Hey guys! Are you having issues with your 2004 Infiniti G35 and suspect the ignition coils? No worries, you've come to the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about ignition coils for your G35, from understanding what they do to diagnosing problems and replacing them. Let's get started!

Understanding Ignition Coils

Ignition coils are a critical component of your car's ignition system. Their primary function is to convert the low voltage from the car's battery into the high voltage needed to create an electrical spark at the spark plugs. This spark ignites the air-fuel mixture in the engine's cylinders, which in turn drives the pistons and, ultimately, the car. Without properly functioning ignition coils, your engine won't be able to generate the power needed to run efficiently, or even run at all.

Think of ignition coils as tiny transformers. They take the 12 volts from your car's battery and boost it to tens of thousands of volts. This high voltage is then sent to the spark plugs via the spark plug wires (or directly in some newer designs). The spark jumps across the gap in the spark plug, igniting the air-fuel mixture. This combustion process is what makes your engine go!

In your 2004 Infiniti G35, like many modern vehicles, each cylinder typically has its own individual ignition coil. This is known as a coil-on-plug (COP) system. This design is more efficient and reliable than older systems that used a single coil and a distributor to send the spark to the correct cylinder. With COP, each coil is dedicated to one spark plug, providing a more consistent and powerful spark.

Over time, ignition coils can wear out due to heat, vibration, and electrical stress. When they start to fail, you might experience a variety of symptoms, such as a rough idle, misfires, reduced power, and poor fuel economy. Recognizing these symptoms early can help you address the problem before it leads to more serious engine damage.

Key takeaways about ignition coils:

• They transform low voltage to high voltage.
• They create the spark that ignites the air-fuel mixture.
• The 2004 G35 uses a coil-on-plug system.
• They can wear out over time and cause engine problems.

Common Symptoms of Failing Ignition Coils

Spotting the signs of failing ignition coils early can save you a lot of headaches and prevent further damage to your engine. Here are some of the most common symptoms to watch out for in your 2004 Infiniti G35:

1. Misfiring Engine: This is perhaps the most noticeable symptom. A misfire occurs when one or more cylinders in your engine fail to ignite the air-fuel mixture properly. This can cause the engine to run roughly, vibrate, and lose power. You might also notice a flashing check engine light, which indicates a more severe misfire. The car's computer, or ECU, detects the misfire and stores a trouble code that can be read with a scan tool.

2. Rough Idle: When your car is idling, the engine should run smoothly and consistently. If you notice that the engine is shaking, sputtering, or running unevenly, it could be a sign of a failing ignition coil. A rough idle is often more pronounced when the engine is cold.

3. Reduced Power and Acceleration: If your G35 feels sluggish and doesn't accelerate as quickly as it used to, a failing ignition coil could be the culprit. The engine may struggle to produce the necessary power, especially when climbing hills or accelerating onto the highway.

4. Poor Fuel Economy: A failing ignition coil can cause the engine to burn fuel less efficiently. This can result in a noticeable drop in your gas mileage. If you find yourself filling up the tank more often than usual, it's worth investigating your ignition coils.

5. Check Engine Light: The check engine light is your car's way of telling you that something is wrong. A failing ignition coil will often trigger the check engine light, and the ECU will store a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that can help pinpoint the problem. Common codes associated with ignition coil issues include P0300 (Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected), P0301 (Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected), P0302 (Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected), and so on.

6. Stalling: In severe cases, a failing ignition coil can cause the engine to stall, especially at low speeds or when idling. This can be a dangerous situation, particularly if it happens in traffic.

7. Difficulty Starting: A failing ignition coil can make it harder to start your car. The engine may crank for a longer time than usual before finally starting, or it may not start at all.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's essential to have your car inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Ignoring these issues can lead to more serious engine damage and costly repairs.

Diagnosing Ignition Coil Problems

Okay, so you suspect you might have a bad ignition coil in your 2004 Infiniti G35. What's next? Here's how to diagnose the problem:

1. Read the Trouble Codes: The first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to read the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) stored in your car's computer. As mentioned earlier, codes like P0300, P0301, P0302, etc., can indicate misfires and point to specific cylinders that may be affected. You can purchase an OBD-II scanner online or at most auto parts stores, or you can have a mechanic read the codes for you.

2. Visual Inspection: Next, visually inspect the ignition coils themselves. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, burns, or corrosion. Also, check the wiring and connectors leading to the coils to make sure they are in good condition and properly connected. Sometimes, a loose or damaged connector can cause misfires.

3. Swap Coils: One of the easiest ways to diagnose a faulty ignition coil is to swap it with a known good coil. For example, if you have a P0301 code (Cylinder 1 Misfire), you can swap the ignition coil from cylinder 1 with the coil from cylinder 2. Then, clear the trouble codes and see if the misfire moves to cylinder 2 (P0302). If it does, then you know the coil you moved is bad.

4. Check Spark Plugs: While you're diagnosing the ignition coils, it's also a good idea to check the spark plugs. Spark plugs can wear out over time and cause misfires, even if the ignition coils are working correctly. Remove the spark plugs and inspect them for signs of wear, such as worn electrodes, carbon fouling, or oil deposits. Replace the spark plugs if necessary.

5. Use a Multimeter: A multimeter can be used to test the primary and secondary resistance of the ignition coils. Compare the readings to the manufacturer's specifications to see if the coil is within the acceptable range. If the resistance is too high or too low, it could indicate a problem with the coil.

6. Listen for Arcing: In a dark environment, start the engine and listen for any arcing or snapping sounds coming from the ignition coils. Arcing can occur when the high voltage electricity is escaping from the coil, which can cause misfires.

7. Professional Diagnosis: If you're not comfortable performing these tests yourself, or if you're still unsure about the cause of the misfire, it's best to take your car to a qualified mechanic. They have the tools and expertise to accurately diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate repairs.

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Replacing the Ignition Coils

Alright, so you've confirmed that you have a bad ignition coil and you're ready to replace it. Here's a step-by-step guide to replacing the ignition coils on your 2004 Infiniti G35:

1. Gather Your Tools and Parts: Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary tools and parts. You'll need:

   • New ignition coils
   • Socket set
   • Wrench set
   • Screwdriver
   • OBD-II scanner (to clear trouble codes)

2. Disconnect the Battery: Safety first! Disconnect the negative terminal of your car's battery to prevent any electrical shocks.

3. Remove the Engine Cover: Most G35s have an engine cover that needs to be removed to access the ignition coils. Remove any bolts or clips holding the cover in place and set it aside.

4. Locate the Ignition Coils: The ignition coils are located on top of the engine, directly above the spark plugs. They are usually held in place by a bolt or two.

5. Disconnect the Electrical Connector: Disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition coil. Be careful not to damage the connector or the wires.

6. Remove the Ignition Coil: Remove the bolt or bolts holding the ignition coil in place. Then, gently pull the coil straight up to remove it from the spark plug well.

7. Install the New Ignition Coil: Install the new ignition coil in the reverse order of removal. Make sure the coil is seated properly and that the bolt is tightened to the correct torque specification.

8. Reconnect the Electrical Connector: Reconnect the electrical connector to the new ignition coil.

9. Repeat for Other Coils: Repeat steps 5-8 for any other ignition coils that need to be replaced.

10. Reinstall the Engine Cover: Reinstall the engine cover and secure it with the bolts or clips.

11. Reconnect the Battery: Reconnect the negative terminal of your car's battery.

12. Clear Trouble Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to clear any trouble codes that may have been stored in the car's computer.

13. Start the Engine: Start the engine and make sure it runs smoothly. If the misfire is gone, then you've successfully replaced the ignition coil.

Important Notes:

• It's generally a good idea to replace all of the ignition coils at the same time, even if only one is bad. This can help prevent future problems and ensure that all of the coils are performing optimally.
• When replacing the ignition coils, it's also a good idea to replace the spark plugs. This can help improve engine performance and fuel economy.
• Be sure to use high-quality replacement ignition coils that are designed for your 2004 Infiniti G35. Using cheap or low-quality coils can lead to problems down the road.

Choosing the Right Ignition Coils

Selecting the right ignition coils for your 2004 Infiniti G35 is crucial for ensuring optimal engine performance and reliability. Here are some factors to consider when choosing replacement ignition coils:

1. OEM vs. Aftermarket: You have two main options when it comes to ignition coils: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) coils and aftermarket coils. OEM coils are made by the same manufacturer that supplied the coils for your car when it was new. They are typically more expensive than aftermarket coils, but they are also more likely to meet the exact specifications of your car. Aftermarket coils are made by third-party manufacturers. They can be a more affordable option, but it's important to choose a reputable brand to ensure quality and performance.

2. Brand Reputation: When choosing aftermarket ignition coils, look for brands that have a good reputation for quality and reliability. Some popular brands include Denso, NGK, Delphi, and Bosch. Read reviews and ask for recommendations from other G35 owners to get an idea of which brands are the most reliable.

3. Coil Design: Make sure the ignition coils you choose are designed specifically for your 2004 Infiniti G35. Check the part number and specifications to ensure they are compatible with your car's engine. Using the wrong ignition coils can cause misfires and other engine problems.

4. Warranty: Look for ignition coils that come with a warranty. A warranty can protect you against defects in materials or workmanship. If the coils fail prematurely, you may be able to get them replaced for free.

5. Price: Ignition coils can range in price from relatively inexpensive to quite expensive. While it's tempting to go with the cheapest option, it's important to remember that you often get what you pay for. Investing in high-quality ignition coils can save you money in the long run by preventing future problems and ensuring optimal engine performance.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Everything you need to know about ignition coils for your 2004 Infiniti G35. Remember, diagnosing and addressing ignition coil issues promptly can keep your G35 running smoothly and prevent more significant engine problems. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or prefer to leave it to the professionals, understanding the symptoms, diagnosis, and replacement process will empower you to keep your ride in top shape. Happy driving!