Toyota Ignition Coil Buyer's Guide
The ignition coil is a key part of your car's ignition system. It is responsible for transforming low-voltage power from the battery into the high-voltage spark needed to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the engine. Coils are highly durable and reliable components but occasionally wear out, causing a variety of symptoms.
If you think you've got a problem with one of your ignition coils and aren't sure where to start, you're in luck. This buyer's guide covers everything you need to know about ignition coils, their job, and how to replace them.
What Is An Ignition Coil, And Why Is It Important?
An ignition coil is an essential component of internal combustion engines. Its primary function is to convert the 12-volt electricity from the battery into a high-voltage current needed to create a spark for the spark plug. This high-voltage spark is what ignites the fuel and initiates the combustion process, powering your vehicle.
Check out this article to learn more about ignition coils.
Signs Of A Failing Ignition Coil
Even though ignition coils are designed to last a long time, they eventually wear out. Over time, factors like heat, vibration, and wear and tear eventually take their toll, causing the ignition coil to fail.
When an ignition coil starts to go bad, it will display one or more of the following symptoms:
- Misfires: Engine misfires cause a noticeable lack of power, rough idling, or even backfiring.
- Increased Fuel Consumption: A failing ignition coil may lead to incomplete combustion, causing the engine to run "rich," burning more fuel than normal.
- Poor Acceleration: The noticeable lack of power will cause sluggish acceleration in your vehicle, along with a general lack of responsiveness.
If left unaddressed, a failing ignition coil will eventually fail completely, causing your vehicle to stall or refuse to start. If your vehicle is displaying any of these symptoms, you can check the ignition coils for deteriorating insulation around the coil, cracks or damage to the coil casing, or carbon tracking or visible carbon deposits on the coil.
When it comes time for replacement, we have a huge selection of ignition coils to choose from. Here are some of our most popular:
- Direct Ignition Coil for Select 2003-2023 Models 90919-02260
- Direct Ignition Coil for Select 2007-2023 Models 90919-A2005
- Direct Ignition Coil for Select 2008-2022 Models 90919-02258
- Direct Ignition Coil for Select 1995-2004 Models 90919-02212
- Direct Ignition Coil for Select 2017-2023 Models 90919-A2013
For more info on how to diagnose a failing ignition coil, check out this post on our blog.
The Difference Between OEM And Aftermarket Ignition Coils
You may wonder if there is any difference between OEM and aftermarket ignition coils - especially if the aftermarket coil is cheaper to buy than the OEM part. However, genuine Toyota ignition coils provide better value due to their durability, which will save you money in the long run. Even though the aftermarket coil may be cheaper initially, the potential for frequent replacements and associated repair costs can quickly eat up any savings.
Additionally, OEM Toyota ignition coils provide the following benefits over their aftermarket equivalents:
- OEM coils are engineered for your Toyota vehicle. They are specifically designed to fit your vehicle, which makes them easier to install and helps them perform better.
- OEM coils are made from better-quality materials. They also undergo rigorous testing and quality control measures during the manufacturing process to ensure they meet Toyota's standards.
- OEM coils come with a Toyota manufacturer's warranty, which covers them for 12 months and unlimited mileage.
Check out this link for more on OEM vs. aftermarket ignition coils.
How To Replace A Toyota Ignition Coil
Changing an ignition coil is a fairly straightforward repair that the average home mechanic can do with a little time and some basic tools. Once you have the tools assembled and have parked your vehicle in a safe spot where no movement will occur, you're ready to go.
You'll typically find the ignition coils located on top of your vehicle's spark plugs. Depending on what engine you have, you may find them inserted through the valve cover. If you have trouble finding them, consult your vehicle's service manual to identify their location. You can learn more about the process here.
Find Genuine OEM Ignition Coils At Olathe Toyota Parts Center
At the Olathe Toyota Parts Center, we've got the parts you need for your ignition system at wholesale prices. All we carry are OEM parts, which are backed by the standard Toyota 12-month, unlimited-mile warranty.
We also have a number of free resources that can help you diagnose common Toyota trouble codes and a Toyota VIN decoder to provide info about your vehicle.
Contact us here if you've got questions, and our friendly staff will be glad to help!