How do you check a ignition coil? As an essential component of the ignition system in a vehicle, the ignition coil plays a crucial role in converting low-voltage electrical current into high-voltage current, which is necessary for the spark plug to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine. Over time, ignition coils can become faulty, leading to issues such as engine misfires, reduced power, and in some cases, engine failure. In this article, we will guide you through the process of checking your ignition coil to ensure it is functioning properly and to prevent any potential problems down the line.
Before diving into the inspection process, it is important to have the necessary tools and equipment at hand. You will need a multimeter, a socket set, and a replacement ignition coil if necessary. Once you have gathered all the required tools, follow these steps to check your ignition coil:
1.
Identify the ignition coil: Locate the ignition coil on your vehicle. It is usually mounted to the engine block or firewall and connected to the engine and the distributor or coil pack. The coil is typically cylindrical in shape and can be identified by its two large terminals, one for the battery and the other for the spark plug wires.
2.
Remove the ignition coil: Using a socket set, carefully remove the mounting bolts and disconnect the ignition coil from the engine and the spark plug wires. Be sure to keep track of any wiring or brackets that may be attached to the coil for easy reinstallation later on.
3.
Check for visible damage: Visually inspect the ignition coil for any signs of damage, such as cracks, corrosion, or loose connections. Any visible damage may indicate a failing coil that needs to be replaced.
4.
Use a multimeter to test the primary winding: Connect the multimeter leads to the primary winding terminals of the ignition coil. Set the multimeter to ohms and check the resistance. The resistance should be within the manufacturer’s specifications, which can typically be found in the vehicle’s service manual or by consulting the coil’s specifications. If the resistance is outside the acceptable range, the coil may be faulty and need to be replaced.
5.
Test the secondary winding: To test the secondary winding, connect the multimeter leads to the primary winding terminals again. Set the multimeter to ohms and measure the resistance. Then, connect the multimeter leads to the secondary winding terminals. The resistance should be significantly higher than the primary winding resistance. If the resistance is too low or too high, the coil may be faulty.
6.
Perform a spark test: Connect the multimeter leads to the secondary winding terminals and set the multimeter to ohms. Remove the spark plug wire from the spark plug and connect the multimeter leads to the spark plug terminal. Crank the engine and observe the multimeter reading. If the coil is functioning properly, you should see a high voltage reading (typically around 12,000 to 15,000 volts). If the reading is too low or non-existent, the coil may be faulty.
In conclusion, checking your ignition coil is an essential part of maintaining your vehicle’s ignition system. By following these steps, you can determine if your coil is functioning properly and take the necessary steps to replace it if needed. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of faulty ignition coils can help prevent costly repairs and ensure smooth operation of your vehicle’s engine.
