Failure of ignition coils can be a common occurrence in an Audi. The ignition coil, also known as a spark coil, facilitates starting of the car engine. Thousands of volts are required to initiate the ignition of the spark plug. However, the car’s battery only provides a voltage of mere 12 volts. To supplement this, the ignition coil acts as a powerful transformer, transforming the 12 volts into thousands of volts, which are needed for the spark plug to create a spark. This spark is essential for combustion, which directly causes your Audi’s engine to start up. Let’s look at some of the reasons behind the dysfunction of the ignition coils.
Causes of Ignition Coil failure
- Heat and Vibration: Coils are usually not susceptible to normal wear and tear, the way brakes or tires However, the position of their placement can lead to internal failure. Coils are commonly bolted to the cylinder head, either on top or inside the cylinder well. Thousands of miles of vibrations and high temperatures can cause the insulating material to break down and cause internal failure.
- Moisture: Moisture is another leading cause of ignition coil failures, usually from leaking engine oil, condensation, and other fluid leaks.
- Spark plug: A spark plug is a secondary ignition component. Excessively worn-out spark plugs can put extra stress on ignition coils. This is because the aging of the spark plug leads to the widening of its gap. This forces the ignition coil to produce an even higher voltage. Continuous production of higher voltage puts extreme strain on the component and leads to premature failure.
Symptoms of a Faulty Ignition Coil
- Engine Misfiring, or Backfiring: Misfires are often characterized by a coughing or sputtering noise, or a jerk or strong vibration. They are a result of one of the engine cylinders not firing correctly due to the lack of the spark. Backfires are also a common symptom. They are accompanied by loud, banging noise and sometimes black smoke also comes out of the exhaust pipe.
- Check Engine Light: This dashboard warning indicator is designed to tell you if there is a problem with the engine. It can also turn on due to a variety of other reasons. However, it should never be ignored, and you should call our technicians to take care of your Audi as soon as possible.
- Fuel Consumption: An increase in fuel consumption is another common symptom of a faulty ignition coil, because if the spark plug is not receiving enough power, your Audi will compensate by increasing the fuel consumption.
Hazards of Not Replacing a Failed Ignition Coil
An Audi with a failed ignition coil will lack power and run poorly. Sometimes, it may not even run at all. Driving with a bad ignition coil that misfires can also cause the catalytic converter to overheat and melt. This will harm the oxygen sensors due to the fuel that is going into the exhaust system. Replacement of a catalytic converter is an extremely expensive process.
Moreover, a faulty ignition coil can in some cases also damage the engine’s computer. It is not advisable to drive a car with a worn-out ignition coil. If you are in a dire situation, you can drive your Audi in a careful manner to our garage so our technicians can repair it; otherwise, it may need to be towed.
DART Auto is Here to Help
For many years DART Auto has proudly served Denver, CO and the surrounding cities like Centennial, Englewood, and Littleton. 
We employ top technicians extremely skilled at their work and who are dedicated to expertly repairing your Audi. We believe in quality services and repairs done right, without the need for repeat visits and expensive add-ons.
We use factory-grade parts for all services so that we can guarantee the highest quality possible, and you can drive your Audi with confidence at its full potential.
We are also an active member of the Porsche Club of America racing and driver’s education programs. Owner, David Banazek has been active in PCA club racing, NASA, SCCA & WRL racing for many years.
In addition, DART Auto has more than 200 reviews on google by satisfied customers rewarding us with a nearly 5-star rating across the board. Our customer’s happiness and satisfaction is our top priority so we also offer a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on all our labor.
Call us at 303-296-1188 or drop by for a visit so our skilled technicians can bring your Audi back to its full potential and power.
