Automobiles rely on several systems to function and provide safe transportation for drivers and passengers. Among the most essential is the automotive’s ignition system. This system consists of various components that create a spark to ignite the fuel-air mixture in a vehicle’s engine, which then powers the automobile.

Given its significance, a vehicle’s ignition system must be properly cared for, making accurate diagnostics crucial. NYADI The College of Transportation Technology in Jamaica, New York, offers automotive academic programs that introduce students to the importance of automotive ignition systems diagnostics and how to perform this service. Here, we detail what an electronic ignition system is, and the common issues students will learn how to address at NYADI.

Understanding Electronic Ignition Systems

The purpose of an electronic ignition system is to generate a high-voltage spark to ignite the air-fuel mixture that powers a gasoline engine, enabling the car or truck to move. The system uses sensors to control transistors that produce electric pulses. The pulses then turn the primary coil current on and off, which creates a high voltage in the secondary coil. This high voltage is applied to the spark plug, which ignites the fuel.

A vehicle’s ignition system is made up of the following main parts:

• Battery: An automobile’s battery provides the voltage (usually 12 volts) needed to start the engine.
• Ignition switch: This component connects the circuit that powers the starter motor, which cranks the engine over and starts it.
• Ignition coil: The ignition coil converts the battery’s low voltage into a higher voltage (up to 40,000 volts) to create an electric spark and ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine’s cylinders.
• Distributor: An ignition systems’ distributor routes the high-voltage current to the spark plugs in the correct order
• Spark plugs: These parts are in each cylinder of the engine and help ignite the fuel-air mixture.

Common Issues With an Ignition System

An issue with a vehicle’s ignition system can occur for several reasons, including:

• Faulty spark plugs: If spark plugs are worn out and no longer working properly, they can draw more charge than normal from the engine, which can damage the ignition coil over time.
• Bad ignition switch: This problem can prevent the vehicle from starting or cause a running engine to shut down.
• Old battery: An old or damaged car battery needs to be replaced for the vehicle to start.
• Wiring issues: Ignition systems are susceptible to problems caused by faulty or damaged wiring.
• Issues with the sensors: Defective sensors can cause misfires, lack of power, poor gas mileage, or prevent the vehicle from turning over.

Ignition System Diagnostics

Vehicles experiencing a problem that stems from the ignition system will display warning signs. Most commonly, the check engine light will appear on the dashboard. Drivers will need to bring their car or truck to a certified service technician who is trained in performing accurate ignition system diagnostics.

Ignition system diagnostics can involve a variety of tests and checks, including:

• Visual inspection: Certified auto mechanics usually begin by checking the vehicle’s ignition system for damage, corrosion, or wear on components.
• Diagnostic scan: For a more in-depth analysis, service techs might use a scan tool to check the vehicle’s computer system for error codes.
• Functional tests: If certified services technicians still can’t identify the source of the problem, they might perform additional checks, such as voltage and circuit testing, to assess the functionality of the ignition components.

Students will learn the various techniques of accurate ignition system diagnostics when enrolled in NYADI’s degree and certificate programs, such as:

• Automotive Technology degree program
• Automotive and Diesel Technology degree program
• Automotive Service Technology certificate program
• Truck and Diesel Service Technology certificate program
• Collision Repair Technology certificate program

Learn How to Enroll Today

Receive quality training that covers various automotive systems when you enroll at NYADI. Based in Jamaica, NY, our programs follow the standards set forth by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Students will be introduced to several critical aspects of automotive serving, including ignition system diagnostics. Students will be able to apply what they learned to explore a variety of roles in the automotive serving industry.

In addition to quality education, NYADI also offers financial aid opportunities to students who qualify. Contact an admissions representative to learn more about how to enroll today.