Key Signs Your BMW Has an Ignition Coil Malfunction

BMWs are known for their good performance, maneuverability and great engine power. Therefore, all the parts of the ignition system should function well in order to ensure good performance. One of the important elements of the ignition system is the ignition coil. This component transforms the low voltage from the battery into the high voltage required for creating a spark in the spark plug.

If the ignition coil starts to malfunction then your BMW will experience various problems concerning its engine performance. These may include misfires, poor acceleration, rough idle and bad mileage. Not addressing the problem will result in more complicated issues.

What Is the Function of an Ignition Coil in a BMW?

An ignition coil is an essential part of the combustion process. Your BMW engine needs a powerful spark to burn the air-fuel mixture that exists in the cylinders. The function of the ignition coil is to amplify the voltage from the battery and direct it to the spark plug.

Some modern BMW engines are equipped with an ignition coil for each cylinder. This allows the engine control module to manage the ignition more efficiently. In case of a weak or faulty ignition coil, the fuel mixture might fail to ignite correctly in the cylinder and will cause the engine to misfire and other issues with engine operation.

The Main Symptoms of a Faulty Ignition Coil in a BMW

Engine Misfire

Engine misfire is a very common symptom of faulty ignition coils. A faulty ignition coil cannot produce the necessary voltage to start combustion in the cylinder. You will experience hesitation, shaking or stumbling of the engine especially when you are trying to accelerate. Sometimes the engine malfunction light is triggered.

The main symptoms of the engine misfire are:

• Engine hesitation

• Shaking or vibration

• Unstable acceleration

• Power loss

• Engine malfunction light

Slow Acceleration

When you accelerate your BMW then it feels sluggish. The reason is a failed ignition coil because it prevents the production of power in some cylinders. This problem becomes more apparent during:

• Acceleration on highways

• Passing other cars on the road

• When driving uphill

• Acceleration from a standstill

Check Engine Light

Another issue with the ignition coil that is worth mentioning is the appearance of the check engine light on your dashboard. If the engine control system registers too many misfires or some ignition-related problems then it may store trouble codes.

The check engine light could stay lit or even start blinking in a more difficult situation. A diagnostic scan can help to identify the exact reason behind the misfire.

Engine hesitation or misfire under load

The ignition coil may work well under light driving conditions but not well under load. The car engine can function properly in regular driving conditions but start hesitating and misfiring under harder acceleration. This is because under load the ignition system should generate a proper and strong spark.

Common Causes of an Ignition Coil Failure

There are various reasons why an ignition coil could stop working. One of the most frequent reasons is age and normal wear-and-tear due to harsh conditions under which coils work.

Some examples of causes are as follows:

• Aging and wear-and-tear

• Heat from the engine

• Oil in the vicinity of the spark plug

• Water in the ignition area

• Broken wires and connectors

• Defective spark plugs

• Electrical problems

• Malfunctions of the coils

Diagnosis of the Faulty Component

Diagnostic services are essential to find the damaged component without unnecessary part replacement. The technician might look at the car's computer for stored codes of any faults. The ignition coils, spark plugs, electrical connections and other related components can be examined further.

In accordance with the model of the vehicle and the existing symptoms, the technician can test the coils in comparison with each other or conduct various other tests. If only the coil is replaced without checking the spark plugs and other components then the problem may reappear soon.

Conclusion

For any ignition coil problems and performance issues on your BMW car, our skilled team will ensure that your vehicle receives proper inspection and repairs. Your problem will be diagnosed and the root cause determined followed by offering the right solution for your car. You can visit us if you experience any signs of misfires, rough idling or other issues related to ignition problems in your BMW.

We at Swedish Auto Service are one of the most sought-after auto repair and service for the entire Austin area. We specialize in looking after European cars like BMW, Infiniti, Lexus, Mercedes, Saab, Subaru, and Volvo.