How to Buy the Right Ignition Coils

March 20, 2025

7 min read

March 20, 2025

7 min read

Is it time to replace your car’s ignition coils? Then it’s also time to learn about different ignition systems, the average cost for ignition coils, and the most trusted brands.

Ignition System Types

An auto mechanic unplugs an ignition coil as part of an ignition coil replacement. — An auto mechanic unplugs an ignition coil.

The first step to understanding what ignition coil to buy is confirming the type of ignition system that your car uses.

Conventional distributor-based ignition is most common. In this setup, the distributor transmits electrical current from the coil to each spark plug. This simple configuration is mainly seen on cars built before 1980. It includes a distributor, distributor cap, ignition coil, and rotor, and is simple to work on.

High energy ignition (HEI) systems are more advanced and integrate the ignition coil into the distributor cap. This type of ignition was widely used between the 1970s and 1990s. A built-in capacitor creates a stronger and more consistent spark.

Newer distributorless ignition systems use one or several coil packs to deliver spark directly to the plugs. Camshaft and crankshaft sensors send timing signals to the computerized engine control unit (ECU) for more precise ignition operation.

Waste spark ignition system also uses coil packs, each connected to two spark plugs. It fires both simultaneously, one in the power stroke and another in the exhaust stroke on paired cylinders. The waste spark on the exhaust stroke isn’t used for combustion, but helps clean the spark plugs for more consistent performance.

Coil-on-plug (COP) ignition systems use an individual coil mounted to each spark plug. Introduced in the 1990s, this is the ignition system found on nearly every new gasoline-powered car on sale today.

Cost of New Ignition Coils

A 2003 Honda Cr125 CR 125 ignition coil. — A DIY ignition coil replacement can save you money on labor costs.

Ignition coil prices depend on the type of vehicle you drive and whether you choose an aftermarket brand or original equipment (OEM) replacement coils.

Most ignition coils cost between $15 and $100 each.
If your vehicle uses coil packs, you could spend anywhere from $30 to $300 per pack on average.

Coils transmit enormous electrical power. A bargain-priced ignition coil that’s not made by a reputable brand could fail prematurely. If you purchase replacement coil packs in a kit, you often pay less per coil. You might also find a tune-up kit that includes an ignition coil and new spark plugs at a lower price than you’d pay buying individually.

Replacing coils yourself saves on labor costs. Mechanics charge an average of $75 to $150 per hour, meaning you can save money if you’re able to replace ignition coils at home - opens in new window or tab. .

Are used ignition coils safe?

You can save money by buying a used ignition coil. In many cases, it’s safe to do so. While a used ignition coil may have some wear and tear, you can find like-new items on the market, often pulled from cars in collisions.

If you choose the used route, make sure you purchase from an eBay seller that has a lot of positive feedback. But first, evaluate the cost difference. Yes, you can save a few dollars on a used ignition coil, but new coils often have a warranty and will almost certainly last longer.

Recommended Ignition Coil Brands

A Delphi GN10177-11B1 ignition coil. — Delphi ignition coils like this one are used as original equipment by many automakers.

If you’re not purchasing OEM ignition coils, several aftermarket brands have earned a solid reputation. Many top brand-name companies supply components that can outperform the OEMs. (In fact, they might have made the parts your car came with from the factory.) No-name generic brands might not offer the performance you want. Here are a few recommended brands.

Delphi - opens in new window or tab. : Several automakers use Delphi ignition coils as original equipment, making them a perfect replacement. Delphi coils can be found in GM, Ford, Nissan, Subaru, and Toyota vehicles.

Duralast - opens in new window or tab. : These coils compare favorably to OEM components and are widely available on eBay Motors. They are competitively priced and offer a strong reliability rating.

Hitachi - opens in new window or tab. : Often used in high-performance and luxury vehicles, Hitachi coils come in several varieties, and they’re known for reliability and durability.

NGK - opens in new window or tab. : You may know NGK as a spark plug brand, but the company’s ignition coils are also popular. NGK uses precision-wound copper wire with high-quality insulating materials for reliable, long-lasting spark delivery.

TRQ - opens in new window or tab. : This company offers some of the most cost-effective ignition system components and is often hailed as the best brand if you need to save money on ignition coils.

Best Ignition Coils For Performance

Upgrading your car’s ignition coils can increase performance by creating a stronger spark. While you won’t see huge performance gains from new coils alone, choosing a high-quality coil can make a noticeable difference in how your car runs.

If you’re building a highly-modified engine or use your vehicle for competition, a few brands stand out. NGK racing ignition coils provide better combustion and are made for high-stress driving conditions. MSD Blaster coils are great for enthusiasts hoping to boost engine performance in distributor-equipped vintage engines. Similarly, Pertronix Flame-Thrower coils have a higher output and work with a variety of ignition systems.

Popular Inexpensive Ignition Coil Options

If you’re on a tight budget, you don’t need to sacrifice quality. As previously discussed, TRQ ignition coils are affordable and notably reliable. While Denso ignition coils - opens in new window or tab. can be attractively priced, they are not cheaply made. In fact, they are used as OEM equipment on many vehicles. Standard Motor ignition coils - opens in new window or tab. are also affordable and available for many different makes.

What to Buy With Ignition Coils

An AC Delco spark plug wire set. — Replacing all of your ignition coils at the same time makes sense.

If you have one bad ignition coil, consider buying a kit and replacing them all at the same time. When one coil wears out, another might be nearly toast. Ignition coil kits sometimes save you money versus buying multiple items.

Since spark plugs work hand-in-hand with the ignition coils, it makes sense to replace them at the same time to improve performance and efficiency.

If your car uses a distributor, you should replace the cap and rotor along with the coil. Also consider replacing spark plug wires - opens in new window or tab. on older cars. Worn or cheap wires can cause reduced performance and misfires.

If your ignition coils are working fine, but the boots are ripped or worn, consider buying an ignition coil boot kit instead.

If you want to take performance a step further, you can also consider minor upgrades to the fuel injectors - opens in new window or tab. and the air filter - opens in new window or tab. . Every small upgrade can enhance performance and create a more enjoyable ride.

About the author

Brian Jones

Brian worked for several decades as an ASE Certified Master Technician in dealerships before starting his used car lot. Today, he writes for top automotive publications including Motor1. In his spare time, he's dreaming of an escape to the country's best trails in an off-road beast.

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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.