* Driving conditions: Harsh conditions (extreme temperatures, constant high RPMs) can shorten their lifespan.
* Quality of the coil: Aftermarket coils vary in quality. A cheaper coil might fail sooner.
* Overall vehicle maintenance: A well-maintained vehicle generally has components that last longer.
Instead of a scheduled replacement, you should replace the ignition coil when it fails. Signs of a failing ignition coil can include:
* Misfires: The engine runs rough, hesitates, or lacks power. This is the most common symptom.
* Check engine light: The light will illuminate, often accompanied by a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) related to a misfire.
* Difficulty starting: The engine may crank but not start, or start intermittently.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's best to have a mechanic diagnose the problem. They can use diagnostic tools to pinpoint the faulty coil (or other potential issues) before replacing any parts. Replacing the wrong part could waste your money and time.
