Ignition Coil: What It Is and When to See a Mechanic in Tacoma
Your vehicle needs a strong, reliable spark to get moving—and that spark starts with the ignition coil. Since it transforms your battery’s low voltage into the high voltage your spark plugs need, the ignition coil is critical for starting your engine and keeping it running smoothly. Whether you’re commuting through Tacoma or taking a weekend drive, a healthy ignition coil ensures your engine fires up quickly and performs at its best.
At Meineke in Tacoma, our skilled technicians offer ignition coil inspections, replacements, and full ignition system services to keep your vehicle running strong. So, in this post, we’ll explain what an ignition coil is, how it works, why it’s important, how to maintain it, and when to see a mechanic.
What Is an Ignition Coil and How Does It Work?
The ignition coil is a small electrical transformer located near your engine. Since your car battery only provides about 12 volts, that isn’t enough to fire your spark plugs. So, the ignition coil boosts that voltage—up to 20,000 volts or more.
When you turn the key or push the start button, electricity flows from the battery to the ignition coil. Then, the coil multiplies the voltage and sends it to the spark plugs, which ignite the fuel-air mixture in each cylinder. Because this process happens rapidly and repeatedly, your ignition coil must work perfectly for smooth operation.
Why Is the Ignition Coil Important?
Even though it’s small, the ignition coil plays a big role in keeping your car running properly.
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Starts the engine – If the ignition coil works well, then your engine will start quickly and reliably.
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Ensures smooth acceleration – If the spark is strong, then your vehicle performs without hesitation.
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Improves fuel efficiency – If combustion is complete, then your car burns fuel more effectively.
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Reduces emissions – If the engine runs cleanly, then fewer pollutants are released into the air.
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Prevents misfires – If the coil delivers steady voltage, then the engine avoids rough running and shaking.
How to Maintain Your Coils
While ignition coils are built to last, good maintenance can help prevent unexpected failures.
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Check spark plugs regularly – If your spark plugs are old or dirty, then they can strain the coil.
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Inspect ignition wires – If your wires are cracked or loose, then voltage may not travel correctly.
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Keep moisture away – If water leaks into the ignition system, then the coil can short out.
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Watch for engine warning lights – If the check engine light appears, then coil trouble may be the cause.
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Schedule regular tune-ups – If your ignition system is inspected often, then small problems can be caught early.
When to See a Mechanic in Tacoma
A faulty ignition coil can cause noticeable performance issues. Visit Meineke in Tacoma if:
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Your engine misfires, shakes, or runs rough
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Your car is slow to start or doesn’t start at all
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You notice poor fuel mileage or sluggish acceleration
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Your check engine light comes on and stays on
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You smell fuel or notice black smoke from the exhaust
So, Call Meineke in Tacoma Today for an Ignition Coil Check-Up
Since your ignition coil is responsible for powering your engine’s spark, keeping it in good condition is key to safe, efficient driving. But if your car hesitates, misfires, or struggles to start, Meineke in Tacoma is here to help. Whether you need a simple test, a coil replacement, or a full ignition system service, our ASE-certified technicians will get your vehicle back in top shape. So, don’t ignore the warning signs—call Meineke today for a quick ignition coil check-up.
If the Meineke in Tacoma is not convenient, also check out these other locally-owned Meineke locations in Washington:
Meineke Car Care Center – North Meridian
433 North Meridian
Puyallup, WA 98371
253-848-2532
Meineke Car Care Center – South Meridian
4021 South Meridian
Puyallup, WA 98373
253-845-2153
Meineke Car Care Center – State Ave
10501 State Ave
Marysville, WA 98271
360-658-4263
Meineke Car Care Center – Firdale Ave
23900 Firdale Ave
Edmonds, WA 98020
206-533-0072
Meineke Car Care Center – Logan Ave South
64 Logan Avenue South
Renton, WA 98057
425-255-8802
Meineke Car Care Center – Holgate Street
465 South Holgate Street
Seattle, WA 98134
206-324-4660
Meineke Car Care Center – 35th Avenue SW
9201 35th Avenue SW
West Seattle, WA
98126
206-759-3020
Meineke Car Care Center – 6th Avenue
3024 6th Avenue
Tacoma, WA 98406
253-627-6168
Meineke Car Care Center – Bridgeport Way
2701 Bridgeport Way West
University Place, WA 98466
253-564-5110
Meineke Car Care Center – 4th Avenue East
517 4th Avenue East
Olympia, WA 98501
360-357-8995
Meineke Car Care Center – Tacoma Way
8724 South Tacoma Way
Lakewood, WA 98499
253-581-1226
Meineke Car Care in Tacoma, WA
