How Much Does a Car Ignition Coil Cost to Replace?

Ignition coils are responsible for the ignition of your vehicle's engine, producing a high voltage spark to ignite the air-fuel mixture. Every time your car turns over, it is powered by the explosions of fuel and air that are created with these bright sparks. But like any part, your ignition coils will eventually fail due to age or other causes. But what does an ignition coil cost to replace?

On average, a mechanic will charge you between $150 and $300 for a pack of ignition coils and labor. The cost will depend on the make and model of your car, as well as local mechanics' rates.

A common sign that a car ignition coil is going out is a misfiring engine. This means that one or more of the cylinders are not burning their fuel correctly, which results in a lean or rich mix that causes unburned gas to escape into the exhaust. This can result in a jerking sensation when driving and reduces your fuel efficiency. If the ignition coil fails completely, your car will not start at all.

How long an ignition coil lasts depends on a variety of factors, such as the amount of moisture, the type of spark plugs you have, and whether your engine is running too hot or lean. Moisture can cause premature wear and corrosion, leading to failure. Heat and vibration can also damage an ignition coil's internal components, especially its insulation. These conditions can cause a loss of voltage, which causes the magnetic field to collapse.

If your ignition coils are not working properly, it may be necessary to replace them immediately. These parts are under a lot of strain, receiving countless zaps of high voltage from the battery and sending it to the spark plugs. But despite their strength and reliability, they are still susceptible to failure over time, especially when exposed to extreme heat or moisture.

Fortunately, the ignition coil is relatively easy to replace. In most vehicles, you can do it yourself, although the process varies depending on your engine and mechanical expertise. You will need to remove the valve cover, inspect and replace the gasket if needed, and then locate the ignition coils. Those on older engines with a waste spark system have one coil for each cylinder, while those on newer vehicles are often in a single molded unit called a coil pack.

You can find replacements online or at your local auto store. It is important to use high-quality parts, as these are the only ones that will be able to provide the proper voltage for ignition. You will also want to consider replacing the spark plugs at the same time, as a worn ignition coil can damage these important components and prevent them from firing properly.