Is your Volkswagen hard to start or stalling while driving? It may be time to consider changing the ignition coils. Ignition coils are one of the most important components in the engine of your VW. They transform the low voltage produced by the battery into high voltage that is required to light up the spark plugs that ignite the fuel in the engine.
In most of the current Volkswagen models, there is one ignition coil per cylinder, while in the previous models, there is only one ignition coil, which distributes the voltage to the various cylinders through a distributor. Regardless of the amount of ignition coils contained in your vehicle, if any ignition coil fails, the cylinder will not get the required spark and this will cause different problems that will affect the performance of the engine.
How You Can Spot Ignition Coil Failure?
- Check Engine Light: The first sign that indicates that there might be an issue with the ignition coil is the check engine light coming on. The computer of your Volkswagen constantly checks and analyzes the efficiency of the engine and the ignition system. If it identifies a problem with the ignition coils, the warning light will be turned on. Even though the check engine light could come on due to many factors, it is best to have your VW examined by a professional mechanic to find out if the ignition coils are the cause.
- Engine Stalling: If your Volkswagen has a faulty ignition coil, you may observe that the engine coughs or cuts out at intervals and this is known as a misfire or engine stall. Misfiring occurs when there is an inadequate supply of fuel in one or more cylinders. This can lead to the engine vibrating or stalling. If the ignition system has frequent misfires or stalling the chances are high that the ignition coils might be going bad.
- Excess Fuel Usage: Another symptom is low fuel efficiency in the car. Ignition coils play an important role in the burning of fuel, and if they are not functioning properly, then the engine will not burn fuel as it is supposed to. This can lead to higher fuel consumption and a lower miles per gallon (MPG) rate. If you find yourself frequently refueling your vehicle, you might want to look into your ignition coils.
- Difficulty Starting the Car: If your Volkswagen is hard to start, then it could be as a result of a bad coil. When they fail to produce the correct amount of spark, they will not be able to effectively ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine.
- Lack of Power: Lack of power, or failure to accelerate, can also mean that there is a problem with the ignition coil. If your car seems to be slow or if it does not pick up as it used to, you could be having a bad ignition coil. The engine may be lacking the spark it requires in order to perform at its best.
- Backfiring or Loud Engine Noises: Another indication of ignition coil malfunction may also be backfiring or loud noises coming from the engine. If the ignition coils are not generating the right spark, the unburned fuel can combust in the exhaust system, resulting in a backfire. This is not only audible but can also harm other parts of the exhaust system.
What to Do If You Feel That Your Vehicle’s Ignition Coil Is Failing
If you think you have a faulty ignition coil in your Volkswagen, it is advisable to seek the services of an expert mechanic. A mechanic will be able to advise the best approach to the issue as it may require replacing the ignition coil or other major repair work.
Take Your Volkswagen To The Experts At M Service For Affordable Repairs
If you drive a VW and you suspect that there is a problem with your ignition coils, visit a professional mechanic workshop like M Service for diagnostics and further action. At M Service, we have been the go-to company for Volkswagen repair services in Walnut Creek, CA since 1984 and we can assist you in maintaining your vehicle. We have modern tools in our facility and you can be sure we will use original parts for any component replacement your Volkswagen needs. Feel free to get in touch with us for an appointment today!