How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Cylinder (Ignition) Coil?

Expect to pay about $150–$450 per coil in the U.S. at a typical shop, including parts and labor; a multi-cylinder coil pack usually runs $200–$550. Costs vary by vehicle, part quality (OEM vs aftermarket), and how hard the coils are to access. Below is a detailed breakdown to help you estimate your specific situation and avoid surprise add-ons.

What a Cylinder Coil Does—and Why Costs Vary

An ignition (cylinder) coil transforms your car’s battery voltage into the high voltage needed to fire each spark plug. Many modern engines use one “coil-on-plug” per cylinder, while others use a single coil pack that feeds multiple cylinders. Pricing hinges on how many coils you have, the brand and quality of the replacement part, and whether your engine design makes the job quick or time-consuming.

Typical Cost Breakdown

The following list outlines the common components of a coil replacement bill so you can see where the money goes and compare quotes more confidently.

• Parts (per coil): $50–$300+ (aftermarket: $30–$120 typical; OEM: $90–$250; performance/luxury: up to $350)
• Labor: $80–$180 per hour; time ranges from 0.3–1.0 hour per accessible coil, up to 2–3 hours if access requires removing components (e.g., rear bank on some V6 engines)
• Coil pack (serves multiple cylinders): $80–$300 for the part; 0.5–1.5 hours labor
• Diagnostic fee: $50–$150 (often credited if you approve the repair)
• Related parts (as needed): spark plugs $8–$25 each; coil boots $5–$20 each; plug wires (if equipped) $40–$120 per set
• Taxes and shop fees: typically 5%–15% of the pre-tax bill

When you add parts, labor, and common shop charges, most single-coil jobs land between $150 and $450; coil packs usually total $200 to $550. Complex access or premium parts can push the total higher.

Price Ranges by Region

Labor rates and parts pricing vary by country and city. Use these ranges as a starting point for local quotes.

• United States: $150–$450 per coil; $200–$550 for a coil pack; full sets often $300–$900 (4-cyl), $450–$1,200 (V6), $600–$1,600+ (V8)
• Canada: CAD $200–$600 per coil; CAD $275–$750 for a coil pack
• United Kingdom: £120–£350 per coil; £180–£450 for a coil pack
• Australia: AUD $220–$650 per coil; AUD $300–$800 for a coil pack

Metropolitan areas with higher labor rates and vehicles requiring OEM parts tend to sit at the upper end of these ranges.

When to Replace One Coil vs. All

Not sure whether to replace only the failed coil or the full set? Consider the factors below to balance cost and reliability.

• Single failure on a relatively young vehicle: Replace the bad coil only; inspect boots and plugs.
• High mileage or repeated coil failures: Consider replacing all coils on that bank or the full set to reduce repeat labor and downtime.
• Coil pack systems: Often replaced as a unit when one channel fails.
• Spark plugs overdue: Replace plugs and boots while coils are off to avoid double labor later.

There’s no universal rule; a technician’s inspection and your vehicle’s maintenance history should guide the decision.

Symptoms That Point to a Bad Coil

If you’re diagnosing a drivability problem, these signs commonly indicate a failing ignition coil.

• Check engine light with misfire codes (e.g., P0301–P0308, or a specific coil circuit code)
• Rough idle, hesitation, or loss of power—especially under load
• Poor fuel economy and raw fuel smell from the exhaust during misfire
• Hard starting or stalling

A proper scan and basic tests (swap-test coils, inspect plugs/boots) can confirm the root cause before replacing parts.

Ways to Save Without Cutting Corners

Coil replacements are relatively straightforward on many engines, and there are safe ways to keep costs in check.

• Compare OEM vs. high-quality aftermarket coils; read reviews and choose reputable brands.
• Bundle spark plug and boot replacement if due; it can prevent repeat misfires and extra labor.
• Ask whether the diagnostic fee is credited toward the repair.
• For DIY-capable owners: Many coil-on-plug jobs need basic tools and 20–60 minutes; consult a service manual and torque specs.
• Avoid ultra-cheap coils; high failure rates can erase any savings.

Balancing part quality with sensible labor planning usually yields the best long-term value.

Warranty and Coverage Notes

Ignition coils are typically not covered under long powertrain or emissions warranties beyond the basic coverage (often 3 years/36,000 miles in the U.S.), though extended warranties or certified pre-owned plans may include them. Check your policy and maintenance records before you pay out of pocket.

Bottom Line

For most vehicles, replacing a single ignition coil costs $150–$450 in the U.S., while coil packs average $200–$550. Total price depends on access, labor rates, and part choice. If your vehicle has high mileage or recurring misfires, consider replacing related components—and possibly multiple coils—to avoid repeat visits.

Summary

Replacing a cylinder (ignition) coil generally runs $150–$450 per coil in the U.S., with coil packs at $200–$550. Costs reflect parts quality, labor time, and engine layout. Confirm the diagnosis, compare OEM and reputable aftermarket options, and bundle spark plugs/boots when due to minimize future misfires and save on repeat labor.