Diagnosing Your VW’s Ignition Coil Issues
12 Sep, 25
Caring for your Volkswagen involves paying attention to certain parts that do not get as much attention, as they deserve care too. The ignition coil is an example of that kind of part, as it plays a vital role in your car’s starting ability as well as engine performance.
Ignition coil problems can be common with Volkswagen models, and if not well handled, can cause serious engine issues. In this guide, we will discuss the importance of the ignition coil and how to tell when it develops a fault.
What Does the Ignition Coil Do and Why Does it Fail?
For your car’s engine to run smoothly, it relies on various systems including the ignition system that ensures that the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber gets sufficient spark for fuel ignition and combustion.
The ignition coil generates and delivers a surge of electrical voltage to the spark plug, which then ignites the air-fuel mixture. Combustion is impossible if the ignition coil fails. There are various reasons why the ignition coil fails in a car, and some of them include;
Aging
Wear and tear as a result of aging is one of the most common causes of faults in many car systems, and the ignition system is no exception. Ignition coils typically last between 80,000 to 100,000 miles and after you cross this mileage, you may begin to notice signs of an issue due to wear.
Excessive Heat
The ignition coils, like other components that work closely with the engine, are usually subjected to extreme heat conditions. Over time, this exposure to high temperatures can affect the coil and lead to its failure.
Faulty Installations
Ignition coil issues may also arise due to errors either from the manufacturer or mechanics who have worked on the car. If the ignition coil is not properly installed, it could begin to overheat or develop other faults that could lead to its failure.
- Other causes are electrical problems like faulty wiring or poor connections, faulty ignition switch, and fuel system issues.
How to Tell if Your Car’s Ignition Coil is Faulty
While the only way to make an accurate diagnosis is through professional inspections and tests, here are some signs that can point you in the right direction, or at least inform you when it is time to get your car to a professional for a check-up.
“Check Engine” Light
If your car’s “check engine” light is illuminated on the dashboard, it could be a sign of a faulty ignition coil. The CEL warns of any fault that affects the engine, and as the ignition coil indirectly impacts how the engine runs, the illuminated light could point to a faulty ignition system.
Slow/Poor Acceleration
If you notice that your car’s engine is performing poorly with signs such as slow acceleration or engine misfiring, it could be due to a faulty ignition coil. The ignition coil supplies the voltage that generates the spark for combustion. If the coil fails, the engine will fail to function as its power is generated from complete combustion.
Problem Starting the Engine
The ignition system’s key role is in getting the engine to start. The electrical power that your car’s engine needs to start is delivered by the ignition system. If this system has a fault, such as a damaged ignition coil, it could become difficult to get the engine to start. If your car has only one coil and it fails, then it will be impossible to get the engine to start.
The Best Auto Shop for Your VW’s Ignition Coil Replacement
Whether your car is showing 
signs of a failed ignition coil, or you have passed the 100,000-mile mark, it means it might be time to replace the ignition coil. Ignition coil replacement is not child’s play, though, and you have to make sure it is done by a professional to avoid complications from faulty installations.
Santa Barbara Autowerks is an automobile service center that offers quality services for German car makes and models. We have a team of certified, trained, and dedicated technicians who have spent years learning about German models and can fix any problem with your Volkswagen. If you are in or around Montecito, Goleta, Isla Vista, Carpinteria, Summerland, or Santa Barbara, CA, you should bring your car over to our shop for the best repair and replacement services.