How To Deal With Volkswagen Ignition Coil Failure

In Volkswagen, critical engine components work in tandem to deliver the performance that makes your driving experience enjoyable. One such component is the engine’s ignition coil, which, upon failure, can even cause the engine to shut down.

The ignition coil in the engine amplifies the current from the vehicle’s battery. The amplified current is then sent to the spark plug in the engine cylinder, creating an electric spark between the spark plug gap. This spark ignites the fuel-air mixture in the cylinder, and combustion occurs.

Modern Volkswagens equipped with TSI and TSFI engines feature a ‘coil-on-plug‘ ignition system, which places individual ignition coils directly on top of each spark plug, eliminating the need for plug wires. This is a more efficient, precise, and practical design; however, it comes with its own flaws. To address ignition coil failure, you, as an owner, must first understand the factors that contribute to ignition coil failure. Here is what our expert technicians at A & P Specialties have to say about ignition coil failure near Portland.

Factors Behind Ignition Coil Failure

Worn Spark Plug

With age, the spark plug becomes worn down, increasing the gap between its two ends. This causes the ignition coil to produce a higher voltage, resulting in excess strain on the component. This exertion causes the wearing of the coil’s internal winding, overheating, and finally burnout.

Thermal Stress

Situated on top of the spark plug on the cylinder, the ignition coils of the Volkswagen are constantly exposed to the engine’s heat. Over thousands of heat and cool cycles, the epoxy insulation on the coil becomes brittle and cracks. This crack exposes the internal wiring of the coil. This causes short-circuiting and ultimately ignition coil failure.

Vibration Damage

The ignition coil, apart from heat, also experiences constant vibration from the engine due to its placement. After thousands of hours of continuous vibration, the internal winding of the ignition coil gets loose. This results in inconsistent spark, and if ignored, can lead to complete ignition coil failure.

Fluid Contamination

The valve cover gasket on the engine, if it leaked, could cause ignition coil failure. The leaked gasket causes fluid seepage, which flows onto the spark plug and ignition coil. This saturates the coil boot, damages the insulation, degrades the rubber, and arcs the spark away from plug ends. This ultimately led to coil failure and engine misfire.

When the ignition coil malfunctions, it affects the spark and subsequently the combustion, ultimately negatively impacting the engine’s function. Common signs of an ignition coil malfunction include engine misfires, rough idling, reduced power output, poor acceleration, decreased fuel economy, and difficulty starting the vehicle.

Diagnosis, Repair, and Maintenance of A Spark Plug in Volkswagen

• Diagnosis inspection: The diagnosis inspection offers insight into the cause and origin of the damage in the spark plug. The Volkswagen-specific diagnosis tool is connected to the vehicle’s control unit, and the cylinder error codes, such as P0301, are analyzed. This provides the information on the cause of the damage and its origin.
• Repair Process: Technicians specializing in Volkswagen then perform the repair for the damaged component. The damaged components were repaired or replaced, depending on the extent of the damage. For any type of repair and replacement, use OEM-made parts and components for optimal performance and longevity. It is recommended to replace all spark plugs at the same time to prevent future repeated failures.
• Preventive Maintenance: Preventive maintenance steps help you prolong the longevity of your Volkswagen’s spark plug. The steps include strict adherence to the spark plug service schedule, immediate addressing of oil leaks, regular inspections, and the use of OEM-made parts and brand-verified fluids for servicing your Volkswagen.

Portland’s Premier Volkswagen Service Center: A & P Specialties

A & P Specialties is the ultimate destination for German auto owners of Volkswagen, Porsche, and Audi, offering comprehensive repair and maintenance services. Our repair shop employs expert, ASE-certified, and RepairPal-certified mechanics with extensive experience working with German car models, including Volkswagen. We use OEM-made components and brand-approved fluids for all our repairs. Our 36-month/36,000-mile warranty backs our work. We also provide loaner cars for the convenience of our customers.

Since 1985, we have been operating in the Montavilla Neighborhood, with our shop located at 707 SE 82nd Ave, serving the German auto owners of Portland and its surrounding areas.