

Ignition and preheating is available for 176 car brands



































































































































Ignition and preheating manufacturers:
Ignition system: operating principle, malfunctions, maintenance, and replacement
An ignition system is designed to ignite the air-fuel mixture in petrol engines. It is used to convert low voltage into high voltage. It isn’t used in diesel engines, where the fuel ignites itself. However, especially on cold winter days, it’s necessary to warm up the air in the cylinders to start the engine. Glow plugs are used for this. Their function is to create the conditions needed for the fuel to ignite.
Main types
The following types of ignition systems can be defined according to their operating principle:
- Mechanical: accumulation and distribution of electric power is carried out by a distribution switch.
- Distributorless: a transistor switch and non-contact pulse sensor are responsible for accumulating and distributing energy.
- Electronic: an electronic device controls the processes of spark formation.
Glow plug systems can operate with:
- Single-stage heating: the glow plugs work up until the moment the engine starts.
- Two-stage heating: the glow plugs keep working for some time after the engine has been switched on.
Main components and performance features of the ignition system
When the key is turned in the ignition lock, the vehicle’s battery powers the primary winding of the ignition coil. A mechanical breaker or special sensors break the low voltage circuit, creating high voltage in the secondary winding of the ignition coil. After that, it is applied to the distributor and then – through high-voltage wires – to the spark plugs. A spark is created between the electrodes and fuel is ignited in the corresponding cylinder. Multi-coil systems don’t have a distributor because they produce high voltage alternately.
In diesel cars, voltage is applied to the relay when the key is turned. With a signal from the control unit, the relay closes the corresponding contacts and current is supplied to the glow plug. The system may also have sensors which regulate the duration of the post-heating.
Most common malfunctions
- Soot deposits cover spark plugs because of the use of poor-quality fuel, incorrect ignition timing, and worn-out oil-control rings and engine pistons.
- Broken electrical circuits where high-voltage wires are connected to the coil or plugs due to mechanical damage or contact oxidation.
- Ignition coils malfunctioning due to the use of poor-quality spark plugs, the engine overheating, or unstable operation of the battery and alternator.
- Glow sparks wearing out too quickly because of contaminated or faulty fuel injectors, or stuck relay contacts.
Proven ways to extend the service life of the system
To ensure efficient and flawless operation of the ignition system, it’s important to use high-quality spare parts and always make sure that they meet all the technical requirements of the vehicle. You should clean the spark plugs occasionally by running the engine at high RPMs for some time. It is also essential to use very good quality fuel and oil. It isn’t recommended to open the bonnet when it’s raining or snowing.
What you need to know about repairing the ignition system
As a rule, ignition system components shouldn’t be repaired: it isn’t advisable. After new components have been installed to replace faulty ones, adjustment is needed.
Motor-doctor.co.uk: only high-quality car parts for your vehicle
Would you like to buy high-quality ignition system components at a very good price? Choose items with discounts from our catalogue. The reliability of our products is supported by the warranty.
Greatly reduced prices on many brand-name spares
Free delivery for orders over £ 240
Your order will be dispatched as soon as possible after receipt of payment