Car ignition module

Ignition module controls ignition coil. A simple breaker contact was used before, but modern contact is more precise and rapid. It basically consists of a transistor that is used as an electronic switch. In the ignition coil, the 12 volts of the electrical system are transformed into a high voltage. By means of the ignition module or ignition switch the moment when voltage reaches spark plugs is determined. The spark plug produces a spark that ignites the fuel-air mixture.

In order the ignition module to work correctly, a sensor must be present, which determines the shift points. For example, are used inductive and Hall sensors. In modern cars ignition module is controlled by an electronic engine controller. If there is a failure, usually it is enough to diagnose the control unit. Some makers have implemented a complete ignition and switching function directly via the engine control unit. Ignition moment is defined by the ignition module. If ignition works unevenly or is faulty, the reason may be the failure of the ignition module. In this case a close examination of the entire ignition system can not be avoided.

Even a car owner can replace the ignition module. For safety reasons it is necessary to disconnect the lead from the battery. In many cars Torx screws are used for fixation. If you replace the ignition module for the first time, it is necessary to take a picture of the old module. Then it will be easier to assemble a new module. You can order brake calipers, brake hose, oil pump, side turn indicator, locking cylinder, condenser and many other car parts in our online shop. In our assortment there are car parts for many car brands and models. Search function makes your search very fast and easy.

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.