How much should it cost to replace ignition coils?

Replacing ignition coils can be a necessary repair for many vehicles, but the cost can vary significantly depending on factors like the make and model of your car, the number of coils needed, and the labor involved. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300 or more to replace ignition coils, with the average cost falling around $200.

Understanding Ignition Coils and Their Role

Ignition coils are an essential component of a vehicle's ignition system, responsible for converting the low-voltage current from the battery into the high-voltage spark needed to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the engine's cylinders. When an ignition coil fails, it can cause misfiring, poor engine performance, and even complete engine failure.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Ignition Coil Replacement

• Number of Coils: Most vehicles have one ignition coil per cylinder, so the more cylinders your engine has, the more coils you'll need to replace, which will increase the overall cost.


• Coil Type: Some vehicles use individual coils for each cylinder, while others have a single coil that serves multiple cylinders. Individual coils tend to be more expensive than the shared coil design.


• Labor Costs: The labor involved in replacing ignition coils can vary significantly, depending on the accessibility of the coils and the complexity of the vehicle's design. Expect to pay more for labor on vehicles with difficult-to-reach coils or complex engine layouts.


• Parts Costs: The cost of the ignition coils themselves can range from $30 to $100 or more per coil, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

It's important to note that the cost of ignition coil replacement can also be influenced by other factors, such as the age and mileage of your vehicle, the presence of any underlying issues, and the specific repair shop or mechanic you choose to work with.

Tips for Minimizing the Cost of Ignition Coil Replacement

• Shop Around: Compare prices and labor rates at different repair shops to find the best deal.


• Consider Aftermarket Parts: Aftermarket ignition coils can often be significantly less expensive than OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts, while still providing reliable performance.


• Perform Preventive Maintenance: Regular tune-ups and maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your ignition coils, potentially delaying the need for replacement.


• DIY Replacement: If you're mechanically inclined, you may be able to replace the ignition coils yourself, saving on labor costs.

By understanding the factors that influence the cost of ignition coil replacement and taking steps to minimize those costs, you can ensure that your vehicle's repair is as affordable as possible.

What is the labor cost for coil replacement?

The average cost for an Ignition Coil Replacement is between $225 and $331. Labor costs are estimated between $72 and $106 while parts are priced between $153 and $225. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.

What are the symptoms of a failing ignition coil?

Symptoms of a failing ignition coil include engine misfires, rough idling, and a rough or hard start. Other signs are poor acceleration, reduced fuel economy, the check engine light illuminating, and engine stalling. You may also experience shaking, sputtering, or even backfiring.
 
Engine performance

• Engine misfires: The engine may sputter, cough, or jerk, particularly when accelerating. 
• Rough idling: The engine may feel unstable or shake when idling at a stoplight. 
• Poor acceleration: The vehicle may feel sluggish and hesitate when you try to speed up. 
• Engine stalling: The engine may stall, especially at low speeds or while stopped. 

Starting and fuel 

• Hard starts: It may take longer for the engine to start, especially on cold mornings. 
• Poor fuel economy: Your car may use more gas than usual because of incomplete combustion. 
• Smell of gas: You might smell gas, or see black smoke from the tailpipe, because unburnt fuel is escaping. 

Warning lights and sounds 

• Check engine light: A failing ignition coil can trigger this warning light on your dashboard. Diagnostic trouble codes like P03xx are often associated with misfires. 
• Backfiring: You may hear a loud bang from the exhaust when unburnt fuel ignites. 
• Engine shaking: In addition to rough idling, the entire car may shake or vibrate more than usual. 

Are ignition coils expensive to replace?

Replacing an ignition coil is moderately expensive, typically costing between $200 and $350 per coil, though the total cost depends on parts and labor. Parts alone can range from $50 to $200 or more for a single coil, while labor adds $75 to $150 or more per hour, depending on the vehicle's make, model, and the complexity of the job. 
This video explains the signs of a faulty ignition coil and its replacement cost: 40scar PROblemsYouTube · Jan 12, 2025
Cost breakdown

• Parts: The cost for a single ignition coil varies significantly depending on the vehicle and type of coil. 
  • Standard/aftermarket coils: $50–$200 per coil. 
  • OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) coils: Can be more expensive, sometimes $90–$200 or higher per coil. 
• Labor: Labor costs are an hourly rate, ranging from $50 to $150 per hour. The time needed for replacement can vary from 0.5 to 2 hours, depending on the vehicle's design and the number of coils needing replacement. 
• Total cost: The average total cost for a single replacement typically falls between $200 and $350. For some models, particularly those with more advanced systems, costs can range up to $600 per coil. 

This video discusses the cost of an ignition coil pack: 34sTalkingTechTrendsYouTube · Apr 28, 2025
Factors that influence the cost

• Vehicle's make and model: Some vehicles have more expensive, specialized coils than others. 
• Type of ignition system: Cars with advanced systems like coil-on-plug (COP) may be more expensive to repair than older systems. 
• Parts used: The price can increase depending on whether you choose OEM parts or aftermarket alternatives. 
• Number of coils: If you have multiple coils that need replacing, the total cost will be higher. 
• Labor rates: Labor costs can vary by location and whether you go to a dealership or an independent repair shop. 

Can I drive with a bad ignition coil?

No, you should not drive with a bad ignition coil, as it can lead to expensive damage to the catalytic converter and potentially other engine components. While you might be able to drive a short distance if your vehicle has multiple coils, it is not recommended due to the risk of misfires, poor fuel economy, and a sudden breakdown. 
Risks of driving with a bad ignition coil

• Catalytic converter damage: Unburned fuel from a misfiring cylinder can enter the exhaust and ignite in the catalytic converter, leading to it overheating and failing. 
• Other component damage: Continued driving can put stress on other engine parts like the crankshaft and bearings, leading to more costly repairs. 
• Poor performance: You will likely experience symptoms like a rough idle, poor acceleration, and reduced fuel efficiency. 
• Sudden breakdown: The car could eventually stall, which could be dangerous and leave you stranded. 

What to do instead

• Get your car to a mechanic as soon as possible.
• Avoid driving the vehicle to prevent further damage.