The car ignition system is one of the cores of the normal operation of every car, and the ignition coil, as an important part of it, plays a vital role. Whether it is a traditional internal combustion engine or a modern high-efficiency engine, the role of the ignition coil cannot be ignored. It is responsible for converting the low voltage provided by the car battery into a high voltage, which in turn ignites the fuel mixture in the engine to ensure that the engine starts smoothly and continues to run.
With the continuous advancement of automobile technology, the design and function of the ignition coil have also undergone many innovations. The ignition coils currently on the market can be mainly divided into the following types:
This system uses a single ignition coil to distribute high voltage electricity to different cylinders through a distributor. This type of ignition system is more common in older models, but with the development of technology, it has gradually been replaced by more efficient systems.
This ignition system has an independent ignition coil on each cylinder, which is directly installed on the spark plug to ensure that each cylinder has sufficient high voltage electricity. The COP system provides more precise ignition control and is common in modern cars.

The DIS system does not have a distributor, but directly controls the operation of each ignition coil through an electronic control unit (ECU). The current and timing of each ignition coil are precisely regulated, which improves ignition efficiency and fuel economy.
This ignition coil integrates two secondary windings in one housing, which can provide ignition current for two cylinders respectively. It has been used in some four-cylinder engines, taking into account the advantages of compact structure and high efficiency.
The ignition coil is a very strong and durable component, but during long-term use, it may encounter some problems that affect the normal operation of the car. The following are common ignition coil failures and their manifestations:
When the ignition coil fails, it may not provide enough voltage to the spark plug, resulting in difficulty or complete failure to start the engine.
Improper operation of the ignition coil may cause incomplete ignition of some cylinders, causing problems such as unstable engine idle speed and vibration.
When the ignition coil cannot produce a stable spark, the combustion efficiency decreases, the vehicle's acceleration performance may become sluggish, and even lack of power at high speeds.
Ignition system failures usually trigger the vehicle's fault indicator light, especially the engine fault light (Check Engine Light) is often lit due to ignition coil failure.
Inefficient ignition leads to incomplete combustion of fuel, which increases the vehicle's fuel consumption.
In order to keep the ignition system in good working condition, it is very important to check the ignition coil regularly. Here are some inspection and maintenance suggestions:
The spark plug is the output end of the ignition system, so if you find a problem with the ignition coil, check the status of the spark plug first. Spark plugs that are excessively worn or carbonized may affect the ignition effect.
Most modern cars are equipped with an OBD-II diagnostic interface, which can read fault codes through a scanning tool to detect whether there is a problem with the ignition coil.
The resistance value of the ignition coil can be detected using a multimeter. If the resistance value is abnormal, it may indicate that there is a fault in the internal winding of the ignition coil.
The service life of the ignition coil is generally around 100,000 kilometers. After exceeding this distance, it is recommended to replace it regularly. Especially when an ignition system fault is found, the faulty parts should be replaced in time.
The ignition coil and related components should be kept clean to avoid the accumulation of debris such as dust and oil, which may affect the ignition effect.
Although the ignition coil is a small component in the automotive electrical system, its role is crucial. As the "fire" that ignites the fuel, the ignition coil directly affects the engine performance, fuel efficiency and the driving experience of the vehicle. With the continuous innovation of automobile technology, the design of ignition coils is also constantly evolving. The ignition system of modern cars is more precise and efficient, providing drivers with a smoother driving experience. Through regular maintenance and proper use, we can extend the service life of the ignition coil and ensure that the car always maintains the best operating condition.