Description
This course delivers an in‑depth exploration of modern automotive ignition systems, combining foundational theory with mind‑on diagnostic practice. Students learn how ignition components work together to initiate combustion, how control modules manage spark events, and how system design has evolved to advanced coil‑on‑plug architectures. The curriculum emphasizes practical, technician‑ready skills: interpreting ignition waveforms, verifying sensor inputs, diagnosing misfires, and evaluating coil performance under load. Lab scopes, scan tools, and electrical testing equipment are used to capture real‑world data and apply structured diagnostic strategies. Special attention is given to understanding primary and secondary ignition patterns, timing control, dwell and saturation, and the influence of engine management systems on spark delivery.
Topics Covered:
- 2-3-4 wire coil design
- Triggering devices
- Transistor operation & testing
- Driver failures
- Coil charge time and total amperage
- Tone ring & CKP sensor issues
- Locating misfires
Objectives:
- Distinguish between 2-3-4 wire ignition coils
- Describe the operation of primary and secondary
- Identify ignition system components
- Explain how dwell, saturation, inductive reactance and coil energy relate to spark performance
- Diagnose ignition waveforms and check for misfires using a lab scope
Runtime = 113 minutes
Credit Hours = 3.00