The ignition coil, although small in size, plays a vital role in ensuring smooth rides and quick starts every time you turn the key or hit the starter button of your scooter. When this tiny powerhouse fails, it can leave even the most experienced riders baffled and stranded.
Some of the common Scooter ignition coil problems that have panicking riders include loss of spark, unable to start the scooter, sudden power loss or die-off, etc.
With our increasing reliance on scooters for their convenience and agility amidst city traffic, understanding and rectifying issues related to ignition coils has become paramount. So let’s focus on those common scooter ignition coil problems and shed light on potential fixes.
Read also: How To Fix Car Shakes After Ignition Coil Replacement: A Step-By-Step Guide
Scooter Ignition Coil Problems
Ignition coil irregularities can manifest as hard-starting scooters or intermittent misfires occurring randomly while riding. However, we have found the following issues are more frequent in scooters.
No Spark
Several factors can contribute to a no-spark situation, with the ignition coil being an infrequent offender. Nevertheless, numerous scooter owners have reported this particular problem.
If you’re grappling with a no-spark issue, it’s crucial to ascertain if the ignition coil is the primary cause. To do this, you’ll need to delve deeper into testing specific elements of the ignition system.
This process necessitates the use of a multimeter to measure voltage and resistance levels. Additionally, you’ll require a peak voltage adapter (PVA) for your multimeter to accurately read pulse voltage – where voltage fluctuates rapidly within a short timeframe.
When carrying out peak voltage tests, replicate conditions similar to those when checking for sparks in your ignition system. Ensure that spark plugs are fitted in the cylinder head and that known good plugs are installed in your spark plug caps. These capped plugs should be grounded to your engine and all switches within your ignition circuit should be set in run positions.
If peak voltage testing specifications aren’t on hand, inspect the ignition system components through resistance testing. Conduct a measurement of the primary resistance across the ignition primary coil’s two terminals. If there is only one terminal on the coil, measure the primary resistance between this terminal and the ground.
Proceed to assess the secondary coil resistance from the primary ignition coil terminal to the spark plug cap. If your ignition coil comes with two spark plug wires, evaluate the secondary resistance between both spark plug caps.
Also, perform a resistance check with the caps detached from these wires. Should you find any resistance that falls outside of specification, it may be necessary to replace either your ignition coil, spark plug wire, or caps.
Scooter Won’t Start
Several owners of scooters have relayed their experience of struggling to ignite their vehicles. Despite attempts to kick-start, the scooter remains unresponsive. Some have attempted to solve this issue by getting a tune-up or replacing the battery, but these solutions have proven ineffective.
In light of this, our expert advice recommends removing your spark plug from its cylinder and reconnecting it to the HT lead before placing it on your frame.
If you observe a spark, your coil is in good condition, and you might need a new spark plug. However, if there’s no spark, consider replacing both the coil and plug as it could be an issue related to scooter ignition coil problems.
Weak Spark
Several scooter users have expressed concerns about their bikes producing feeble sparks, despite having an adequate voltage in the ignition switch. In such scenarios, the ignition coil is likely transmitting insufficient voltage.
We recommend a few initial troubleshooting steps: First, verify that the yellow-black wire leading to the CDI isn’t showing a ground reading of 0. Second, when trying to start, look for fluctuating voltage at this yellow-black wire.
Third, confirm that the red-black wire emanating from the stator area isn’t showing a ground reading of 0. Fourth, during start-up attempts, check for fluctuating voltage at this red-black wire. Finally, as a temporary measure, consider disconnecting both wires from the ignition switch but keep them connected.
Sudden Die Off
For years, scooter enthusiasts have been plagued by a persistent issue related to the ignition coil. The situation is described as such: the engine abruptly ceases operation during a ride, without any prior indication or erratic behavior.
An immediate and total loss of spark is observed. Interestingly, allowing the scooter to rest and cool for a brief period of around 5 to 10 minutes enables it to restart as if nothing was amiss.
However, this respite is short-lived as the engine halts again within 30 to 40 seconds of running. This cycle of cooling and restarting can be repeated between 5 and 15 times before the scooter finally refuses to start up again. The frequency of this cycle largely depends on the type of coil installed in the scooter.
Broken Coil
Several scooter owners have complained about a malfunctioning ignition coil, which they believe was caused by an overly tightened coil. The issue could also stem from a loose bolt causing the coil to vibrate while in use, potentially damaging it. The cost of replacing these coils can vary significantly, with generic brands being priced around $10 and high-end models costing up to $80.
However, before you rush to replace the coil, it’s worth checking the cable that connects it to the spark plug. This cable is responsible for delivering the voltage that triggers the spark plug. If this connection is loose, it can cause arcing and overheating – although after cooling down for a minute or so, your scooter should start up again as normal.
To ensure this connection is secure, check that the metal clip at the end of the cable (which should be encased in a rubber cover) is properly attached to your spark plug. At the other end of this cable where it connects with your coil, most cables will fit tightly into a socket (although some may use screw attachments).
Related: Common Weak Ignition Coil Symptoms You Should Be Aware Of
How to Diagnose Bad Ignition Coil in Scooter
Testing the ignition coil falls under two primary categories: bench testing and on-the-scooter testing. Bench testing requires removing the ignition coil from your scooter, while on-the-scooter focuses on diagnosing the problem without dismantling any parts.
Starting with an on-the-scooter test, use a multimeter to check for resistance in needed areas. With this device, place its ends precisely at each terminal of the ignition coil where wires are connected. A healthy reading should display between 0.5 to 1.5 ohms – anything less or more might indicate a faulty part.
Bench tests involve inspecting if there is mechanical damage initially visually – cracks or oil seepage can be telltale signs of problems in adhesion between the windings causing non-optimal performance eventually leading to no spark conditions.
After getting satisfied that physically everything seems okay, proceed by measuring resistances similar to what you performed during the ‘on-the-scooter’ test.
Final Words
Scooter ignition coil problems can cause a host of issues in scooter performance. By understanding the common signs of a faulty ignition coil such as hard starting, poor fuel economy, misfiring, and engine backfiring, owners can take proactive steps to rectify the issue.
Regular maintenance checks and timely replacements are crucial in ensuring the durability and functionality of your ignition coil. Always consult with a professional mechanic or service center if you suspect that your scooter’s ignition coil is defective.
