Ignition Systems: Key Tips

Understanding Ignition Systems: The advantages and disadvantages of three common ignition systems

While automotive technology has changed drastically throughout history, there’s one constant that all automotive combustion engines have in common: an ignition system. In this article, we touch on the features of three ignition systems, as well as advantages and disadvantages of each.

Sponsored by Autolite

While automotive technology has changed drastically throughout history, there’s one constant that all automotive combustion engines have in common: an ignition system. In this article, we touch on the features of three ignition systems, as well as advantages and disadvantages of each.

High Energy (Electronic) Ignition System

High energy ignition (HEI) was introduced by General Motors in 1974 and became the standard for GM engines until the mid-1980s. An HEI system has three main components: an ignition module, a magnetic, pick-up coil and a high-tension coil. HEI systems use a transistorized switch within the ignition module to generate high-voltage current from the ignition coil. This transistor is the primary advantage of an HEI system because it generates a consistent, high voltage spark throughout the life of the engine, meaning fewer misfires and longer spark plug life at around 25,000 miles. Non-mechanical transistors also eliminate breaker point wear. However, one disadvantage of HEI systems is the conventional distributor cap and rotor that will eventually wear and require replacing. Also, the ignition timing cannot be as precisely controlled as with more sophisticated systems.

Distributor-less “Wasted Spark” Ignition System

This aptly-named ignition system was introduced in the 1988 and improves on the HEI system by eliminating the distributor cap and rotor entirely. Instead, multiple ignition coils are used – one for each pair of cylinders. These ignition coils fire two spark plugs simultaneously; one on the compression stroke and one on the exhaust stroke. The spark delivered on the exhaust stroke, called a “waste spark” has no effect. This system has several advantages, including fewer moving parts and more precise control of spark timing, which can improve engine efficiency, emissions and performance. Unfortunately, a lack of moving parts can make ignition system problems more difficult to diagnose. These systems also require double platinum plugs due to the additional wear caused by reverse firing.

Coil-on-Plug (Direct) Ignition System

The direct ignition system (DIS) became popular in the late 1990s and is considered the most sophisticated of all ignitions systems. DIS places an ignition coil directly on the top of each spark plug, which provides several benefits. Because each spark plug has its own dedicated coil, DIS systems create hotter, high-voltage sparks without high-voltage spark plug wires, lowering resistance and preventing misfires. An engine control unit (ECU) uses input from various sensors to precisely control ignition timing for lower emissions. There are disadvantages, as well. DIS systems are more expensive and can be more expensive to repair. Due to high heat and voltage, DIS systems come from the factory with iridium spark plugs and only iridium spark plugs should be used for replacement. And like waste spark systems, a lack of moving parts can make ignition system problems more difficult to diagnose.

Conclusion

Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of each ignition system type is beneficial when recommending the right spark plug. Visit: https://www.autolite.com/products/spark-plugs/ to learn about Autolite’s premium spark plug options for each of these ignition systems.

This article was sponsored by Autolite.

You May Also Like

Digital Enablement Strategies for Parts Manufacturers

The digitization of the parts industry has ushered in a new era of opportunities and challenges. Manufacturers are now confronted with increased competition, the necessity to acquire new skills and technologies, and adapting to rapidly evolving consumer expectations. However, this transformation also offers significant opportunities, such as a wider customer reach, direct customer engagement, and

The digitization of the parts industry has ushered in a new era of opportunities and challenges. Manufacturers are now confronted with increased competition, the necessity to acquire new skills and technologies, and adapting to rapidly evolving consumer expectations.

However, this transformation also offers significant opportunities, such as a wider customer reach, direct customer engagement, and refined data analytics. Harnessing these aspects is key to thriving in today's market.

OE CV Axle Trends for Today’s More Demanding Drivetrains

Today’s vehicle drivetrain systems are far more complex and powerful than ever before. So, you want to make sure you choose a replacement axle that matches the original OE design attributes to ensure proper performance and durability. Avoid installing an inferior axle based on price only, that may not perform properly or worse yet, fail

Engineering For Excellence – MEYLE HD Solves Tesla Noisy Control Arm Issues

By Stefan Bachmann, Head of Steering & Suspension, MEYLE HD The effort that goes into creating one of the world’s most technologically advanced electric vehicles is staggering, and the engineers at Tesla who developed the Model 3 and the Model Y should be proud. However, they also should tip their caps to the engineering team

Understanding Intermediate Shafts: What are they… and what do they do?

Intermediate shafts, often referred to as “stub shafts” or “inner shafts” act as the link that couples the CV axle to the transaxle or differential. They allow for the removal and installation of CV axle assemblies without the need to disturb or replace the transaxle or differential oil seal. Use of an intermediate shaft to

Protecting Your Vehicle in the Winter

Depending on where you live, autumn is an idyllic time of year with bright colors and mild temperatures.  If there is one downside though, it means that winter is on its way, which means frigid temperatures, snow, ice and difficult road conditions. The lifespans of cars and trucks are increasing all the time, so protecting

Other Posts

What Causes Fuel Pumps to Fail?

Like most vehicle components, natural wear and tear is the unavoidable cause for parts replacement.  Fuel pumps are often out of sight and out of mind for most shop visitors. That’s because they are an as-needed repair and not typically a part of ongoing maintenance. Nevertheless, if you diagnose fuel pump failure, customers will want

THE ROAD TO ELECTRIC VEHICLES: PROTECTION, MANUFACTURING SHIFTS, AND SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES

The automotive industry is evolving at a rapid pace, consistently under pressure to cater to customer preferences and determine how to deliver final products at a time when demand is high and inventory cannot keep up. After years of manufacturing shutdowns, limited numbers of employees, and delays up and down the supply chain, automotive manufacturers

Helping Customers Understand the Signs of Fuel Pump Failure

Fuel pump failures are never a one-size-fits-all diagnosis.  Different symptoms indicate different problems and often, the pump will still function—albeit erratically—as it fails. Explaining this to customers isn’t always easy, especially because many of them may not know that the fuel pump has more than one role. Shop owners and technicians can help customers understand

Updating Your Shop’s Approach to Vehicle Filtration 

Customers may wonder what the biggest threats are to their engines.  Heat is one for sure. But the other are tiny – often microscopic – particles. If these aren’t filtered thoroughly, they will accumulate inside the engine, which will increase friction, heat and lead to significant damage to internal engine components. In time, it will