Mercedes Mullins
Ignition coils and fuel injectors are two different components with separate functions in a car's engine. Ignition coils create the spark that ignites the fuel in the engine, while fuel injectors spray fuel into the engine. While they are separate parts, they work together to ensure the engine runs smoothly. Issues with either component can cause engine problems, such as misfires, and may require replacement or repair. Proper wiring and power supply are also critical for their effective operation and overall engine performance.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Are ignition coils and fuel injectors the same thing? | No, they are different components with separate functions. |
| Can a faulty fuel injector cause a lean fuel mixture? | Yes. |
| Can a faulty ignition coil cause a misfire? | Yes. |
| How to identify if the misfire is due to a faulty injector or ignition coil? | Swap the coil to another position and see if the misfire moves with it. Then, if it doesn't, swap the injector with a different position and see if that moves the misfire. |
| How to test ignition coils? | Perform a power balance test by disconnecting each coil in turn until you find the dead cylinder. Then trade coils and see if the problem moves with the coil. |
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What You'll Learn
Fuel injector and ignition coil functions
Fuel injectors and ignition coils are different components with separate functions. While fuel injectors deliver fuel into the engine's internal combustion chamber, ignition coils create the high voltage required to produce a spark in the spark plug.
Fuel Injector Functions:
Fuel injectors are responsible for injecting or spraying fuel into an engine's internal combustion chamber. This process is known as atomization, where the fuel is forced directly into the combustion chamber at a precise point in the combustion cycle. The injector ensures that the correct volume of fuel is delivered, creating an optimal air-fuel mixture. This mixture is essential for efficient combustion and power generation. Modern engines have up to five injection events in every combustion cycle, aiming for higher efficiency and reduced emissions.
Fuel injectors play a crucial role in the energy transition from fossil fuels to cleaner energy sources, as they can be used with various fuels, including diesel, natural gas, and hydrogen. They enable engines to generate maximum power while minimizing fuel consumption and reducing pollution. The latest technology in fuel injectors helps reduce carbon emissions by delivering accurate fueling with optimized air mixing.
Ignition Coil Functions:
Ignition coils are used in modern petrol engines to create the high voltage necessary to produce a spark in the spark plug. This process involves utilizing the relationship between electricity and magnetism. When an electric current passes through a coil of wire, it generates a magnetic field, which can then be converted back into electricity. This principle, known as mutual inductance, results in a high voltage that is distributed to the spark plugs in the correct cylinder firing order.
The Kettering ignition system, introduced around 1910/1911 by Charles Kettering, became the standard for mass-produced petrol cars. This system used a single ignition coil, and its basic design remained prevalent until the introduction of electronically controlled ignition systems in the 1970s and 1980s.
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Coil and injector power wiring
In terms of wiring, it is important to ensure that the ignition switch is in good condition and making good contact to avoid any voltage drop. While some suggest running the power feed for the coils and injectors from the main EFI relay, others recommend powering the coils and injectors separately from the main EFI relay to avoid overloading the OEM wiring and fuses. It is also worth noting that the ECU gets its power from the main EFI relay, while the coils and injectors are powered directly from the ignition switch.
When it comes to coil wiring sizing, the Yaris coils have four pins: GND, Trigger, IGF (Ignition Feedback), and 12v. It is recommended to use 18-gauge wire or larger for the coils, as smaller wire sizes can be more difficult to work with. Additionally, a single M22759/32-20 12v feed for the injectors can be split out to 6x 22awg 12v supplies, and then 22awg for the ECU trigger. For ignition, a pair of 20awg split into 3x 22awg each for coil 12v can be sufficient while keeping the loom size down.
It is worth noting that some vehicles, such as the Saab 92 and the Wartburg 353, use a separate coil for each cylinder, while others like the 1948 Citroën 2CV use a wasted spark system with a double-ended ignition coil and no distributor. Modern car engines often use a distributor-less system, with each cylinder having its own ignition coil.
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Replacing ignition coils and fuel injectors
Replacing Ignition Coils:
- Ensure that your engine is cool before starting any work. Apply the emergency brake and open the hood.
- Disconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to your vehicle's repair guide before disconnecting the cable, as some vehicles may react negatively, especially if the cable is disconnected for an extended period.
- Locate the ignition coils. They may be difficult to access, depending on your vehicle's engine design.
- Carefully disconnect the electrical plastic pigtail connector to avoid damaging it. Age and deterioration may cause this connector to break, so be prepared and use caution.
- Unscrew the coil hold-down bolt(s) and remove the coil. You may need to use a twisting motion to make the insulator boot slide off the spark plug. If the boot tears, use a pick and/or needle-nose pliers to remove any stuck portions from the spark plug, being careful not to damage the spark plug porcelain.
- If replacing multiple coils, it is recommended to replace them one at a time. Identify each coil pigtail connector with stick-on numbers or take a picture before removing the second coil.
- Install the new ignition coil(s) by following the removal steps in reverse. Ensure that the new coil(s) are securely connected and bolted down.
Replacing Fuel Injectors:
- Before replacing fuel injectors, it is recommended to first swap ignition coils and spark plugs, as these are more common causes of misfires and other issues.
- If the issue persists after addressing ignition coils and spark plugs, then you may proceed with replacing the fuel injectors.
- Refer to a step-by-step guide or video tutorial specific to your vehicle's make and model. Fuel injector replacement can be complex and may require specialized knowledge and tools.
- When purchasing replacement fuel injectors, ensure that you acquire parts that are compatible with your vehicle's specific model and engine type.
- Exercise caution when working with fuel system components, and always prioritize your safety.
Note: It is generally recommended to consult a qualified automotive technician or mechanic if you are unsure about any aspect of the replacement process.
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Testing ignition coils
Step 1: Locate the ignition coil
Ignition coils are usually located above the engine and can be easily accessed by removing the front cover. Most modern vehicles use one ignition coil per cylinder, while older vehicles may have a single coil for the entire engine or share a coil between two cylinders.
Step 2: Power balance test
Turn on the engine and disconnect an individual ignition coil. If you hear a decrease in RPMs, this indicates that the ignition coil on that cylinder is functioning correctly. If you disconnect a coil and don't hear any difference, the coil is malfunctioning.
Step 3: Run a resistance test
Use a multimeter to measure the resistance of the ignition coil. If the resistance is outside the specified range, the ignition coil is faulty and should be replaced.
Step 4: Spark test
If the multimeter readings are within range but you still suspect an issue, perform a spark test. Reinstall the ignition coil and connect a spark tester to the coil and a grounded part of the engine. Start the engine and look for a strong, blue spark. If no spark or a weak spark is visible, the ignition coil likely needs to be replaced.
Additional tips:
- A visual inspection of the ignition coil can also be done to look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, burn marks, corrosion, or melted plastic on the coil housing.
- An oscilloscope can be used to provide a detailed analysis of the ignition coil's voltage output.
- An OBD-II scanner can help identify trouble codes related to ignition system failures.
- If the resistance readings and spark test indicate no issues but symptoms persist, the problem may lie with another component, such as the spark plugs, ignition control module, or wiring.
By following these steps, you can quickly determine whether your ignition coil needs to be replaced and prevent potential issues down the line.
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Injector and ignition coil wiring colours
For a 2004 Ford Escape V6 engine, the injector and ignition coil wiring colours are not provided, but it is recommended to use a single M22759/32-20 12v feed for the injectors, split into six 22awg 12v supplies, and then 22awg for the ECU trigger. For ignition, a pair of 20awg wires split into three 22awg each for the coil 12v is suggested.
It is important to note that the wire size used in a wiring harness can impact its functionality and size. While 18 AWG wires are commonly used, they can make the harness bulky. As a result, smaller wire sizes, such as 22 AWG, are often preferred as they are more manageable and capable of handling the required current.
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Frequently asked questions
No, they are different components with separate functions.
Both the coils and injectors are powered directly from the ignition switch.
If you have a misfire that is worse when the car is in "Park" than in "Drive", then it is likely an injector problem. If the misfire occurs in both "Park" and "Drive", it may be an ignition coil issue.
Ignition coils can be pricey, at around $300 each, while fuel injectors and fuel lines can cost upwards of $1,350 to replace.
