Engine Electrical
Igniter
An igniter is the electronic switch that fires the ignition coil at the right moment in many older ignition systems. We list 30 igniters from $42 to $617 for vehicles from 1969-2002, from Hitachi, Huco, Beru, Forecast and Genuine, with fits for the Honda Accord, Prelude and Civic, Toyota 4Runner and Jaguar XJ.
Shop igniter by vehicle
What the igniter does
The igniter takes a signal from the distributor pickup or engine computer and switches the coil's primary circuit on and off. Each time it switches off, the coil fires a spark. On many Honda engines of this era the igniter sits inside the distributor, while other vehicles mount it on the fender or firewall.
It is sometimes called an ignition module or ignitor.
Signs of a failing igniter
A failing igniter can cause a no start with no spark, stalling once the engine gets hot, intermittent misfires or cutting out on the road. Heat related faults are common, and the engine may restart after it cools down.
Check for spark, then test the coil, pickup and wiring. A bad igniter is easier to confirm after other causes have been ruled out.
Fitment and install tips
Igniters are specific to the engine and distributor, so match the year, engine and transmission. Compare connector style and part number with the old unit.
Disconnect the battery before you start. If the igniter mounts on a metal base, apply the heat sink compound supplied or recommended by the maker, since igniters rely on that base to shed heat. Tighten mounting screws evenly.
Igniter questions
Is an igniter the same as an ignition control module?
They do the same basic job of switching the coil. The name used depends on the vehicle maker. Check the fitment table for the part your vehicle uses.
Why does my car stall when hot and restart when cool?
A heat sensitive igniter is a common cause on older vehicles. Other causes include a failing coil, pickup or fuel pump. Test for spark when it stalls.
Do I need heat sink compound for an igniter?
Many igniters need it on the mounting surface to shed heat. Follow the instructions with the part and use the compound if called for. Without it, the igniter can overheat.