Circuit/System Description

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2017 Chevrolet Suburban 3500 HD. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The ignition system on this engine uses an individual coil for each cylinder. The engine control module (ECM) controls the spark event for each cylinder through the 8 individual ignition control circuits. When the ECM commands the ignition control circuit ON, electrical current will flow through the primary winding of the ignition coil, creating a magnetic field. When a spark event is requested, the ECM will command the ignition control circuit OFF, interrupting current flow through the primary winding. The magnetic field created by the primary winding will collapse across the secondary coil windings, producing a high voltage across the spark plug electrodes. The ECM uses information from the crankshaft position sensor, and the camshaft position sensor for sequencing and timing of the spark events. The ECM monitors each ignition control circuit for improper voltage levels.