A vehicle’s ignition coil is responsible for transferring battery power to the spark plugs in order to start the engine. When this component is damaged or worn down, there are a variety of things that can go wrong. Your local Ford dealer can diagnose and repair or replace this part if necessary. Here are some signs to look for that may indicate the need for service.
Engine Misfires
This coil is responsible for igniting the mixture of fuel and air inside your engine’s cylinder. If it doesn’t work properly, the mixture won’t ignite properly to provide the right amount of power for your vehicle. For example, if too much fuel is added to the chamber before the spark is delivered to the engine, it may create loud noises that sound like banging or clanging under the hood, or the engine may even misfire or backfire.
Idling or Stalling
When the fuel mixture in the engine doesn’t ignite properly, your engine doesn’t have the right amount of power to propel the vehicle forward. Even if the car still starts and moves, it may feel slower or delayed as you press down on the gas pedal. The engine may even vibrate or stall when you come to a stop.
Difficulty Starting the Engine
If your ignition system has only one coil, any damage may prevent it from starting your engine at all. Those with multiple coils may still have difficulty starting, with jerky or sputtering motions common if the right amount of power isn’t being transferred from the battery to the fuel system.
Frequent Trips to the Pump
Proper fuel ignition is important for maintaining efficiency. If the coil is not igniting this mixture correctly, your vehicle is likely to waste fuel. If you’re noticing more frequent trips to the gas station without additional miles traveled in your vehicle, a faulty coil may be to blame.
Check Engine Light
Your vehicle’s check engine light is designed to illuminate when the engine is not running properly or efficiently, like when the fuel mixture is not igniting properly. This light can also indicate other issues with your vehicle, like a loose fuel cap or faulty catalytic converter, so bring your vehicle in for service to determine the exact cause.
If you notice any of these issues, whether it’s in your sporty Mustang or rugged F-150, bring your vehicle to Pohanka Ford of Salisbury, MD for service. Our dealership offers a wide range of repair and maintenance services, including diagnostics and replacement parts. Our trained team can quickly determine the cause of the above issues and get you back on the road as quickly as possible.
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