Imagine turning the key in your Chrysler 300, all set for a smooth drive only to be greeted by stutters, jerks, or maybe even complete silence. Yes, these could be symptoms of a myriad of car issues but if you own a Chrysler 300, chances are that you might be dealing with an ignition coil problem.
The escalating incidents of Chrysler 300 ignition coil problems, including engine misfires, overheated ignition coils, lack of spark, or difficult startups, have made it crucial for every Chrysler aficionado to comprehend the underlying causes of these issues.
Rest assured, we are committed to enlightening you on these complications and their potential remedies. Our focus is primarily on the persistent issues related to the Chrysler 300 ignition coil.
Read also: Why Does An Ignition Coil Get Hot?
Chrysler 300 Ignition Coil Problems
Chrysler 300 ignition coil problems are often signaled by issues such as a misfiring engine or unexpected stalling when driving. This implies that higher voltages aren’t being effectively generated and relayed, hindering your engine’s ability to perform fluidly and optimally. Let’s learn about the common problems that have been troubling Chrysler 300 owners.
The vehicle Doesn’t Start
Owners of the Chrysler 300 have reported an unforeseen problem where their car refuses to start. They described the vehicle as running unevenly, with the check engine light being activated.
This indicates a problem with the coil pack, which can be manually cleared. However, the real issue emerges when the car starts to ride rough at low speeds.
In severe cases, it simply shuts down and fails to restart, appearing to lack spark. Many professional mechanics suggest that this might be due to a blown fuse, in particular, if a second fuse blows, this usually signals a potentially serious issue requiring immediate action.
In some cases, Chrysler 300 owners pointed out that swapping out old spark plugs with new ones momentarily fixed the issue.
However, after driving for a few miles or in some instances after only several minutes of operation, they once again faced the same problem – their car refusing to ignite. It could be beneficial to disconnect the PCM from the harness and check your circuits back to the main plug from the coil plug.
Engine Misfire
Engine misfiring is a common ignition coil-related issue in more or less every vehicle. The same thing goes for the Chrysler 300. Many owners have been suffering from the engine misfire. As they stated, the vehicle started sputtering with DTC codes for #2 misfire and #2 cylinder fuel injector circuit error.
The engine misfiring is often attributed to faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors. In the case of the Chrysler 300, it’s mainly linked to the ignition coil and fuel injector circuit. As per several user reports, the symptoms involve a sudden jerking motion while driving or during an idle state followed by a check engine light indicator.
No Fire To Coils
Owners of Chrysler vehicles, particularly those possessing the 2004 models, have expressed their discontent regarding their cars’ inability to start. This issue becomes even more exasperating when it persists despite changing the cam sensor, coil pack, and spark plugs.
Technically, the power that reaches the coils is essentially derived directly from the power distribution center (also known as the under-the-hood fuse box). The engine’s computer manages the ignition of the plugs by grounding the coils as required.
This happens through an interruption in grounding, which causes a collapse in the primary side of the coil’s field and subsequently generates a spark-producing voltage on its secondary side. Interestingly, this process works in reverse to what you may have observed in simple tests.
The next step is to ascertain if there is a spark (which most likely there isn’t), then identify why it’s absent. One method to test this is by disconnecting the cam sensor and attempting to start your vehicle. If you observe that your spark is weak, it would be advisable to refer to your schematics and trace back from the battery to the spark plug for any current disruption.
For instance, inspecting wires connecting the battery and high voltage coil could reveal corrosion that hinders high current supply. Further checks on the ignition coil (though this requires some expertise) should ideally show about 15 kV at its high side.
Then verify the wire leading up to the distributor followed by the distributor itself (particularly its internal contacts), the wire connected with the spark plug, and finally, inspecting the spark plug itself could potentially reveal problem areas. Careful examination of all these components along with their contact points should help identify any faults.
However, do keep in mind an intricate feature in the Chrysler 300, an electronic commutator or ignition coil driver, which generates impulses for the ignition coil on its low side. If this component is faulty, it could result in reduced output from your ignition coil.
Melting Coil Packs
Several Chrysler 300 owners reported about melted coil packs in their vehicles. If the coil pack continues to melt, then you may have an issue with the cylinder. In some cases, a bad connection, wiring harness, or even a bad ignition coil can cause the issue.
Additionally, a faulty spark plug can also lead to a melted coil pack. When the spark plug is not functioning properly, it can cause misfires and generate excessive heat which in turn melts the coil pack.
How to Diagnose Ignition Coil Issues in Chrysler 300
Diagnosing Chrysler 300 ignition coil problems is a structured procedure that can be conducted smoothly with the right steps. Here is how to get the task done:
Firstly, start by examining the engine. If it is misfiring or has power loss issues, this typically suggests the presence of Chrysler 300 ignition coil problems.
Secondly, observe engine light warnings. Are they flickering or turning on continuously? This could be a symptom of faulty ignition coils.
Next, conduct an ignition coil resistance test using a multimeter. Configuring the multimeter to 20k Ohm scale, note that excessive readings imply worn-out coils.
Lastly, try performing an on-plug ignition test. This involves checking for a spark directly at the spark plug; absence often indicates a malfunctioning ignition coil.
Ignition Coil Replacement in Chrysler 300
As you find your Chrysler 300 ignition coil has gone out of work, the best solution is to replace the coil pack. Even if you’re not the most mechanically inclined individual on the block, rest assured that replacing an ignition coil is straightforward when you have our guide at your side. So, follow the steps as we describe below:
Begin by disconnecting the negative cable from the battery and setting it aside safely, this is essential for avoiding any surprising jolts while you work. With gloves donned and safety glasses perched deftly on your nose, pluck up the spark plug wires or high-tension leads connected to the defecting coil pack. Now unscrew the mounting bolts holding the old ignition coil.
Be careful not to break any piezo injector lines, which are usually close to the area in some Chrysler 300 models. Upon successful extraction of the old ignition coil, replace it with the new one, ensuring it fits snugly into place.
Once positioned correctly, refasten all screws and securely reconnect everything in reverse order of their disassembly. After successful installation, reconnect your battery terminal and then start up your Chrysler 300’s engine.
Final Words
Chrysler 300 ignition coil problems are a significant concern for car owners and require immediate attention. Ignition issues can impair the vehicle’s overall performance, increase fuel consumption and potentially lead to costly repairs if not addressed promptly.
Regular inspection and timely maintenance by certified professionals can help avoid these issues in the long run. As such, all Chrysler 300 owners are urged to ensure their vehicles receive regular servicing to prevent ignition coil problems from escalating into more severe mechanical issues.
