The massive amounts of charge currently being converted inside the ignition coil generate heat. Whenever the part is operating normally, the oil typically aids in the removal of thermal energy.

However, if the coil is broken, it can cause overheating, which will ultimately crack the housing and cause oil to flow out of the component.

To learn more, you can also read our posts on Chevy bad alternator symptoms, car AC compressor symptoms, and bad wheel-bearing symptoms.

Conclusion

Hopefully, you now have a deeper understanding of your vehicle’s performance and why it may even malfunction.

You must recognize these warning signs as soon as possible because diagnosing failing coils could help other engine parts and bring your vehicle back to peak performance.

On the other hand, ignoring these signs will lead to more problems and spending more on your car than what may be necessary.

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