Is anybody a Mechanic ? (I've a car question)

[Thomas L]

Off Subject, but ---

My Daughters car wont start and is showing 6 codes. One of each of the coils. Can I replace just the coils ? And not the PCM/Ecm ?

I was told, all six of the coils would not go out together. Probably One and, and it damaged the PCM. Replacying the coils, wont help the PCM. Replacing the PCM, and not the coils, will damage the new PCM. Hence I have to replace BOTH coils, and PCM together. (Parts alone are close to 1000. Any thoughts ?

[lah2420]

Not a mechanic, but I would suspect either the PCM or a wiring harness issue. I can't see all coils going out at once. There should be a way to test the coils, but I do not know it.

[MikeyTX]

I would have it checked by a competent shop. The towing bill is a whole lot cheaper than screwing it up further.

[MDO]

There are times when the dealer has an advantage & electrical troubleshooting is 1 of them.

It also helps when your seeking advice to tell us the name of the patient. I take it it's a 6 cylinder.

[MikeyTX]

If this is a fairly late model car, trying to do this by yourself without the proper equipment will be a real nightmare.

[Jack Klarich]

Highly unlikely all 6 coils are bad

What kind of car is this

A crank sensor or cam sensor will shut off the coils with out always throwing a code

More info and I can maybe help you figure this out

You can test the coils with an ohm meter

I am a retired ASE certified tech

The coils fire after a switching device like a crank or cam sensor phases

Like points and condensers did years ago

I have never seen all coils go @ the same time

Not to say it cant happen

[Pooch]

Your local parts store should have a code reader(some rent, some you have to buy) that you can use to see what codes it's throwing then look them up to see where to start. Most cars made after 1997 I believe have OBD port under the dash, usually near the steering wheel. Is it just not starting or was she driving it and it quit? Make, year and model will help.

[lah2420]

I would have it checked by a competent shop. The towing bill is a whole lot cheaper than screwing it up further.

I agree. Done it both ways. Guess which way was cheaper.

[Sidecarbill]

Well as retired auto tech, I'd say bring it to a dealer. If you waste a 1000 for coils that probably won't fix it you'll end up there anyway. Code numbers are important for diagnostics. And although there are codes common to all cars, some are specific to your model.So make model year are a must.

[1dn5up]

Just remember that certain part failures will set off the domino code effect. Some coils come in sets, others have individual cylinder coils. You will need a real code reader to determine, not those Mickey Mouse readers.

[dougv]

Maybe a ground problem, seems that is a common complaint on a lot of systems these days.

[Jack Klarich]

Maybe a ground problem, seems that is a common complaint on a lot of systems these days.

Very good tip

Easy for high mileage cars to have grounding issues

Easy to check with a test light also,

Connect alligator end to battery

Now with pointed end lightly scratch all metal surfaces on engine, transmission, any where you see metal under the hood

If you have a ground the test light will light up

Next, if you really have the time and a good ohm meter you can check closer to see how good these grounds are

[MikeyTX]

I agree. Done it both ways. Guess which way was cheaper.

Taking it to a reliable repair shop

[vwbug72501]

Google and model specific forums can be a good source of information. Just watch out for the "Internet French Boyfriend" experts!



When approached with a skeptical attitude, many gems of knowledge can be found.

[Thomas L]

Thanks all. Taking the advice , and biting the bullet. - off to the "Shop"

[MikeyTX]

Smart and wise

[MDO]

Thanks all. Taking the advice , and biting the bullet. - off to the "Shop"

Wise move...Please keep us informed.

[lightnin]

A trade in for a new trike?

[Burnerboy]

Please let us know what it turned out to be::

Ronnie

[MikeyTX]

A trade in for a new trike?

His daughters car ? I doubt it