A Guide to Ignition Coils for the 2011-2016 Dodge Dart
Solve engine misfires and rough idling by choosing the right replacement ignition coil for your Dart.
- A flashing check engine light signals a severe misfire; stop driving to prevent catalytic converter damage.
- If you have the 2.4L engine, check TSB #08-027-20, as you may only need to replace the coil boots.
- Check for oil in the spark plug wells; if found, you must replace the valve cover gasket to protect the new coils.
- It's best practice to replace all four coils and spark plugs at the same time for long-term reliability.
Signs of a Failing Ignition Coil
When an ignition coil starts to fail on your Dart, the symptoms are usually hard to ignore. Because the coil is responsible for firing a spark plug, a bad coil means one of your engine's cylinders isn't working correctly. You will likely notice one or more of these issues:
- Check Engine Light (CEL): This is often the first sign. The computer will detect a misfire and store a trouble code, such as P0300 (random misfire) or P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304 for a misfire in a specific cylinder.
- Rough Idle and Stalling: Your engine may shake or vibrate noticeably when stopped at a light. In more severe cases, the engine might stall completely.
- Engine Misfiring: You may feel the engine hesitate, jerk, or sputter while you're driving. This can be more obvious under heavy acceleration or at highway speeds.
- Poor Acceleration: With one cylinder not contributing power, your Dart will feel sluggish and weak when you try to accelerate.
- Worse Fuel Economy: When a cylinder misfires, fuel is still injected but isn't burned efficiently, leading to wasted gas and more trips to the pump.
Oil Leaks Can Destroy Coils
A very common reason for ignition coil failure on the Dodge Dart is a leaking valve cover gasket. Oil seeps into the spark plug tubes, soaking the bottom of the ignition coil and causing it to short out and fail. If you find oil on the old coil when you remove it, you must replace the valve cover gasket set to prevent the new coil from failing, too.
Known Issues: 2.4L Ignition Coil Boot TSB
For 2013-2016 Dodge Darts with the 2.4L engine, Chrysler issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) #08-027-20. This TSB addresses problems where the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminates due to issues with the ignition coil's insulating boot, not necessarily the coil itself. The fix involves replacing all four ignition coil boots. If you have a 2.4L engine, it's wise to replace the boots (or choose coils that come with high-quality new boots) even if you are only replacing one coil.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
While you can always buy an OEM Mopar part from the dealer, many high-quality aftermarket options offer a better value. However, not all aftermarket brands are created equal. It's best to avoid the cheapest no-name options, as they can fail prematurely.
- Premium Brands (OEM Quality): Brands like NGK, Delphi, and Bosch are well-regarded by Dart owners and mechanics. They are engineered to meet or exceed original factory specifications and offer excellent reliability. These are a safe bet for a long-lasting repair.
- Standard Aftermarket Brands: Companies like Standard Motor Products (SMP) and DriveWire offer a good balance of quality and price. Store brands like Duralast also fall into this category and are a common choice for DIY repairs.
- Economy & Performance Brands: While some brands like Granatelli are marketed as performance upgrades, owner experiences can be mixed, with some reporting failures after a couple of years. Cheaper, unbranded coils found online carry a higher risk of early failure.
Replace Spark Plugs at the Same Time
Since you already have the coils out, it's the perfect time to replace your spark plugs. Worn or incorrect spark plugs can put extra strain on the ignition coils and even cause them to fail. Using the correct OEM-spec NGK plugs is recommended to avoid issues.
Replacement Cost
The cost to replace ignition coils on a 2011-2016 Dodge Dart can vary depending on the parts you choose and whether you do the work yourself.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Mopar) Coil (1) | $100 - $140 |
| New Aftermarket Coil (1) | $29 - $138 |
| Shop Labor | $60 - $120 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I replace all four ignition coils at once?
It is highly recommended. Ignition coils are subjected to the same heat and wear over time. If one has failed, the others are likely nearing the end of their service life. Replacing them all at once saves you from having to do the same job again in a few months.
Is this a difficult job to do myself?
No, this is a great DIY job for beginners. The ignition coils are located right on top of the engine and are held in by a single 10mm bolt. The only tricky part can be releasing the yellow locking tab on the electrical connector without breaking it. The entire job for all four coils can usually be done in under an hour.
What is dielectric grease and do I need it?
Dielectric grease is an insulating grease that you should apply to the inside of the new ignition coil boot before installing it. It helps seal out moisture and makes it easier to remove the coil in the future. It does not conduct electricity; it only protects the connection.
Can I just replace the coil boot?
Yes. If the coil itself is still good, you can often just replace the rubber boot and the spring inside. This is the specific fix recommended in the TSB for the 2.4L engine to solve certain check engine light issues.
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Technical Specifications
This vehicle uses a coil-on-plug ignition system. Each coil is secured with one 10mm bolt, torqued to 80 in-lbs. The electrical connector uses a yellow locking tab that must be slid out before the connector can be unplugged.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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