How to check ignition coils the easy way

The ignition coil function distributes the high-voltage electricity generated by the secondary coil at the ECU's command to the spark plug to be converted into a jump of sparks.

Ignition coils that work properly will facilitate an easy way to starting the engine when it is first started and provide the engine rotation stability while the engine is running.

However, when the ignition coil is damaged and cannot function properly, the spark plug cannot spark inside the engine cylinder's chamber. It makes the engine cannot run even though the engine has been started many times. So how do you check car ignition coils?

In the following article, we will share how to check the ignition coil that we know. But before that, it's good to prepare some of the following tools before checking the ignition coil.

• Prepare 1 spark plug in good condition (which functions normally). Get the same type as the spark plug used in your car. If not, you need to remove one of the spark plugs installed in the car.
• Hand tools (socket wrench or spanner) to open the ignition coil (if the model coil is one spark plug for one coil).
• Remove the entire injector socket from the injector, or if you understand, remove the special relay for the injector. The goal is to prevent bursts of fuel when checking the coil.
• Pull the handbrake and neutralize the gear lever. If necessary, block the tire.
• Invite one person as a helper to help start the engine.

Also read:

• 5 Bad ignition coil symptoms

How to check the ignition coil

After everything is ready, both the tools, the helper, and the car's safety, see the steps for checking the ignition coil below.

1. Remove all injector sockets.
2. Use handtools (socket wrench or spanner) to open all existing ignition coils.
3. Remove all ignition coils from the engine but do not remove the coil wires and socket.
4. Attach the spark plug that we prepared earlier to the coil that has been detached from the engine
5. Hold the back of the coil (near the socket), then attach the spark plug body to the engine body to get grounding/mass.
6. Tell the helper to start the car engine. At the same time, we hold the coil with the spark plug attached to the engine body.
7. Pay attention to the flames of sparks coming out of the spark plug. If the spark in the spark plug looks strong and burns well, this is a sign that the coil is still functioning properly. Vice versa, if no spark occurs in the spark plug, it is likely that the coil is damaged and needs to be replaced.
   
8. Do the same for all coils in the car.
9. A good coil will produce a spark in a strong and large spark plug, but a weak or damaged coil will appear small (weak) or even no spark at all.

Notes and attention :

Perform the above steps carefully and ensure all conditions are safe such as pulling the hand brake lever, neutralizing the gear, and removing the injector socket. Avoid holding the spark plug body while the engine is still starting because you could get an electric shock.