How to identify a faulty ignition module

To check the state of the component, use measuring instruments (ohmmeter/multimeter). To check for a short circuit to the car body, connect one wire of the device to the central contact of the module, and the other one - to the car body. The device will not react if the module is in good working order. The outputs are to be checked in pairs. Connect the wires of the multimeter to the cylinders. The absence of device reaction is a symptom of malfunction.

To check primary circuits of the module, connect the wires of the ohmmeter to the terminals on the left and on the right. If there are no readings, the component is out of order. Compare the obtained data to the allowed values stated by the manufacturer.

The housing of the module should also be diagnosed. If damaged, the component should be replaced.

You may notice that the ignition system module requires diagnostics by the following symptoms:

• unstable engine operation;
• reduced engine power;
• activation of the engine emergency stop system;
• vehicle jerks during acceleration;
• no voltage at the second and third cylinders, or at the first and fourth cylinders.

The reasons of ignition system module malfunction

Common reasons of the absence of electric current in the ignition system module are broken wires, loose terminals connection or their fouling. Mechanical damage of the component is usually the result of physical impact during installation. Cracks in the housing of the component result in fouling of the inside elements, and their oxidation due to ingress of moisture.

The module also gets damaged in case of overheating. It may be caused by an internal short circuit, or by problems in the engine control system.

Errors in system operation may shorten the service life of the component. In particular, never leave ignition on if the engine is not started. The service life of the component also depends on its quality and compliance with the maintenance schedule.

Repairing the ignition system module

Only terminals may be repaired. To do this, remove the cover of the module housing, remove small wires from the printed circuit board, and install new ones. Also, the wires of transistors' controllers are to be replaced, and the place of soldering should be varnished.

Replacing the ignition system module

To replace the component, use a set of wrenches and a hexagon wrench. First, disconnect the negative terminal from the battery, and remove the terminal block. Then disconnect the high voltage wires and remove the fasteners to the engine. The next step is the installation of a new module. Connect the wires to the corresponding cylinders, and assemble the unit by doing the above steps in the reverse order.