A failing or faulty ignition coil can manifest through various signs and symptoms, indicating potential issues with engine performance and ignition system operation. Here are some common signs of a failing or faulty ignition coil:
Engine Misfires: One of the primary symptoms of a failing ignition coil is engine misfires. Misfires occur when the spark plugs fail to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine cylinders at the right time or fail to ignite it altogether. You may experience rough idling, stumbling, hesitation, or lack of power during acceleration.
Decreased Engine Performance: A failing ignition coil can lead to decreased engine power and overall performance. The engine may feel sluggish, lack responsiveness, or exhibit poor acceleration, especially under load or at higher speeds.
Check Engine Light (CEL) Illumination: When the engine control unit (ECU) detects ignition system faults or misfires, it may trigger the check engine light (CEL) to illuminate on the dashboard. The CEL may display specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to ignition coil failure or misfire detection.
Hard Starting or No-Start Conditions: A faulty ignition coil can result in difficulty starting the engine or no-start conditions, especially when the engine is cold or after prolonged periods of inactivity. You may hear the engine cranking without successfully firing up.
Engine Stalling: In severe cases, a failing ignition coil can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly, especially when idling or decelerating. If the ignition coil fails to provide the necessary spark to ignite the air-fuel mixture, the engine may shut down abruptly.
Increased Fuel Consumption: A failing ignition coil can lead to inefficient combustion of the air-fuel mixture, resulting in increased fuel consumption and decreased fuel efficiency. You may notice a decrease in miles per gallon (MPG) and more frequent visits to the fuel pump.
Engine Vibrations or Rough Idle: Faulty ignition coils can cause engine vibrations or rough idling, which may be noticeable inside the cabin. The engine may feel rough or shaky when idling, and vibrations may increase during acceleration or under load.
Excessive Exhaust Emissions: A failing ignition coil can contribute to incomplete combustion of the air-fuel mixture, leading to increased levels of hydrocarbons (HC) and other pollutants in the vehicle's exhaust emissions.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic or technician to diagnose and address any potential issues with the ignition system or ignition coils. Ignition coil problems should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage to the engine and ensure reliable operation of the vehicle.