Ignition System
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Grand Am, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero, 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, and 2003 Chevrolet Impala. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Inspect for proper ignition voltage output using the following steps:
- Attach the Spark Tester (J 26792) to engine ground.
- Connect the spark plug end of the spark plug wire to the spark tester. Leave the other end of the spark plug wire connected to the coil being tested.
- Connect the spark plug end of the companion spark plug wire to ground. The companion spark plug wire is the wire attached to the corresponding coil tower.
- Crank the engine while observing the spark tester. A spark should be observed.
- Repeat the previous steps for each coil.
If spark is not present at the coils, inspect for the following conditions:
- Coils - Cracks, carbon tracking/arcing, or a resistance value outside 5-8 k/ohms.
- Spark Plug Wires - Signs of arcing, cross firing, cracks, carbon tracking, plug boot damage, pinched, improper routing, or a resistance value outside 3000 ohms per foot.
- Defective Ignition Module
- Ignition System Wiring - Loose ignition module feed or ground connection, or damaged system wiring
NOTE:
Spraying the secondary ignition wires with a light mist of water may help locate an intermittent problem. Ignition voltage will arc to ground when a secondary component is faulty.
Remove spark plugs and inspect for the following conditions:
- Fouled plugs
- Cracks
- Wear
- Improper gap
- Burned or damaged electrodes
- Improper heat range or reach
If spark plugs are gas or oil fouled, the cause of the fouling must be determined before replacing the spark plugs.