Ignition Coils

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 GMC Sierra, 2007 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2007 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2007 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Each ignition coil has an ignition 1 voltage feed and a ground circuit. The engine control module (ECM) supplies a low reference and an ignition control (IC) circuit. Each ignition coil contains a solid state driver module. The ECM will command the IC circuit ON, which allows the current to flow through the primary coil windings for the appropriate time or dwell. When the ECM commands the IC circuit OFF, this will interrupt current flow through the primary coil windings. The magnetic field created by the primary coil windings will collapse across the secondary coil windings, which induces a high voltage across the spark plug electrodes. The primary coils are current limited to prevent overloading if the IC circuit is held ON for an extended time. The spark plugs are connected to their respective coils by a short secondary wire. The spark plugs are tipped with iridium for long life and efficiency.