How to tell if my ignition control module is bad?
Signs of a Bad Ignition Module
- Acceleration Issues. The vehicle may shake, vibrate or jerk when the gas pedal is pressed. There may be hesitation or lack of power during increases in speed.
- Temperature Problems. A faulty ignition module can cause a vehicle to overheat.
- No Power. The engine may turn over without starting.
What causes an ignition control module to go out?
The cause of an ignition control module failure is often associated with age and damage from heat buildup. The correction for this issue becomes the replacement of the failed component.
What to put on ignition control module?
Most ignition control modules require a coat of silicone dielectric grease on the back of the unit prior to installation. The grease protects the module from overheating and circuit damage.
How does the electronic ignition control module work?
The electronic ignition control module is a solid state “On/Off” switch for the ignition system. The module receives a signal from a sensor inside the distributor. The signal is then used to fire the ignition coil creating the energy for the spark plugs.
Is the ignition control module sensitive to heat?
The ignition control module in your vehicle controls ignition spark sequence and fires the ignition coil as well. However, this electronic component is very sensitive to heat.
How can you tell if an ignition control module is still running?
Check for voltage at the coil positive terminal when the ignition key is on. Place the red lead of the multimeter on the positive coil terminal. Place the black lead to the battery negative terminal. Turn on the ignition switch to the “Run” position.
Where is the distributor on an ignition module?
Install the distributor on the engine following the match-mark and install the distributor cap. Look for the ignition coil and module assembly. Follow the spark plug wires starting at the spark plugs. The wires connect to the coil and module assembly, which may be mounted on the back of the engine.
What does a control unit on an ignition module do?
An ignition module, also known as a control unit or an ignitor, creates the amount of energy needed for a spark plug to ignite and controls the ignition timing. Over time, your ignition module can get damaged by heat.
What does it mean when an ignition unit is damaged?
An ignition module, also known as a control unit or an ignitor, creates the amount of energy needed for a spark plug to ignite and controls the ignition timing. Over time, your ignition module can get damaged by heat. A sign of faulty ignition module can be an engine that will crank but won’t start.
Can a misfire destroy an ignition control module?
Wells Test sheets are available for most ignition modules. A misfire condition can destroy the ignition module. If the engine is or has been misfiring, do not install the new ignition module until after the source of the misfire has been corrected. Check the secondary ignition circuit; Plugs, Plug Wires, Coil (s), Distributor Cap and Rotor.