What is an ignition cap and rotor?
Many older vehicles use distributor type ignitions, and the distributor cap and distributor rotor are necessary maintenance items for keeping the engine running smoothly.
How does the ignition cap and rotor work?
The distributor rotor receives the high voltage electricity from the ignition coil, and sends through the distributor through an electrode on the tip of the rotor. As the rotor spins, electrical power is transferred from the rotor to individual electrodes inside the distributor cap. This action is timed for the moment the cylinder needs the spark plug to fire, and the sequence creates a combustion event inside the engine.
What are the symptoms related to a bad ignition cap and rotor?
A failing ignition cap on rotor will create misfires in the engine, and lead to hesitation, extreme power loss, engine stalling, poor fuel mileage, and illumination of the check engine light. The on-board diagnostics (OBD) trouble codes stored in the vehicle's computer will reflect engine misfires, catalyst inefficiency, and O2 sensor related errors. Under the hood there may be audible arching, that sounds like a rubber band snapping, coming from the ignition coil, distributor, or spark plug ends of any of the spark plug wires. Lastly, the ignition distributor cap and rotor may look burned, wet, corroded, or covered in a powder residue, and the spark plug wires may be cracked or degraded.
Can I drive with a ignition cap and rotor problem?
Ignition system components cause many problems when they fail, normally making the vehicle unpleasant or impossible to drive. Also, the amount of unburned fuel going into the catalyst could cause the catalyst to fail, requiring replacement. With severe ignition problems, the vehicle should be towed to a repair facility.