It’s a common problem that crops up in cars of all brands and makes. Over time, the ignition coil can deteriorate and cause your car to not start. As a result, you may find yourself stranded on the side of the road or at the mercy of a tow truck. In this blog post, we will show you how to check a car ignition coil and determine if it’s needs to be replaced. From there, you can get started on fixing the issue before it becomes worse.
How to Check A Car Ignition Coil
When you’re checking your car’s ignition coil, you want to make sure that it’s functioning properly. To do this, turn your car’s key in the “off” position and check for spark at the plug wires. If there’s no spark, then your ignition coil is probably malfunctioning and needs to be replaced.
What to Look for when Checking A Car Ignition Coil
When checking your car’s ignition coil, be sure to start the engine and allow it to idle for a few minutes. A weak or dead coil can cause your car to not start. Some other signs that your ignition coil may be failing are a clicking noise when you turn the key in the ignition, or trouble starting the car after it has been running for a while. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is best to have your car serviced by a mechanic.
How to Fix a Broken Car Ignition Coil
If your car won’t start, there’s a good chance it has a broken ignition coil. This component is usually easy to replace, and can solve the problem sooner rather than later. Here’s how to fix a broken car ignition coil:
1. Remove the battery cable from the car’s battery.
2.Remove the fuse panel cover (if present) and unscrew the six headlight light bulbs.
3.Disconnect both lead wires from the coil pack connector.
4. Remove the coil pack by gently prying it off of its mountings and disconnecting the three connectors.*
5. Clean all surfaces of corrosion and debris with a mild detergent solution, then dry completely before re-installation.
6. Apply new lead wire insulation to both ends of each lead wire, then twist each end tightly enough to form a secure connection but not so tight as to damage the wires themselves. Reconnect the three connector terminals on the coil pack and screw it back onto its mountings.*