Signs of a Bad Coil Pack

Coil packs are key to the ignition system of modern vehicles. A coil pack is an automobile component that works to help the fuel ignite in the cylinders by giving the spark plugs a high voltage of electricity. A bad coil pack can result in unused fuel clogging the catalytic converter. This automobile component is located under the hood and can be found on most vehicles by following the spark plug wires. When a coil pack is faulty, certain signs and symptoms will be present. Coil failure is detrimental to engine performance and can result in vehicle stalling.

Signs of a Bad Ignition Coil

Power Symptoms

Several signs of a bad coil pack are present when driving the vehicle. The vehicle may have a rough idle, an unexplainable and abnormally louder engine and a noticeable reduction in power. You can also experience engine misfires, when the cylinder fails to fire, and backfiring from the incorrect air-fuel mixture in the car’s engine.

Accelerating Symptoms

When a coil fails a major drop in RPM's during acceleration can occur causing a hard start. This can be determined by watching the RPM gauge while driving. During acceleration the check engine light either comes in intermittently or blinks.

Other Common Symptoms

If the vehicle emits black smoke or smoke comes out of the exhaust pipe intermittently instead of in a normal steady stream. If the vehicle has plenty of fuel but the gas warming light goes on intermittently. Ignition coil replacement is possible at most standard auto repair shops, however your specific automotive dealer shop may only have access to the particular parts your vehicle needs.