Cracked Ignition Coil

• Ignition Coil Replacement
• Symptoms Of A Cracked Ignition Coil

I have a 2002 Grand Caravan with a 3.3l v6.I keep cracking the coil pack between the # 2 and 5 cyclinders. The van will act fine for months and then without notice the coil will crack. I was told to replace the plugs and wires due to a possible grounding problem.

This did not correct the problem. I have noticed that the problem came about shortly after breaking a serp belt. Also the van will starting to misfire if its put under a severe load and if pushed too hard the coil cracks.

My buddy is a Master Tech at a Dodge dealership and he said to replace the ECM. I would like to avoid the cost if a simpler solution could correct the problem. The van is also throwing a code for oxygen sensor heater since this problem arose.

Also known as a, the ignition coil is located in the vehicle's and is crucial in igniting the fuel. It does this by increasing the low voltage created by the automobile's battery into enough voltage to make an electric spark (literally thousands of volts). The usually is constructed of a laminate iron core with two copper wire coils surrounding it. Since the ignition coil is so vital to starting and running a, consistently making sure it's in good shape is advised. Problems may arise, however, so it's good to know how to fix an ignition coil as well.

Signs an Ignition Coil Needs to Be Fixed There are numerous signs that the ignition coil is failing. One early sign is backfiring, which happens when fuel that hasn't been used by the car exits through the exhaust system. Problems with starting the car are another indicator, and most likely because the ignition coil isn't giving a spark plug (or multiple spark plugs) enough charge. A decrease in gas mileage, engine jerking, and stalling are other signs.

Additionally, worn-out can put lots of stress on the ignition coil, which will cause it to break down sooner. Testing an Ignition Coil Test before attempting a repair, as the problem with the vehicle may not be the ignition coil. If it's suspected the ignition coil is having issues, then stop the car, open the hood, and let it rest for ten minutes. Put on safety goggles and while waiting. Find the ignition coil (near the starter or fender typically), which is connected via wire to the ignition system's. Next, select a spark plug wire and unplug it from its plug on the distributor; then, get a and remove the entire spark plug, which should reveal a hole (don't let any debris fall in that hole).

Then, using insulated pliers, attach the spark plug back to its wire on the distributor, but do not reattach it to its hole. With insulated pliers to hold, touch the spark plug to any metal within the engine. Have an assistant start the car. If there are blue sparks, the ignition coil is supplying sufficient charge; if there are orange sparks, the ignition coil isn't supplying enough charge, which could be for a number of reasons.

No spark typically means the coil is simply dead. Once complete, put the spark plug back in its place carefully. Replacing an Ignition Coil Typically, repairing an ignition coil means replacing the ignition coil. Since ignition coils aren't too pricey, replacement is the preferred method. Having the car manual handy for this process is advised. To do the replacement, first unplug the negative cable from the battery (this is to avoid shock).

Be sure to wear gloves while doing this. Then, with a compatible socket wrench, remove the ignition coil; this may require twisting and rotating the coil to avoid hitting the fuel injector rails. Once removed, take the replacement coil (preferably one made by the same manufacturer), and rub a small amount of on the rubber ends.

Reinstall this ignition coil, using a compatible or socket wrench to tighten the coil bolts. Lastly, get the negative cable and reconnect it to the battery.

Repairing an Ignition Coil Ignition coils usually falter because of faulty connections, cracked casings, insufficient current, and a myriad of other reasons. Know that a dead cable or one simply not sending enough charge probably should be replaced. Fixing an Ignition Coil with Faulty Connections For faulty connections, though, one way to try a repair would be to disconnect the ignition coil from the ignition system; after taking out the ignition coil (process mentioned above), find the coil's rubber ends and spread dielectric compound on them.

Then, reconnect the coil. Start the engine to see if it's firing properly. If not, a replacement is needed. Fixing a Cracked Ignition Coil Cracked casings are another common issue, and a repair can be done for this as well. Again, remove the ignition coil in the manner described above and locate the crack.

Next, take epoxy glue and cover the crack with it. This bandage should enable the coil to work almost as well as before it was cracked.

Ignition Coil Replacement

However, do note that this is only a temporary solution. Sooner or later, a replacement is required, especially since the crack has probably allowed moisture inside the coil, which will eventually cause the coil to fail. How to Buy Ignition Coils on eBay Ignition coils can easily be found and purchased on eBay. Just search in the eBay Motors category, then filter results by setting preferences on the left side. Once a suitable ignition coil is found, check the automotive parts seller's ratings.

Symptoms Of A Cracked Ignition Coil

Only buy an ignition coil from those with positive feedback on eBay.