Ignition Coil Testing and Replacement

4-Cylinder Models
TESTING
PROCEDURE

1. Turn the ignition off (key must be in the OFF position).
2. Remove the distributor cap, rotor, and protective shield.
3. Disconnect the electrical connectors from the ignition coil primary circuit.
4. Using an ohmmeter, measure the resistance between the primary coil terminals (A and B). Compare the reading with the Specifications.

5. Next, measure the resistance between the positive primary terminal (A) and the secondary terminal. Again, compare the reading with the Specifications.

6. Note that the specified winding resistance values change with temperature. The Specifications list nominal values for a coil temperature of 21°C.
7. If the result of either of the last two measurements is outside the permissible range, replace the ignition coil.

REPLACEMENT
PROCEDURE

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.

If the vehicle is equipped with an audio system with an anti-theft code, make sure you have the correct code to reactivate the audio system before disconnecting the battery!
2. Remove the distributor cap and protective shield (if equipped) (see Maintenance and Tune-Up chapter). Disconnect the leads from the primary coil terminals.

3. Remove the two mounting screws and remove the ignition coil from the distributor assembly.

4. Installation is the reverse of removal.

4-Cylinder Models
TESTING
PROCEDURE

1. Turn the ignition off (key must be in the OFF position).
2. Disconnect the high-tension lead from the secondary (coil) terminal.
3. Remove the 3-pin connector from the ignition coil primary terminals.

4. Using an ohmmeter, measure the resistance between terminals (1 and 3) of the primary coil winding. Compare the measured result with the Specifications.

5. Connect the ohmmeter between the center terminal (2) and the secondary winding terminal. Compare the measured result with the Specifications.
6. Note that the resistance values of the windings change with temperature. The Specifications list nominal values for a coil temperature of 21°C.
7. If the result of either of the last two checks is outside the permissible range, replace the ignition coil.

REPLACEMENT
PROCEDURE

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.

If the vehicle's audio system is equipped with an anti-theft code, make sure you have the correct code to reactivate the audio system before disconnecting the battery!
2. Disconnect the wiring harness from the ignition coil.

3. Remove the mounting bolts and remove the ignition coil.

4. Install in the reverse order of removal.