A faulty ignition coil can prevent your Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, or RAM from starting properly. This is because the role of the ignition coil is to provide the electrical spark needed to ignite the air and fuel mixture in the cylinders. If you notice these signs of ignition coil failure, visit your Chrysler dealer immediately for repairs.
1. Hard Starts
One of the signs your ignition coil is wearing out is hard starting. Instead of the engine firing up, you will hear it turning over and struggling to start. This is a sign that the ignition coil is unable to deliver the strong spark required for ignition.
2. Misfiring Engine
Each cylinder in your engine needs a perfectly timed spark from the ignition coils to ignite the air and fuel mixture. When the coils start to fail, they produce a weak spark that causes the cylinders to misfire. You may feel some shaking or jerking as the cylinders fail to fire properly. The only way to fix this problem is to replace the worn-out ignition coil.
3. Rough Idling and Stalling
A failing ignition coil can cause issues with a rough or unstable idle. When you are stopped at a light or sign, the ignition coil can cause the engine to shake. The RPM may fluctuate erratically or drop so low that it causes the engine to cut out completely. As the ignition coil continues to degrade, the idle will become increasingly unsteady, and stalling will occur more frequently.
4. Poor Acceleration
When the ignition coil is working properly, it provides well-timed sparks for proper engine combustion and power. As the coil starts to fail, you will notice a significant loss of acceleration and power when driving. Pressing the gas will have little effect on speed as the cylinders misfire.
5. Sudden Backfires
Are you noticing sudden backfiring from your car’s exhaust system? This loud popping sound comes from unburned fuel igniting in the exhaust manifold or piping rather than the combustion chamber. The fuel ends up in the exhaust due to cylinder misfires caused by a failing ignition coil. Backfires can damage your vehicle’s exhaust components, so you should replace the ignition coil immediately.
6. Check Engine Light
The check engine light illuminates when the onboard computer detects issues with any engine components. When the ignition coil starts to fail, the engine control unit (ECU) registers diagnostic trouble codes specific to the coils.
If you notice any of these signs, replace the bad ignition coil immediately to avoid being stranded by the roadside. Contact Northern Prairie Auto Sales to schedule professional repairs for your vehicle.
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