Servicing Your BMW Ignition Module in Jeffersonville

Your BMW is a machine packed with complex parts and systems that all need to work together to create the supreme driving experience of high-performance vehicles. One such part which can impact your car’s overall performance is the ignition module. In this article, we will take a closer look at this part and learn some of the signs and symptoms that indicate your ignition module is in need of servicing.

The Ignition Module: A Closer Look

The ignition module is also commonly called the ignition control module and is an integral part of your BMW’s ignition system. It is responsible for managing the electrical current that the ignition coil needs. This allows the coil to generate the perfect voltage to create the spark needed to ignite the fuel. The ignition module is able to achieve this because of the signal it receives from the distributor’s magnetic pulse generator. This produces a signal that is perfectly synchronized with both the engine speed and crankshaft position. Put simply, the ignition module works with other systems to ensure the ignition coil is provided with enough voltage to do its job.

The ignition module is most commonly found on top of the engine and has heavy-duty insulation to protect it from heat. When the engine is switched on, the ECU unit sends a signal to the ignition module. The two parts constantly interact with one another, which allows the ECU to pass on a timing signal to the module. The ignition module can then give this signal to the ignition coil.

Signs and Symptoms of Failure

Listed below are some of the signs and symptoms of ignition module failure. If you start to experience these, then you’ll need to seek professional servicing.

1. Reduction in Engine Performance

The ignition module can cause some frustrating engine performance issues. It can cause an increase in the rate of ignition misfires you experience and overall contribute to the rough running of your BMW. It can also cause engine hesitation, a reduction in power, and lowered gas mileage. Your vehicle may even fail to start when turning the key in the lock.

2. Stalling Engine

If the ignition module has developed a fault, you are also likely to notice that your BMW stalls more frequently and may even refuse to start back up again.

3. BMW Won’t Start/ Engine Doesn’t Spark

If your BMW wont start or won’t spark, then it is likely that the ignition module has failed. Because a working module is needed to start your car, without it, the fuel in your engine won’t ignite and you will be going nowhere fast!

Causes of Failure

There are 2 main causes of ignition module failure: electrical faults and overheating. Let’s take a closer look at these culprits.

1. Electrical Faults

Because the ignition module is an electrical part, any failure in the electronic systems will greatly impact the performance of the system. Factors such as loose or corroded electrical connects, damaged wiring, and contact faults can all stop the ignition module from receiving information from the ECU as well as relaying this data to the ignition coil.

2. Overheating

Overheating can also critically damage your ignition module. As we previously mentioned, the ignition module sits on top of your engine. It is surrounded by insulation to protect it from the high temperatures produced by your engine but can overheat and become damaged if the engine spikes in temperature or overheats itself. When the unit overheats, its delicate electrical components can become completely fried, preventing the part from working properly if at all.

Servicing at Mike Johns Imports

Because it plays such an important role in the overall health and running of your BMW, your ignition control module should be regularly serviced to prevent you being caught out by sudden failure. Servicing will also ensure the module’s surrounding systems, such as the ECU, ignition coils, and spark plugs are also in great working order, keeping your engine performance at top levels.

The residents of Crestwood, Hurstbourne, Jeffersontown, Louisville, St. Matthews, and Jeffersonville, IN should head to Mike Johns Imports for all their servicing and repair needs. No job is too big or too small for our team of experts to handle. You are guaranteed to drive away happy and in a safe vehicle. Call us today or stop by for a consultation.