Dec 8, 2023
The interior of a Lincoln Corsair

Image via Bob Maxey Lincoln.

The role of the ignition coil is to convert the battery’s low electric current into the high voltage required to ignite the air and fuel mixture to start the engine. A faulty ignition coil can cause various vehicle issues, from increased fuel consumption and backfires to hard starts. If your Lincoln shows any of the signs below, rely on expert repairs from the certified technicians at your Lincoln dealer.

1. The Check Engine Light Is On

If there’s a problem with your ignition coil, your car’s computer will detect it and trigger the check engine light. It’s crucial to take this warning seriously and have your Lincoln technician address the issue as soon as possible to prevent any further damage.

2. Your Car Consumes More Fuel

If the ignition coil fails to generate enough electricity for the spark plugs, they can spark inconsistently or not at all. This results in lower power output, causing the engine to burn more fuel than necessary and you to spend more money on gas. 

3. Your Car Is Slow

A malfunctioning ignition coil can lead to performance issues. The failing coil can cause inconsistent sparks, leading to the incomplete combustion of air and fuel, resulting in lower engine power when you step on the gas pedal. 

4. Your Car Jerks, Shakes, and Idles Roughly

A bad ignition coil can cause your car to vibrate. You may also feel your car shaking and jerking when you accelerate in a failed attempt to increase your speed. 

5. You Hear Sputtering Noises From Under the Hood

If your car makes sputtering noises under the hood when you turn the key in the ignition, it could be a sign of a bad ignition coil. The failing coil may cause a cylinder not to fire properly during the ignition process.

6. Your Car Misfires 

When one of your engine’s cylinders fails to ignite incorrectly or not at all, it may lead to misfiring, which could cause significant damage to various components. When your car misfires, take action immediately and schedule an appointment to prevent irreversible damage under the hood. 

7. You Struggle To Start Your Car

When it’s hard to get your car going, or it stalls frequently, there could be many different issues causing the problem. A failing ignition coil not supplying the necessary electric current to the spark plugs could be the culprit.

If you experience any of the above signs of a failing ignition coil, don’t wait until the problem causes more damage and expensive repairs. Call Bob Maxey Lincoln now to schedule an appointment, and the certified Lincoln technicians will ensure your vehicle performs at its best.