Ignition system of gasoline engines (Opel Insignia A)

The electronic ignition system generates and controls high-power currents to spark the spark plugs. The spark plug spark ignites the compressed air-fuel mixture at precisely the right time, ensuring optimal performance, fuel efficiency and control of harmful emissions in the exhaust gases. The engine control unit collects information from the position sensors of the crankshaft and the position of the intake and exhaust camshafts to determine the sequence, duration and timing of ignition for each cylinder. The engine control unit transmits a repeated signal to the ignition coil control circuit of the corresponding cylinder to ignite the fuel-air mixture.

The spark plugs are connected to the ignition coils via a conductive boot that has a twisted wire to transmit current from the ignition coil to the spark plug. The spark plug electrodes are platinum coated to reduce wear and improve efficiency.