If your car stalls, jerks, or won’t start, the ignition system is often the culprit. Most drivers think it’s the battery, but more often it’s a spark plug or coil that’s gone flat. Knowing the tell‑tale signs saves you time, money, and a lot of frustration.
Start with the obvious: does the engine turn over slowly or not at all? A weak crank can mean a dead battery, but if you hear a click and the engine sputters, look at the spark plugs. Bad spark plugs cause rough idling, sluggish acceleration, and a loss of power. You’ll notice a misfire that feels like a stumble every few seconds.
Another clue is the smell of fuel that never burns. If the engine revs but the car doesn’t move, the spark isn’t firing at the right time. Check the ignition coil – a cracked coil will give inconsistent sparks and trigger the check‑engine light. A quick visual inspection of plugs for carbon buildup or worn electrodes often reveals the problem.
Replacing spark plugs is one of the easiest DIY jobs. Just pull the old plug with a socket, check the gap on the new one (most kits come pre‑gapped), and torque it to manufacturer specs. If you’re still getting a misfire after a fresh set, the coil or ignition wires might be faulty. In that case, swapping the coil is the next step – it’s usually a bolt‑on part.
When the issue persists, it could be deeper: a failing crankshaft position sensor or a damaged ignition control module. These parts need a proper scan tool and often require professional equipment. If the car won’t start at all, or you see a flashing “engine” light with no obvious plug problem, it’s time to book a service.
Regular maintenance keeps ignition issues at bay. Change plugs every 30,000‑50,000 miles, use the right heat‑range for your engine, and keep the coil boots clean. A quick check at the start of each season can catch wear before it turns into a costly repair.
At Northwich Tyres Centre we can test your ignition system, fit new spark plugs, and advise whether a coil replacement is needed. Drop by for a fast diagnosis and get back on the road with confidence.
27 June 2025
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