Ignition System: How Important is it for your Car?
The ignition system is a crucial component of any car. By providing the spark that ignites the air/fuel mixture in the engine’s cylinders, it drives the pistons and allows for movement. Over time, however, typical wear and tear can cause problems like decreased performance or fuel economy, and even engine failure.
In this article, we take an insightful look into how exactly the ignition system works as well as what might go wrong with it over extended periods of use.
The ignition system employs spark plugs that run on electrical current. This current is supplied by the ignition coil, which gets power from the battery and signals from the ignition switch. When you turn on the car, a message goes to the Ignition Control Module (ICM). The ICM tells the coil to make a high-voltage spark.
The spark crosses through the spark plug’s electrode into an ashtray posing as a combustion chamber where it sets fire to the air/fuel mixture.
Over time, any area of the ignition system may succumb to wear and tear. Misfiring is the most frequent issue, which can be caused by faulty spark plugs or a damaged Ignition Control Module. Misfiring might lead to reduced performance, lower fuel efficiency, and even engine damage.
If your car is giving you ignition trouble, don’t wait to get it checked out. Ignoring the problem could lead to much more expensive repairs down the road. At Werner’s European Auto, we’re qualified to diagnose and repair all types of ignition system problems quickly and efficiently. So if you’re having trouble with your car’s ignition system, bring it into us and we’ll get you back on the road in no time!
