How does ignition coil work

However, the igniton coil has changed a lot. In the past, there was only one tubular coil that worked for all spark plugs. But now, there is a single coil or dual coil pack system where an engine does not only have one coil for all but one coil for each spark plugs.

What is the ignition coil function? Its function is only to increase the ignition voltage. Why does the ignition voltage have to be increased? Very different from conventional and electronic — coils sit directly on top of the spark plugs, no spark plug wires, and the system is electronic. The third type of ignition system is the distributorless ignition. The spark plugs are fired directly from the coils. Spark plug timing is controlled by an ignition module and the engine computer.

The distributorless ignition system may have one coil per cylinder or one coil for each pair of cylinders. Learn more about quality spark plugs , find your car part , or find where to buy your auto part today. The content contained in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be used in lieu of seeking professional advice from a certified technician or mechanic. We encourage you to consult with a certified technician or mechanic if you have specific questions or concerns relating to any of the topics covered herein.

Under no circumstances will we be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on any content. Check them out! About Us. Contact Us. Find My Part. Select Language. Message Regarding Your Privacy. I accept Submit Submit. Conventional Ignition System. Electronic Ignition System The need for higher mileage, reduced emissions and greater reliability has led to the development of the electronic ignition system.

Electric, solar-powered and alternate fuel vehicles may be the wave of the future, but for now most automobiles run on gasoline, which they burn in an internal combustion engine to convert into motion. For combustion to take place, a spark is needed to ignite the fuel mixture in the engine. The heart of this system is a device called an ignition coil.

This coil is a kind of transformer. Transformers transfer voltage from one circuit to another, either as a higher voltage as in a step-up transformer, of which the ignition coil is an example , or a lower voltage a step-down transformer. The key principle that makes transformers work is electromagnetic induction : A moving magnetic field, or a change in a stationary magnetic field the case in our ignition coil , can induce a current in a wire exposed to that field.

This ignition coil is a pulse-type transformer. Like other transformers, it consists, in part, of two coils of wire, as shown in the diagram at right.