Can only one ignition coil be replaced?
2 Answers
Only one ignition coil can be replaced. The ignition coil is a device that provides ignition energy. The method to replace the ignition coil is as follows: 1. Open the ignition coil cover on top of the engine; 2. Remove the ignition coil fixing screws; 3. Disconnect the ignition coil power plug and remove the old ignition coil to complete the replacement. The working principle of the ignition coil is to convert the low-voltage electricity from the power source into high-voltage electricity, which is then transformed into a high-voltage spark by the spark plug to ignite the combustible gas mixture. Precautions for using the ignition coil include: 1. Prevent the ignition coil from overheating or getting damp; 2. Turn off the ignition switch when the engine is not running; 3. Check, clean, and tighten the wiring connections to avoid short circuits or grounding.
Last time at the shop, I came across an old Golf with a failed ignition coil on the third cylinder. The owner asked if just the faulty one could be replaced. I said it depends on the engine's condition. If the car has only done 50,000 to 60,000 kilometers and the other coils show no cracks or leakage, replacing just one can indeed save money. However, it must be the same brand and model—don’t mix and match to save a few bucks. If the new coil’s resistance is too different, it could actually accelerate wear. Here’s the key—after replacement, you must take it for a test drive, especially on uphill sections, and keep an eye on the dashboard. If the engine light flashes again, chances are the other coils are nearing their end too. That customer of mine ended up replacing just one coil, and it’s been running smoothly for three months now.
