Ignition System: Testing and Inspection

Electronic Ignition (EI) System Diagnosis

Diagnostic Instructions

* Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure. Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview
* Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
* Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

Circuit/System Description

The ignition system uses individual ignition coil/module assemblies for each cylinder. The engine control module (ECM) controls the individual coils by transmitting timing pulses on the ignition control (IC) circuit of each ignition coil/module to enable a spark event. Each ignition coil/module has the following circuits:

* An ignition voltage circuit
* A ground circuit
* An IC control circuit
* A low reference circuit

Diagnostic Aids

Depending on location in the spliced ignition voltage circuit, a slight resistance can cause a misfire or a crank/no start concern. To pinpoint this condition perform a voltage drop test on the circuit.

Circuit/System Verification

Important: Verify that the engine is in good mechanical condition before continuing with this diagnostic.

* Observe the Engine Controls Schematic for the ignition coils/modules, and review the Ignition System Specifications and the spark plug inspection procedure to verify the following:

- The ignition coil/modules are correctly connected
- The proper firing order
- The proper spark plug type
- The proper spark plug gap and torque
Refer to Ignition System Specifications and Spark Plug Inspection. Testing and Inspection

* A moderate resistance on any IC control circuit can cause a misfire before DTC P0351-P0354 sets.
* Extended engine cranking time, may foul the spark plugs with excessive fuel.

Circuit/System Testing

1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the ignition coil/module harness connector at the affected ignition coil/modules.
2. Ignition OFF for 90 seconds, test for less than 5 ohms of resistance between the ground circuit terminal 1 and ground.

• If greater than the specified value, test the ground circuit for an open/high resistance.

3. Ignition OFF for 90 seconds, test for less than 5 ohms of resistance between the low reference circuit terminal 2 and ground.

• If greater than the specified value, test the low reference circuit for an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ECM.

Important: If the ignition fuse is open, it will be necessary to test the spliced ignition circuits and the components for a short to ground.

4. Ignition ON, verify that a test lamp illuminates between the ignition circuit terminal 4 and ground.

• If the test lamp does not illuminate, test the ignition circuit for a short to ground or an open/high resistance.

5. Exchange the affected ignition coil/module with the ignition coil/module of a good cylinder.
6. Start the engine, observe the scan tool Misfire Current Cylinder parameters.

• If the misfire transfers with the suspect ignition coil/module, replace as needed.
• If the misfire does not transfer with the suspect ignition coil/module, refer to the Component Testing procedures below, and replace the spark plug if necessary.

Component Testing

* Use the Spark Plug Inspection procedure to verify the integrity of the spark plugs. Refer to Spark Plug Inspection. Testing and Inspection
* Use the J 26792 to verify the output of each ignition coil/module.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

* Ignition Coil Replacement
* Spark Plug Replacement Verification Tests