7 Signs of a Faulty Ignition Coil

1. Illuminated Engine Light 

Modern vehicles are equipped with onboard diagnostic sensors that detect issues within various components, including the ignition system. So, if a coil is going bad, those sensors will usually activate the check engine light.

2. Misfiring Engine

When a coil fails to send the required voltage to the spark plug while you’re driving, the engine will likely backfire. Backfiring will typically cause a jerking or sputtering, especially as you attempt to increase speed. If you notice this symptom, it is very important to have your vehicle checked by a mechanic right away, as continuing to drive an automobile in this condition may do further damage.

3. Hard Starts

This is another instance where a coil is not sending enough voltage for the spark plug, except this happens when the car is being started. If your engine seems to be struggling to start, or you have to attempt starting several times, a bad coil may be to blame.

4. Decrease in Power 

If a bad coil is causing inadequate combustion, it can cause sluggish performance or hesitation when attempting to accelerate.

5. Sudden Backfires

If a faulty coil cannot supply the spark plus with enough voltage to pull fuel, sometimes the fuel will escape from the exhaust system instead and cause backfiring. Ignoring backfires can lead to severe engine damage, so it is vital to get the issue addressed as soon as possible.

6. Engine Leaks Oil

As a bad coil tries and fails over and over to transmit voltage, it can overwork itself and ultimately overheat. This overheating can break or damage the engine pipes, causing oil to leak out the cracks.

7. Increased Fuel Consumption

When a coil is faulty, it can throw off the balance of the air/fuel mix during the combustion chamber. The engine responds to this imbalance by using more fuel in attempts to make up for the missing energy.

While a coil from your vehicle’s ignition system may not seem like a major car part, this component has a very important job. From misfiring to oil leaks, a faulty coil can significantly impact how your vehicle’s engine starts and runs. If you are experiencing any of the above issues with your automobile, be sure to visit or call Lundgren Ford in Eveleth, MN today​ for repairs.

Tags: Ford Service, Lundgren Service Department, OEM Service
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