The ignition coil is the component that ramps up the voltage of the battery charge and makes it potent enough to fire the spark plugs. It’s a small but essential part of your engine and it will undermine your car’s performance if it goes wrong. Stay alert to a faulty ignition coil with our list of signs that it’s time to contact your Porsche dealer.
Misfiring Engine
An engine misfire makes the car feel shuddery and as though it’s out of rhythm. It also leads to vibrations and rough idling when the car is stationary. This is caused when fuel fails to ignite consistently during the combustion cycle. It could be that the spark plugs are failing, but it could also mean that the charge from the battery isn’t strong enough, and the ignition coil needs replacing.
If the combustion cycle isn’t running smoothly, the engine won’t be as powerful and you’ll notice the difference in performance. If you notice that you’re stalling more frequently, or that the engine is sluggish when you press the gas pedal, it’s a good idea to get the ignition coil checked out.
Engine Backfires
An engine backfire sounds like a bang or sharp cough, and it happens when unburnt fuel ignites in the exhaust system. Backfiring can damage other parts of your car if it’s allowed to continue, so it should always be checked out. But it’s sometimes caused by the ignition coil failing to ignite the fuel in the combustion cycle, and allowing it to infiltrate the exhaust system.
Less Fuel Efficiency
If the spark plugs don’t receive enough charge to fire and fuel is allowed to escape unburned into the exhaust system, it goes to waste. This might mean that your car is giving fewer miles to the gallon, and that you’re paying more at the gas pump. If you notice that you’re having to refill your car more often, schedule an appointment to have the ignition coil looked at.
Check Engine Light
On modern cars, a malfunctioning ignition coil is sufficient to make the Check Engine signal light up on your dashboard. This is always a reason to book a diagnostic at your dealership straight away.
Hard Starts
Without an effective ignition coil, the engine might struggle to get going. This will mean that it coughs for longer and takes more time to turn over when you press the ignition switch, or that it takes a few attempts to get it going. Hard starts are wearing on other engine parts, so this is another good reason to get the ignition apparatus checked.
It depends on the age and model of the car, but ignition coils are often a relatively inexpensive and easy fix. On the other hand, ignoring these symptoms could lead to further problems for your vehicle down the line, so it’s always better to take prompt action. For the best advice and most efficient service, contact us at Porsche Beachwood to keep your engine in optimal condition.
Connect with us
