What are the symptoms of a faulty ignition coil when replacing spark plugs?
2 Answers
Replacing spark plugs with a faulty ignition coil can cause difficulty in ignition. Working principle of the ignition coil: The ignition coil, commonly known as the high-voltage ignition coil, is one of the core components of the ignition system in a gasoline engine. For the air-fuel mixture in the engine cylinder to combust, ignition energy is required. The ignition coil serves as the medium to provide this ignition energy, which is ultimately delivered through the spark plug to complete the ignition process. Precautions for using the ignition coil: Avoid exposing the ignition coil to moisture or excessive heat. Do not turn on the ignition switch when the engine is not running. Regularly inspect and clean the ignition coil to prevent short circuits.
When the ignition coil or spark plug fails, the car exhibits several noticeable symptoms. The most common issue I've observed is severe engine shaking, especially when accelerating—it feels like the car is shivering. At idle, the engine runs unevenly, accompanied by knocking or pinging sounds. The check engine light on the dashboard usually illuminates, indicating a system problem. Fuel consumption may also inexplicably increase due to insufficient spark plug ignition and poor combustion efficiency. Starting the engine can sometimes be difficult, particularly when the engine is cold. If left unaddressed, severe engine misfires may occur, potentially damaging the catalytic converter and significantly increasing repair costs. I recommend visiting a professional repair shop for diagnosis and coil replacement as soon as these signs appear to avoid roadside breakdowns. Regularly inspecting the ignition system during maintenance can prevent such issues, saving a lot of trouble.