ABOUT USED IGNITIONS

WHAT IS THE IGNITION?

The ignition is the part of the car that generates the heat or the spark that ignites the fuel-air mix in an internal combustion engine.

WHAT DOES THE PART DO?

The ignition produces a spark. This spark will ignite the fuel-air mix that allows an internal combustion engine to operate.

WHAT DOES THE PART LOOK LIKE?

The ignition is part of the larger ignition system that includes the ignition switch, the battery, the coil and the distributor. The ignition switch itself is a small cylinder located on the steering column or dash. At the internal end of the ignition is a set of wires that measure about three to four inches long. The ignition coil is a spring-like device located inside a cylinder. The distributor has four inputs located at its top with a single connector facing downward.

WHERE IS THERE PART TYPICALLY LOCATED ON THE VEHICLE?

The ignition is typically located on the steering column. However, there are some vehicles which will have the ignition located on the dashboard on either the right side or the left side of the steering wheel. From there, the ignition system extends inside the vehicle where the engine is located.

WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN A USED IGNITION?

You want to check and see if the low-tension connectors are tight and free from corrosion. You also want to make sure that the LT wires have sound insulation and have no cracks, kinks or breaks. Also be sure to check the distributor for plug caps and breaks.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT AN IGNITION BEFORE I PURCHASE ONE?

There are three types of ignition systems:

• Conventional breaker point ignition (used since the early 1900s)
• Electronic ignitions (used since the early 1970s)
• Distributorless ignitions (used since the mid-1980s)

WHAT OTHER PARTS ARE CONNECTED OR THAT I MAY NEED FOR THIS PART?

Parts connected or associated with the ignition include the spark plugs, ignition coil, distributor and wires. Also, the battery is connected to the ignition system.

WHAT SIGNS OF WEAR SHOULD I LOOK AT WHEN BUYING A USED IGNITION?

If the ignition is hooked up to a vehicle and the check engine light comes on, then the ignition could have an issue. Also, cracked or broken wires are common with an old ignition. Also check for any signs of corrosion. Corrosion will appear as orange or green stains.

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF AN IGNITION?

By Federal law, an ignition must be warrantied for at least two year or 24,000 miles. However, the ignition coils are designed to last for 100,000 miles.

WHEN SHOULD THE PART BE REPLACED?

You should consider replacing the ignition if you notice any of the following signs on your vehicle:

• The vehicle is unable to start
• The ignition is requires more fuel to run
• There is less power transferred during vehicle operation

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PISTONS

HOW MUCH IS AN IGNITION SYSTEM?

The average cost of an ignition coil is about $260 to $370.

CAN A LOCKSMITH CHANGE AN IGNITION SWITCH?

Yes. A locksmith can change an ignition switch.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF A BAD IGNITION COIL?

Signs of a bad ignition coil include engine misfire, rough idle, a decrease in vehicle power, and exhaust backfiring.

CAN I DRIVE WITH A BAD IGNITION COIL?

It is possible to drive with a bad ignition coil but not advisable.

SHOULD YOU REPLACE ALL IGNITION COILS AT ONCE?

No. Only replace the coils that are faulty. In fact, it is not a good idea to replace coils that are in good condition. One coil pack is good for two engine cylinders.