What are common symptoms of a faulty ignition coil?

A faulty ignition coil can lead to a range of engine performance issues, primarily because it plays a critical role in the ignition system by generating the high voltage needed to ignite the air/fuel mixture in the engine's cylinders. When the coils malfunction, the engine might not receive a consistent spark, which can produce symptoms such as misfiring, a rough idle, and difficulty starting the vehicle.

Engine misfires occur when the combustion process is interrupted, leading to a momentary loss of power and rough running conditions. A rough idle is often a direct result of the erratic firing of the engine’s cylinders, and difficulty starting can stem from the insufficient spark being sent to ignite the fuel.

The other choices, while they involve vehicle issues, do not directly relate to the functions or symptoms produced by a faulty ignition coil. For instance, excessive fuel consumption and overheating may be attributed to fuel system issues or cooling system problems rather than ignition. Brake warning lights illuminating typically point to issues within the brake system, and unusual tire wear patterns suggest problems with alignment or suspension rather than ignition faults.