What Are the Common Faults in the Ignition System?
3 Answers
Common faults in the ignition system include spark plug failure, delayed ignition, and premature ignition. Below is a partial introduction to these common faults: Spark Plug Failure: The end, electrode, and spark plug shell are often covered with a thick layer of soft, black-gray powdery deposits. The fault symptom is that the insulator end, electrode, and spark plug shell are covered with engine oil. Delayed Ignition: The fault symptoms include a heavy sound from the muffler, backfire in the carburetor during rapid acceleration, high engine coolant temperature, and weak vehicle performance. If the ignition angle is incorrect, it can be adjusted to the specified value. Premature Ignition: The fault symptoms include unstable idle operation and easy stalling; during acceleration, the engine produces severe knocking sounds.
Over the years of repairing cars, I've seen quite a few ignition failures. The most common issue is with the spark plugs—either too much carbon buildup preventing ignition, or gaps that are too large or too small, causing hard starts and rough idling. Ignition coils are also prone to failure, especially in humid weather when poor insulation leads to jerking during acceleration. Wiring problems, like aging, broken wires or loose connections, can interrupt the current flow. Faulty crankshaft position sensors are another headache—when the signal is off, the engine won't fire at the right time. Sometimes, low battery voltage can indirectly affect ignition, requiring a recharge or wiring check. If you encounter these issues, I recommend not pushing through but seeking professional repair promptly to avoid stalling on the road. For maintenance, regularly replacing spark plugs and cleaning wiring can save a lot of trouble.
Having driven for over a decade, the most common ignition issue I've encountered is aging spark plugs. I remember last summer when my car would shudder violently upon starting, but replacing the spark plugs fixed it immediately. When the ignition coil fails, the engine idles roughly and lacks power when accelerating. Loose wiring connections causing poor contact often trigger the persistent engine warning light. A weak battery with insufficient voltage can also lead to ignition failure. Problems with the crankshaft position sensor result in noticeable hesitation during acceleration. Whenever I face such situations, I first check if the spark plugs are carbon-fouled or use a multimeter to test the coil voltage. I handle what I can diagnose myself, but for complex issues, I always prioritize safety by visiting a repair shop without delay.
