Ignition Coil Replacement Cost Estimate

Concerned about potential overpayment for your ignition coil replacement? Utilize MyMechanic to obtain a fair cost estimate for this service.

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How much does an ignition coil replacement cost?

On average, the cost of replacing an ignition coil can vary depending on your vehicle and where you have the replacement done.

How long does it take to replace an ignition coil replacement cost?

The parts cost encompasses a new ignition coil, and potentially additional components such as a replacement car battery, ignition switch, or set of spark plugs. Regarding labor costs, it typically requires one to three hours for a certified mechanic to inspect your vehicle, diagnose the issue, and complete an ignition coil replacement.

How did we estimate these prices?

My Mechanic experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all states in Malaysia, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified MyMechanic in Malaysia, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair.

What parts do you need for an ignition coil replacement?

Three primary types of ignition systems exist, progressing from the oldest to the newest: the conventional ignition system, also known as the "contact breaker" or "breaker point" system, followed by the electronic ignition system, and finally, the distributorless ignition system. All three systems rely on ignition coils.

  • Ignition coils are essential components across all three ignition systems. They convert the 12-volt current from the car battery into 60-120,000 volts of power. Distributors or distributor caps, found in various systems, employ breaker points or pickup coils to precisely time the bursts of electricity sent to the spark plugs.
  • Ignition switches featured in conventional and electronic ignition systems, complete the circuit to start the engine when the key is turned or ignition switch is activated. Pressing the ignition switch again interrupts the circuit, shutting down the engine.
  • Car batteries are fundamental in all three ignition systems, providing ignition coils with a low-voltage current once the circuit is established.
  • Ignition cables or spark plug wires, are present in conventional and electronic ignition systems. They transmit the voltage generated by the ignition coils, timed by the distributor, to the spark plugs.
  • Spark plugs are indispensable components in all three ignition systems. They create a high-voltage spark across a gap in each engine cylinder, igniting the air-fuel mixture precisely. These controlled combustion processes power the engine.

Remember: Reviving your car may necessitate installing new ignition coils, along with replacing spark plugs, spark plug wires, or even installing a new ignition switch.

OEM parts generally come at a higher price compared to aftermarket alternatives, but they often come with superior warranties.For instance, if a certified Toyota mechanic installs an authentic ignition coil in your vehicle, you can expect a 24-month/25,000-mile warranty. The cost of parts is even higher for luxury brands like Audi or Mercedes-Benz. Nevertheless, aftermarket ignition coil packs usually offer a lower price point while fulfilling the same fundamental function.

You can purchase a replacement aftermarket ignition coil replacement from MyMechanic or contact them for further assistance.

Where can I get my ignition coil replaced?

Finding a mechanic to replace your ignition coil can be challenging, especially if you don't have a trusted garage. However, you can get your ignition coil replaced at MyMechanic in Malaysia. Additionally, consider using a service to compare prices from a wide range of reputable auto repair shops. This service assesses fair price estimates from each auto shop, taking into account their hourly labor rate. It also helps you determine if diagnostic fees are included in the service cost and provides honest reviews to aid in your decision-making process.

How did we vet these shops?

My Mechanic experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the Malaysia. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually.

How do mechanics replace ignition coils?

Replacing an ignition coil is a straightforward task that demands basic familiarity with ignition systems, minimal equipment, and careful handling. When you bring your car to the garage, the mechanic will:

  • Disconnect the battery and let the car cool down.
  • Access the ignition coils by disassembling relevant components and removing any necessary parts.
  • Disconnect the wiring surrounding the ignition coils and ensure the connectors are clean.
  • Utilize a multimeter or voltmeter to test the ignition coils and verify any malfunction.
  • Replace the defective ignition coil(s) and reconnect the wiring.
  • Reassemble all parts and battery cables, then perform a thorough test of the vehicle.

Is it okay to drive with a failed ignition coil?

Ignition coils play a vital role in your car's ignition and powertrain systems. Depending on the severity of the issue, your driving capability may be affected by:

  • When the ignition coils fail to ignite the engine, your vehicle won't budge. Avoid the inconvenience of being stranded; an immobilized car can quickly become a hindrance.
  • Engine misfires: In the absence of electrical signals, any spark plugs connected to a malfunctioning ignition coil won't fire or will misfire. Besides causing a rough ride, prolonged misfires pose a risk of engine damage.
  • A faulty catalytic converter: When the air-fuel mixture in the engine cylinders fails to ignite, it travels through the exhaust system to the catalytic converter. Raw gasoline can harm the converter over time if a faulty ignition coil is neglected, leading to potential damage.

What is an ignition coil replacement?

An ignition coil replacement addresses the miniature transformers within your vehicle that convert the low voltage from the car battery into a sufficiently powerful spark to ignite the fuel within the engine's combustion chamber. In the standard coil-on-plug system prevalent in modern cars, ignition coils are positioned atop the spark plugs. They are available pre-assembled, as well as in individual and multiple packs.

What are the symptoms of a bad ignition coil?

Without obvious damage, identifying failing ignition coils can be challenging. Look out for these warning signs:

  • Overdue replacement: Ignition coils should be inspected or replaced every 80,000 to 100,000 miles.
  • Engine misfires, rough idling, vibrations, and loss of power: Malfunctioning ignition coils can cause improper or no firing of engine cylinders, resulting in unbalanced shaking, knocking, and stalling.
  • Reduced gas mileage: Engine misfires lead to decreased fuel efficiency.
  • Increased emissions: Ignition coil failure results in unburned fuel exiting the exhaust, emitting a foul odor.
  • Check engine light: While the check engine light can indicate various issues, an OBD code reader or mechanic can identify if it's related to the ignition coils.
  • Difficulty starting the car: Without the necessary spark from the ignition coils, your vehicle may struggle to start or may not start at all.

    • How long do ignition coils typically last?

    Ignition coils usually have a lifespan of 80,000 to 100,000 miles.Frequently, failures in other parts of the car contribute to ignition coil malfunctions. For instance, if the ballast resistor malfunctions, it could lead to a power surge that damages the ignition coils.

    Loose ignition cables and gaps may force the coils to handle increasingly higher levels of electricity. Additionally, inadequate maintenance may result in air, moisture, and dust infiltration, leading to corrosion of the coils.

    Is an ignition coil easy to fix?

    Replacing ignition coils is typically straightforward and accessible, making it a suitable DIY task. However, like any automotive electronic service, caution is crucial when handling wires to prevent shocks. Before starting, it's advisable to consult a detailed repair manual or instructional video. Additionally, remember to wear protective equipment throughout the process.

    FAQs

    Replacing all ignition coils simultaneously is recommended as a preventive measure because, in the absence of unusual damage, they typically wear out concurrently. Opting to replace multiple parts in one visit to the mechanic is more cost-effective than making multiple trips to the garage.

    If your ignition coils are not failing, there is no need to replace them along with the spark plugs.The lifespan of spark plugs may not coincide with that of ignition coils. Copper and nickel spark plugs might last as few as 30,000 miles, whereas platinum and iridium components can endure for 150,000 miles or longer.

    Spark plugs and ignition coils are distinct components.They have different appearances and cannot be swapped interchangeably. Spark plugs are slender metallic plugs, whereas ignition coils are cylindrical and typically encased in plastic. Ignition coils provide powerful bursts of electricity to the spark plugs.