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Automotive technology may have changed greatly over time, but the fundamentals of starting your car remain the same. While it may seem as easy as firing up your engine with high-voltage sparks, the journey to get the vehicle moving is a little more complicated. Understanding how your car’s ignition system works will give you a better understanding of your engine’s functionality, making long-term car maintenance easier. Below, learn about the ignition system and the different types. 

How It Works

Your ignition system gives a boost to your car’s engine by delivering high-voltage sparks. When you insert and turn your key in the ignition slot, the system sends a current up to 30,000 volts to the ignition coil. The coil creates high-powered sparks in the distributor and sends them to individual plugs through a spinning rotor. The part touches four to 12 contact points that connect to your spark plugs and interact with the compressed air-fuel mixture located in the combustion chamber. Your engine will gain the motive to turn on when this mixture burns.

Types of Ignition Systems

Mechanical

car maintenanceVintage car models use breaker points and a rotating distributor cam to produce internal combustion within the engine. The distributor delivers the system’s high voltage through the ignition coils, while the points control the spark’s timing in proportion to your engine’s load or speed. Because this system has more moving components, its parts become worn out more easily, and more regular car maintenance is required.

Electronic

This ignition resembles a mechanical system with some upgraded modifications. Breaker pointers are replaced by a built-in control module that controls the timing of the engine’s ignition system. This creates higher-voltage sparks while permitting better efficiency and control of the module. Electronic-based systems are also less likely to break down, only needing tune-ups every 25,000 miles.

Distributorless 

Newer automobiles use this ignition system to control the spark with computer-controlled timing devices. The ignition coils also sit directly atop the spark plugs, which makes more direct contact with the electrical circuits. Due to its streamlined design and usability, tune-ups are only required once every 100,000 miles.

 

If your ignition is giving you trouble, get in touch with GSBP Automotive. Based in Gulf Shores, AL, this auto shop has provided high-quality repairs and preventative car maintenance services for over three decades. Their skilled technicians are specifically trained and certified by Automotive Service Excellence, and keep up with the latest equipment and technological advancements. Learn more about their services online and call (251) 968-7456 to make an appointment.

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