Ignition Coil: Testing and Inspection

Ignition Coils With Power Output Stages, Checking

Special tools and equipment
- VAG 1598/31 adapter cable
- VAG 1526 multimeter or VAG 1715 multimeter
- VAG 1594 connector test kit
- VAG 1527 voltage tester
- Wiring diagram

Test requirements
- Battery voltage must be at least 11.5 volts.
- Camshaft Position (CMP) sensor must be OK, checking. Testing and Inspection
- Engine speed (RPM) sensor must be OK. Testing and Inspection

Test sequence

I - Engine code ATW
II - Engine codes AUG, AWM







- Disconnect 4-pin connector -2- from ignition coil -1- to be checked.
- Measure supply voltage between terminals 1 + 2 and 1 + 4 of disconnected connector using the multimeter and adapter cables from the VAG 1594 connector test kit.
- Switch on ignition. Specification: at least 11.5 V
- Switch ignition off.

If there is no voltage:
- Check wire between 4-pin connector terminal 1 and relay carrier for open circuits according to wiring diagram. Wire resistance: max: 1.5 Ohms
- Check wires between 4-pin connector and Ground (GND) for open circuits according to wiring diagram. Terminal 2 and Ground (GND), terminal 4 and Ground (GND), wire resistance: max: 1.5 Ohms

If there is no malfunction in voltage supply:
- Check activation.

Checking activation







- Remove fuse 32


NOTE: By removing fuse 32, voltage supply to the fuel injectors is interrupted.


I - Engine code ATW
II - Engine codes AUG, AWM







- Use auxiliary wires from VAG 1594 to connect diode test lamp VAG 1527 to terminals 2 and 3 of the disconnected connector.
- Operate starter and test ignition signal from Engine Control Module (ECM). LED should flicker.
- Switch ignition off.

If LED flickers and voltage supply is Ok:
- Replace ignition coils with power output stage

If LED does not flicker:
- Check wires.

Checking wiring







- Connect VAG 1598/31 adapter cable to control module wiring harness. Engine Control Module (ECM) is not connected.

I - Engine code ATW
II - Engine codes AUG, AWM

- Check wires between test box and 4-pin connector for open circuits according to wiring diagram. Cylinder 1 terminal 3 + socket 102, cylinder 2 terminal 3 + socket 95, cylinder 3 terminal 3 + socket 103, cylinder 4 terminal 3 + socket 94, wire resistance: max: 1.5 Ohms
- Check wires for shorts among one another.

If there is no malfunction in wire connections:







- Replace Engine Control Module (ECM).