What Does the Coil Do in a Car Engine?
Introduction
The coil is an essential component of a car’s ignition system. It is responsible for converting the low-voltage current from the battery into a high-voltage current that is needed to create a spark at the spark plugs. This spark ignites the air-fuel mixture in the cylinders, which in turn powers the engine.
How a Coil Works
The coil consists of two windings of wire: a primary winding and a secondary winding. The primary winding is connected to the battery, while the secondary winding is connected to the spark plugs. When a current flows through the primary winding, it creates a magnetic field. This magnetic field then induces a current to flow through the secondary winding. The current in the secondary winding is much higher than the current in the primary winding, which is what is needed to create a spark at the spark plugs.
Types of Coils
There are two main types of coils: ignition coils and distributor coils. Ignition coils are used in modern cars, while distributor coils were used in older cars. Ignition coils are mounted directly on the spark plugs, while distributor coils are mounted on the distributor.
Ignition Coils
Ignition coils are more efficient than distributor coils and they produce a hotter spark. This hotter spark helps to improve engine performance and fuel economy. Ignition coils are also more reliable than distributor coils, which is why they are used in modern cars.
Distributor Coils
Distributor coils are less efficient than ignition coils and they produce a weaker spark. This weaker spark can make it more difficult for the engine to start, especially in cold weather. Distributor coils are also less reliable than ignition coils, which is why they are no longer used in modern cars.
Symptoms of a Bad Coil
A bad coil can cause a number of problems, including:
- Engine misfires
- Poor engine performance
- Increased fuel consumption
- Difficulty starting the engine
How to Test a Coil
If you suspect that your coil is bad, you can test it using a multimeter. To do this, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Set the multimeter to the ohms setting.
- Touch one probe of the multimeter to each terminal of the coil.
- The multimeter should read between 0.5 and 2 ohms.
How to Replace a Coil
If your coil is bad, you will need to replace it. To do this, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Remove the bolts that hold the coil in place.
- Disconnect the electrical connectors from the coil.
- Remove the old coil and install the new coil.
- Tighten the bolts that hold the coil in place.
- Reconnect the electrical connectors to the coil.
- Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
Conclusion
The coil is an essential component of a car’s ignition system. It is responsible for converting the low-voltage current from the battery into a high-voltage current that is needed to create a spark at the spark plugs. This spark ignites the air-fuel mixture in the cylinders, which in turn powers the engine. If your coil is bad, you will need to replace it in order to keep your car running properly.
