What Parts Make Up the Ignition System?

Spark Plug

Spark Plug Wire Set

An electrical device that is connected to a high voltage source. The high voltage travels down an electrode inside the spark plug and arcs across an air gap, thereby creating the spark that starts the combustion process in the combustion chamber.

Check manufacturer replacement recommendations for efficient drive-ability and proper vehicle maintenance.

Spark Plug Wire Set

Spark Plug Wire Replacement, Tune Up, SW Houston Auto Repair, Professional Auto Care, Misfire Repair

They transfer the spark from the distributor or ignition coil to the spark plugs that ignite the air-fuel mixture.

Ignition Coil(s)

Spark Plug Wire Set

Ignition Coil(s)

Ignition Coil Replacement, Tune Up, SW Houston Auto Repair, Professional Auto Care, Misfire Repair

Transfers the low 12-volt battery ignition primary current into the high voltage secondary current that fires the spark in the plugs.

How does the Ignition System Work?

The engine computer determines when the spark should happen by the signal it receives from the crankshaft position sensor. The timing is further fine-tuned according to readings from other sensors such as the knock sensor, which listens for the noise created when the spark happens too early, the throttle position sensor, and the mass air flow or manifold pressure sensors. A variety of sensors are used to ensure proper timing of the engine spark.

When the engine computer activates the coil, the high voltage jumps the gap between the electrode and group strap on the spark plug, igniting the compressed fuel and air in the cylinder to create an explosion that pushes the piston downwards.

Failed or worn ignition system components cause misfires - where the fuel is not burned correctly in the cylinder. This causes rough running, loss of power, and increased fuel consumption.

The ignition coil and spark plug are the primary elements of the ignition system, providing the voltage to create a spark.

Check Out Cool video

The ignition system creates the spark that ignites fuel and air in a gas engine.

Here is a great video which demonstrates the vital role of your vehicle's smooth operation.

Note: The video does pause at times to highlight certain events, like when the spark plug ignites!

Watch Video!

Profession Auto Care is the premier auto repair and car maintenance shop in Southwest Houston. Waiting until your vehicle is running rough or changing many different ignition components when doing a tune up are things of the past. Today's vehicle require periodic maintenance to ensure they stay in operating shape. It is important to follow manufacturer specifications where on some Jeeps it can be spark plug replacement every 30,000 and while on some Toyota cars every 105,000 miles. Speak to a Service Consultant today to see what fits your and your vehicle's needs best.

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What Parts Make Up the Ignition System?

Spark Plug

Spark Plug Wire Set

Spark Plug Wire Set

Spark Plug Wire Set

Spark Plug Wire Set

Spark Plug Wire Set

Ignition Coil(s)

Spark Plug Wire Set

Ignition Coil(s)

How does the Ignition System Work?

Check Out Cool video

Fuel/Air Induction System Maintenance Service

Animation of a spark plug in action!