If you’re like most drivers, you probably take for granted the fact that your car’s ignition coil helps your engine start. But if you’re like some drivers who have reported problems with their cars stalling after service work was done on their ignitions, you might want to think twice before you let someone do any more work on your car.
What is an Ignition Coil and why is it important?
An ignition coil is a small, often hidden component of your car’s engine that helps to start the engine. When you turn the key in the ignition, the coil sends an electrical current through the spark plugs to ignite the air/fuel mixture. If your coil is damaged or not working properly, your car may not start. In some cases, a stalled car may also indicate a defective coil.
Causes of a stalled car and what to do if it happens
There are many possible causes of a stalled car, and it’s often difficult to determine the specific cause. In general, there are some things you can do to try to fix the problem:
1. Check the engine oil level. If it’s low, add oil.
2. Check the air pressure in the tires. If it’s low, inflate them.
3. Check the brakes. If they’re not working properly, repair or replace them.
4. Check for any mechanical problems with the car, such as a loose battery or blown fuse.
5. Clear any obstructions from the car’s air intake, such as leaves or debris on the windshield.
How to test if your ignition coil is bad
If your car stalls when you try to start it, there’s a good chance your ignition coil is bad. A faulty coil can cause poor starting, hesitation, and even a complete car stall. If you’re not sure if your coil is the problem, follow these steps to test it:
1. Remove the spark plugs and disconnect the battery.
2. Connect an ohmmeter between the black (negative) lead on the spark plug and any metal part on the engine (vent tube, fan shroud, or water pump). The reading should be around 0.01 ohms.
3. Replace the spark plugs and reconnect the battery. Start the engine and check for resistance again. If it’s still low, your coil is probably bad and needs to be replaced.
How to replace an ignition coil on a car
If your car stalls while driving, there’s a good chance your ignition coil is the culprit. In this article, we’ll show you how to replace an ignition coil on a car, and help you avoid future stalls.
When your car stalls, the problem is most likely with the ignition coil. This small device converts electrical energy into heat, which turns the engine over. On most cars, the ignition coil is located under the hood near the engine. If it’s defective or not working properly, the electrical energy can’t turn the engine over properly and the car will stall.
To replace an ignition coil on a car, follow these steps:
1) Disconnect the battery cables and remove the hood panel. On some cars, you may need to remove additional panels to get to the ignition coil.
2) Locate the spark plug wire(s) that lead from the distributor cap to the spark plugs. The spark plugs are usually numbered 1-6 from left to right. Unplug each spark plug wire by gently pulling on it until it pops out of its socket. Be careful not to pinch any of the wires in