Symptoms that Identify Ignition Coil Failure in Your Volkswagen

Volkswagen has become increasingly popular over the years and has become one of the most recognized German cars on the road. They are reliable and family-friendly, but unfortunately, are not immune to occasional problems that arise with any vehicle from time to time.

As the driver of a Volkswagen, the last thing you want to deal with is an ignition coil failure, which can cause serious problems and stress for your vehicle if not dealt with in a timely manner. Let’s discuss the purpose of the ignition coil, symptoms of ignition coil failure, and where to take your Volkswagen for your ignition coil failure issues.

Purpose of the Ignition Coil

The ignition coil, also known as the spark coil, works with the spark plugs to ignite the fuel in your car’s ignition system. It transforms the battery’s voltage to the volts needed to create an electric spark in the spark plugs, igniting the fuel.

Without the ignition coil working optimally, your vehicle can face engine performance issues that can further damage your car if not dealt with promptly, leaving you with an expensive repair bill that could have been avoided with preventative care and maintenance.

Symptoms of Ignition Coil Failure

If you experience any of the below symptoms of ignition coil failure, it’s time to have your car seen by a mechanic as soon as possible to avoid severe engine damage to your vehicle:

• The Check Engine Light Illuminates: A clear sign something is not right with your vehicle is the dreaded check engine light illuminating on your dashboard. Always take your car in to be inspected when this light comes on your dashboard. It may turn out to be something minor or something more serious. You’ll not know until you have the issue diagnosed, so don’t ignore your check engine light.
• Your Car Won’t Start: The most obvious sign there is a problem with your car is that it struggles to start or simply won’t start. While your vehicle’s failure to start leaves the door open to a multitude of possible problems, ignition coil failure tends to be toward the top of that list. Have your car seen as soon as possible to remedy the issue and get back on the road worry-free.
• Poor Fuel Economy: In many cases, you’ll notice poor fuel economy when your ignition coil is failing. When the spark plugs receive less power from the battery due to failing ignition coils, your vehicle will have to rely on using more fuel to keep up, and the last thing you want is to shell out more money for gas.
• Engine Stalling: If you experience your engine stalling or turning off when at a stop, this is a very possible sign of ignition coil failure.
• Oil Leaks: An overheated ignition coil can crack the oil-filled housing it resides in, causing an oil leak. This can eventually cause a flooded carburetor and impact vehicle performance.
• Spark Plugs Need Replaced: If your spark plugs are failing, this can ultimately cause ignition coil failure, as well, as they have to operate at a higher output to compensate for the faulty spark plugs.
• Backfiring and Catalytic Converter Performance Issues: Backfiring can occur when unused fuel is emitted into the exhaust system. It can cause damage not only to your exhaust system, but also your catalytic converter, and that’s not a repair bill you want. If your exhaust is emitting black smoke and there is a strong odor of gasoline, you may be dealing with ignition coil failure and should have your car seen as soon as possible.

Germany’s Best Inc. Will Help

If you suspect you’re dealing with ignition coil failure, why not have your Volkswagen seen by the German car experts? Germany’s Best Inc. serves customers in the Berkeley, Emeryville, Piedmont, and Oakland, California areas. Our experienced and highly-skilled mechanics can examine and diagnose your ignition coil failure or any other issues you’re experiencing, so you can just focus on getting your Volkswagen back on the road without the stress and headaches of parts failures. Call us today to schedule your appointment and discover why Germany’s Best is your trusted source for Volkswagen maintenance and repairs.