Auto Ignition Coil Spark Plugs Replacement

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A Few Signs That Your Ignition Coil or Spark Plugs Need Replacing

You’re riding down the road in St. Charles when you feel it – a slight hiccup in your car’s engine. It doesn’t appear to be a major problem, so you keep driving. Then, it happens again.

What you’re feeling is a misfire in your engine. That little jolt is your car’s way of telling you that something’s not quite right with how it turns gas into power and maybe it’s time to visit a St. Charles auto repair shop. In many cases, misfires are caused by general deterioration in either the ignition coil or spark plugs. These two components work together to turn a vehicle’s electrical battery power into the mechanical force that, simply put, makes your car move.

A Quick Primer on Your Car’s Ignition System

When you turn the key on your car, there are a few things that happen. First and foremost, power is sent to the spark plugs to ignite a mixture of fuel and air. However, there’s a little problem. Car batteries are not that strong, so they need some help in the form of your ignition coil. When the power is sent to the spark plugs, the ignition coil (or multiple coils) amplifies this power, making it strong enough to start up the engine.

In turn, the spark plugs do their job, which amounts to literally starting a controlled fire in your engine. Created to withstand high heat, high quality spark plugs have a small gap where the power signal is translated into an electrical spark, thus providing an explosion and setting your car’s pistons in motion. To keep your car running, these spark plugs continue to fire and generate power.

More Signs You’re Due For an Ignition Coil or Spark Plugs Replacement

While engine misfires are clearly the most common signs of a problem, there are other potential symptoms that could indicate your ignition coil or spark plugs need to be changed:

1. Inconsistent Idle – If your vehicle is making jittery noises or vibrating when idle, then it could be the spark plugs.
2. Sputtering & Stalling – In the same manner, a sputtering vehicle is often caused by spark plugs that are not igniting correctly.
3. Starting Problems – A car that’s struggling to start may have spark plug or ignition coil issues.
4. Higher Fuel Costs – Making more trips to the pump than usual? Worn spark plugs have a direct impact on your vehicle’s MPG.
5. No Get Up & Go – When an ignition coil or spark plugs deteriorate, it can feel like your car no longer has any power under the hood.

 

Why It Makes Sense to Have a Professional Replacement

Unlike other car repairs that are easier to do on your own, ignition coil and spark plug replacements in St. Charles require some specialized diagnostic equipment and a bit of precision for adjusting the size of spark plug gaps. Fortunately, nearly all St. Charles auto repair shops will be well-versed in ignition system repairs and maintenance and should be able to have you in-and-out in just a short time.

If you’ve noticed any telltale signs of an ignition coil or spark plugs issue, give Rx Auto in St. Charles a call at (630) 443-8500 for a quick and affordable replacement before it turns into a major problem.