There are many components and processes that go into producing the great performance and driving experience you’ve come to expect from a Nissan, and your vehicle’s ignition system is one of the most important. Faulty ignition coils are one of the more common ignition problems drivers end up dealing with, so we here at your local Nissan dealer thought you should know what to look for when identifying potential ignition coil problems.
What Does an Ignition Coil Do?
Your vehicle’s ignition coils are an integral part of its ignition system. They essentially function by converting the (relatively low) current produced by your vehicle’s battery into an electrical current that has enough of a charge to ignite the fuel in your ignition system and start the engine. Ignition coils are located in your vehicle’s engine just above (or very close to) its spark plugs, and the converted electrical charge is what causes those spark plugs to spark.
Without properly functioning ignition coils, your vehicle may not have the electrical charge required to cause those spark plugs to spark and ignite, leading to a host of potential mechanical and performance problems in your engine.
How Can You Tell If Your Ignition Coils Are Failing?
Because of the ignition coils’ key function in your vehicle’s engine, there are a number of warning signs to look out for that mean you should get your vehicle looked at. One of the main symptoms is a sudden loss of power in your vehicle, resulting in a sluggish response to the gas pedal. Similarly, if your engine is misfiring when you accelerate, this can be another sure sign that you should get your ignition coils looked at.
Other common symptoms include a hard-starting or sputtering vehicle or even one that stalls unexpectedly when attempting to accelerate from a stop. With faulty electrical charges making their way to the spark plugs at the wrong time, if at all, your engine may also be jerking and vibrating roughly when you accelerate. Many drivers with ignition coil troubles also report a significant and sudden reduction in their vehicle’s fuel economy.
What Should You Do About a Failing Ignition Coil?
If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, you should get your vehicle checked out by a qualified mechanic. Failing ignition coils, if left untreated, can lead to more significant damage being done to your emissions system, including your catalytic converter, turning a relatively straightforward fix into something a little more complicated (and expensive).
If you’ve noticed any of the symptoms of a failing ignition coil happening if your vehicle, or if you’re looking for a quick tune-up, visit us at DARCARS Nissan of College Park today! If you prefer to have an appointment, you may conveniently schedule a service online now as well!
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