How much does it cost to replace an engine coil?

In 2025, replacing a single ignition (engine) coil generally costs $150–$400 on most mainstream vehicles in the U.S., split between parts ($60–$200 per coil) and labor ($80–$200). Coil packs (one unit serving multiple cylinders) usually total $200–$600. Replacing all coils runs about $250–$900 on a 4‑cylinder and $400–$1,500+ on many V6/V8 engines—especially if access requires removing the intake manifold on certain models. Expect an additional $50–$150 if a diagnostic fee isn’t bundled into the repair.

What an ignition coil does—and why costs vary

The ignition coil transforms battery voltage into the high voltage needed to fire the spark plugs. Modern vehicles typically use “coil-on-plug” designs (one coil per plug), while some older models use a single coil or a multi-output coil pack feeding several cylinders. Costs vary by the number of coils, parts quality (OEM vs. aftermarket), labor time (how hard they are to access), shop labor rates, and whether related parts—like spark plugs or coil boots—are replaced at the same time.

Typical price ranges you can expect

The following list breaks down common scenarios for ignition coil replacement, including one-coil fixes, coil packs, and full-set replacements across different engine types. These ranges reflect typical U.S. shop rates and parts pricing in 2025.

• Single coil (coil-on-plug) on most mainstream cars: $150–$400 total
• Single coil on many European/luxury models: $250–$600 total
• Coil pack assembly (one unit serving multiple cylinders): $200–$600 total
• Full set on a 4‑cylinder (four coils): $250–$900 total
• Full set on a V6 or V8 (six to eight coils): $400–$1,500+ total
• Vehicles requiring intake manifold removal (some transverse V6/V8 or tight engine bays): add 1.5–3.0 hours labor; totals can exceed $800–$1,200 even for partial replacement
• Diagnostic fee (if not waived with repair): $50–$150

These figures include typical parts-and-labor combinations but exclude taxes, shop supplies, and regional price differences, which can shift totals upward by 5–10% or more.

What drives the price: parts, labor, and access

Parts costs

Aftermarket coil-on-plug units for mainstream models usually run $35–$120 each; OEM coils are commonly $70–$180. European and performance brands often price higher. Coil packs range from $80–$300 depending on brand and application.

Labor costs

Labor is typically 0.3–1.0 hour per easy-access coil; shop rates commonly range from $110–$200 per hour in 2025. Some engines—especially certain V6/V8 layouts—hide coils under intake components, adding 1.5–3.0 hours to access the rear bank or tight spaces.

Real-world labor time examples

Because access varies widely by engine design, labor time can be the biggest swing factor. Here are illustrative examples for typical vehicles and configurations.

• Inline‑4 (easy access, coil-on-plug): 0.3–0.8 hour for one coil; 0.6–1.5 hours for all four
• V6 transverse (rear bank obstructed): 1.5–3.0 hours extra if manifold removal is required
• V8 trucks/SUVs (mixed access): 0.5–1.5 hours for one coil; 1.5–2.5 hours for all coils
• Coil pack on older 4‑cyl engines: 0.5–1.0 hour

Your exact vehicle, engine orientation, and shop procedures determine the final labor time and cost.

Symptoms of a failing coil (and when to replace)

Recognizing a failing ignition coil early can prevent catalytic converter damage and improve drivability. Watch for these common indicators before scheduling service.

• Check engine light with misfire codes (e.g., P030X)
• Rough idle, hesitation, or lack of power under load
• Poor fuel economy or hard starts
• Raw fuel smell or backfiring (severe misfire)

If multiple coils are aging and mileage is high, replacing them as a set—often alongside new spark plugs—can restore smooth operation and reduce repeat labor visits.

Replace one coil or all coils?

Replacing just the failed coil is common and cost-effective, especially on newer or lower-mileage vehicles. However, if the vehicle has high mileage or shows multiple misfires over time, replacing all coils proactively can make sense. Many shops also recommend replacing spark plugs (and coil boots, if serviceable) during coil replacement, because plugs that are worn or gapped incorrectly can strain coils and hasten failure.

DIY vs. professional service

DIY can be practical on engines with accessible coils and basic hand tools, but professional service is advisable when intake removal or complex diagnostics are involved. If you’re considering DIY, verify torque specs, use dielectric grease on boots where recommended, and avoid mixing up coil connectors.

The following list outlines typical tools and materials needed for a straightforward DIY coil replacement.

• Socket set with extensions (often 8–10 mm sockets)
• Torque wrench and screwdrivers
• Dielectric grease and anti-seize (if specified by the manufacturer)
• OBD‑II scanner to confirm/clear codes and verify repair
• New spark plugs and boots if servicing together

If the job requires manifold removal, specialized procedures, or you lack access to quality diagnostics, professional service is the safer route.

Ways to save on coil replacement

Coil replacement costs can add up, especially on multi-coil engines. These strategies can help manage the bill without compromising reliability.

• Compare quotes from independent shops and dealers; ask if the diagnostic fee is waived with repair
• Use reputable aftermarket coils when appropriate; consider full-set pricing for better per-unit value
• Bundle spark plug replacement to avoid duplicate labor later
• Look for service coupons and ask about warranties on parts and labor (12–24 months is common)
• Avoid used coils; failure rates and unknown history make them a false economy

Balancing brand quality, shop reputation, and bundled service can lower total cost while maintaining reliability.

Regional and vehicle-specific considerations

Labor rates trend higher in major metro areas and on the coasts. European and performance vehicles may require OEM parts for best results, and some models have known access challenges that significantly increase labor time. Checking your exact year, make, model, and engine code against a shop estimator will yield the most accurate quote.

Summary

Expect $150–$400 to replace a single ignition coil on most cars, $200–$600 for a coil pack, and $250–$900 (4‑cyl) to $400–$1,500+ (V6/V8) for a full set—higher if access is difficult or the vehicle is a luxury/European model. Including diagnostics, taxes, and related parts like spark plugs will bring the total into clearer focus. When in doubt, request an itemized estimate showing parts, labor hours, shop rate, and any access-related charges.

Why are engine coils so expensive?

Why are ignition coils so expensive? These are precision components. As a typical spark plug is fired eight times a second, ignition coil packs have to be well made. Being tempted by a low-quality part is a false economy.

Can you drive with a bad engine coil?

No, you should not drive with a bad ignition coil, as it can lead to further damage to your engine and exhaust system, potentially causing costly repairs. Symptoms like a rough engine, misfires, poor acceleration, and a lit check engine light are indicators of a faulty coil, and driving with a bad one can result in unburned fuel damaging the catalytic converter and oxygen sensors, diluting engine oil, and causing premature engine wear. 
Why you shouldn’t drive with a bad ignition coil:

• Damaged Catalytic Converter and Oxygen Sensors: Opens in new tabUnburned fuel from a misfiring cylinder can enter the exhaust system and ignite in the hot catalytic converter, leading to its failure and damage to oxygen sensors. 
• Engine Oil Contamination: Opens in new tabRaw fuel can bypass the piston rings and enter the engine oil, diluting it and severely compromising its lubricating properties. 
• Premature Engine Wear: Opens in new tabThe lack of proper lubrication from contaminated oil can lead to increased wear on cylinder walls, piston rings, and crankshaft bearings, potentially causing major engine failure. 
• Engine Instability: Opens in new tabA misfiring cylinder can act like a brake, causing the engine to vibrate, run unevenly, and put excessive stress on internal components. 

What to do if you suspect a bad ignition coil:

• Get it Diagnosed: Have the ignition coils and the entire ignition system checked by a mechanic to confirm the issue. 
• Replace Promptly: Replace the faulty ignition coil as soon as possible to prevent further, more expensive damage to your engine and exhaust components. 

What are the symptoms of a bad coil?

Symptoms of a bad ignition coil include a lit check engine light, engine misfires (rough idle, sputtering), hard starting, loss of power, decreased fuel economy, and unusual noises like backfiring. A gas smell from the exhaust can also occur, as unignited fuel enters the exhaust system. If you notice these symptoms, it’s essential to have a mechanic diagnose the issue to prevent further engine damage.
 
Common Symptoms of a Bad Ignition Coil

• Illuminated Check Engine Light: The vehicle’s computer detects a misfire or other issue and illuminates the check engine light. 
• Engine Misfires: This is a primary symptom where a cylinder fails to ignite the fuel-air mixture, leading to sounds like sputtering or coughing, noticeable especially at idle or low speeds. 
• Rough Idling and Shaking: A failing coil can cause irregular engine performance, resulting in the engine shaking or vibrating while idling or driving. 
• Hard or No Start: The engine may crank but have difficulty starting or may not start at all due to insufficient voltage for the spark plugs. 
• Loss of Power and Poor Acceleration: When one or more cylinders aren’t firing correctly, the engine becomes less efficient, leading to a noticeable decrease in power and slow acceleration. 
• Decreased Fuel Economy: Since the engine is misfiring, it’s not operating efficiently, which can result in a drop in your gas mileage. 
• Unusual Noises: Listen for sounds like sputtering, coughing, or loud backfiring, which are signs of engine misfires and improper combustion. 
• Gas Smell from Exhaust: Unburned fuel from a misfiring cylinder can exit through the tailpipe, creating a distinct gasoline smell and potentially damaging the catalytic converter. 

What to Do
If you experience these symptoms, get your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. Ignoring a bad ignition coil can lead to significant engine damage.

Are engine coils expensive to replace?

OEM (Motorcraft) coils typically run about $75 per coil. So that’s about $450 in parts. But most shops will mark up parts, sometimes upwards of 100%. Labor time is next to nothing, it’s 0.8 hours for all of them, it’s not a labor intensive job at all.