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Are ignition coils worth replacing?

Yes, replacing ignition coils can be worth it in many cases. Ignition coils are an essential component of a vehicle's ignition system, responsible for providing the high-voltage spark that ignites the air-fuel mixture in the engine's cylinders. Over time, these coils can wear out or fail, leading to various performance issues and decreased fuel efficiency.


What Are Ignition Coils?


Ignition coils are electromagnetic devices that transform the low-voltage current from the vehicle's battery into the high-voltage spark needed to ignite the fuel in the engine's cylinders. They work in conjunction with the vehicle's spark plugs to ensure proper combustion and engine performance.


Signs That Ignition Coils Need Replacement


There are several signs that indicate it may be time to replace the ignition coils in your vehicle:



  • Misfiring engine: If the engine is misfiring, it could be a sign of a failing ignition coil. This can cause the engine to run rough, lose power, or even stall.

  • Decreased fuel efficiency: Faulty ignition coils can lead to incomplete combustion, resulting in reduced fuel efficiency.

  • Check engine light: The check engine light may illuminate due to issues with the ignition coils, triggering diagnostic trouble codes.

  • Difficulty starting the engine: If the engine is having trouble starting, it could be a sign of a problem with the ignition coils.


If you notice any of these symptoms, it's a good idea to have your vehicle's ignition system inspected by a qualified mechanic.


Benefits of Replacing Ignition Coils


Replacing worn or faulty ignition coils can provide several benefits:



  • Improved engine performance: New ignition coils can restore proper combustion, leading to increased power, acceleration, and overall engine performance.

  • Better fuel efficiency: Replacing ignition coils can help improve fuel efficiency by ensuring complete combustion of the air-fuel mixture.

  • Reduced emissions: Proper ignition coil function can help reduce harmful emissions from the vehicle.

  • Longer engine life: Addressing ignition coil issues can prevent further damage to other engine components, extending the overall lifespan of the engine.


In many cases, replacing ignition coils is a relatively inexpensive and straightforward repair that can provide significant benefits to the vehicle's performance and longevity.

Will a new ignition coil improve performance?


Regularly replacing worn coils will not only save you in future repairs, it will also optimize your machine's performance and reliability. Ensuring that your engine is operating at its best with each spark.



Can I drive with a bad ignition coil?


Can You Drive with a Bad Ignition Coil? If you're rocking a single ignition coil, you probably won't be able to start your car, let alone drive it. If you have a COP setup, it may be possible to drive your vehicle with a failed coil, but we advise against it since doing so can be unsafe and damaging to your engine.



What is the life expectancy of an ignition coil?


80,000 to 100,000 miles
The ignition coils in your car's engine must consistently generate huge 15,000 to 20,000-volt charges of electricity so the spark plugs can keep igniting the engine's fuel. Despite how hard ignition coils work, they have a relatively long expected lifespan of 80,000 to 100,000 miles.



Should I replace spark plugs when I replace ignition coils?


Not only your acceleration. Your lack of acceleration. But also your fuel mileage if you have less spark it's not going to ignite the fuel properly. And that's going to be wasting gas.



Why are ignition coils so expensive?


Why are ignition coils so expensive? These are precision components. As a typical spark plug is fired eight times a second, ignition coils have to be well made. Being tempted by a low-quality part is a false economy.



Does replacing ignition coils make a difference?


  • Improved Spark Quality : A new ignition coil can provide a stronger and more consistent spark, leading to better combustion of the air-fuel mixture.
  • Better Fuel Efficiency
  • Enhanced Acceleration
  • Reduced Misfires
  • Overall Engine Health



Should you replace spark plugs when you replace ignition coils?


Around the sides. And if the iridium breaks or there's an internal fault in the plug. It's making that coil work that much harder it's going to heat up the coil.



What are the symptoms of a bad ignition coil?


The signs below from your Lexus dealer will warn you when it's time for repairs to avoid engine damage and expensive repairs.

  • The Check Engine Light Is On.
  • Your Car Feels Slow.
  • Your Car Is Heavy on Gas.
  • Your Car's Engine Misfires.
  • Your Car Backfires.
  • You Struggle with Starting and Stalling Issues.
  • You Hear Sputters and Coughs.



How often should ignition coils be replaced?


Ignition coils typically do not have a specific replacement interval, but they can last anywhere from 60000 to 100000 miles (approximately 96000 to 160000 kilometers) under normal driving conditions. However, factors such as engine type, driving habits, and maintenance practices can affect their lifespan.



How much should it cost to replace ignition coils?


For standard vehicles with conventional ignition coils, replacing a single ignition coil can range from $100 to $300. However, for vehicles equipped with more advanced ignition systems like coil-on-plug (COP) or distributorless ignition system (DIS) coils, the cost may be higher, ranging from $200 to $600 per coil.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.