Function of Coil in Car Engine

Introduction

The ignition coil is a crucial component of a car’s engine. It is responsible for converting the low-voltage current from the battery into a high-voltage current that is used to create a spark across the spark plugs. This spark ignites the air-fuel mixture in the cylinders, which in turn powers the engine.

How the Ignition Coil Works

The ignition coil consists of two coils of wire: a primary coil and a secondary coil. The primary coil is connected to the battery, and the secondary coil is connected to the spark plugs. When the ignition switch is turned on, current flows through the primary coil. This creates a magnetic field around the primary coil.

The magnetic field around the primary coil induces a current in the secondary coil. The current in the secondary coil is much higher than the current in the primary coil. This is because the secondary coil has more turns of wire than the primary coil.

The high-voltage current in the secondary coil flows through the spark plug wires and to the spark plugs. The spark plugs create a spark across the gap between the center electrode and the ground electrode. This spark ignites the air-fuel mixture in the cylinders, which in turn powers the engine.

Types of Ignition Coils

There are two main types of ignition coils: conventional ignition coils and coil-on-plug ignition coils. Conventional ignition coils are mounted on the engine and have a single wire that connects to the distributor cap. The distributor cap then distributes the high-voltage current to the spark plugs.

Coil-on-plug ignition coils are mounted directly on the spark plugs. This eliminates the need for a distributor cap and spark plug wires. Coil-on-plug ignition coils are more efficient than conventional ignition coils and can provide a more powerful spark.

Symptoms of a Bad Ignition Coil

There are several symptoms that can indicate a bad ignition coil. These symptoms include:

* Engine misfires
* Hard starting
* Rough idling
* Reduced power
* Increased fuel consumption

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to have your ignition coil checked by a qualified mechanic.

How to Replace an Ignition Coil

Replacing an ignition coil is a relatively simple procedure. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Here are the general steps involved in replacing an ignition coil:

1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Locate the ignition coil.
3. Disconnect the electrical connectors from the ignition coil.
4. Remove the bolts that hold the ignition coil in place.
5. Remove the ignition coil.
6. Install the new ignition coil.
7. Tighten the bolts that hold the ignition coil in place.
8. Connect the electrical connectors to the ignition coil.
9. Connect the negative battery terminal.
10. Start the engine and check for proper operation.

Conclusion

If you experience any of the symptoms of a bad ignition coil, it is important to have your ignition coil checked by a qualified mechanic. Replacing an ignition coil is a relatively simple procedure, but it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.