Can you test coil pack with multimeter?

**Mike2004S4** · 05-31-2009 12:22 PM

I tried to search for this but couldn't find any info. Is there a way to test a coil pack with a multi-meter? I am replacing all 8 due to a problem but I would like to be able to self diagnose if one fails again. I travel from coast to coast often and would like to be able to test and replace myself if it goes out in the middle of nowhere.

**B6JoeS4** · 05-31-2009 12:24 PM

im thinkin the voltage is way too high to do that.

just stick a screw driver in the coilpack an hold the handle. have someone turn it over and if you scream, it works. jk- dont do that. it would work but its dangerous

**Mike2004S4** · 05-31-2009 04:54 PM

ah, like the 9-volt battery test but without using your tongue.

**CHECKERED** · 05-31-2009 07:39 PM

My way to test coil packs (or any other ignition related device)

1. Pull fuel pump fuse
2. Remove suspected coil pack and attach a spark plug at the end.
3. Lay the coil pack with the spark plug pointing up. (Instead of holding it in your hand)
4. Have someone crank the engine while you look for a spark.

**jdogg** · 05-31-2009 08:22 PM

I did read a post a while back, that talked about a tool that can check if a CP is dead or not. I will try to find the page or link.
I would like to get 1 as well because like you i travel at all hours and if a CP goes, well then i am fuct!
I would also like to know if there is a tool to remove the CPs, that would be alot easier than doing what i have been doing!

**RAudi Driver** · 06-01-2009 11:05 AM

I gong to say yes, as I use a multimeter to check the coil packs on my Nissan Maxima. It really shouldn't be that much different.

**ieatfishburitos** · 06-01-2009 12:06 PM

I think you need to measure the resistance of the coilpack with it disconnected from the car. That is the method used on a conventional coil for the old timer american cars. No idea what a good resistance value is, that would need to be figured out.

It would also seem for the more electronically inclined that there would be a method to measure the inductance of the coil. You would need an LCR meter to take that measurement. I have one in my lab at work, but it's not portable.

**Slow_Q5** · 12-18-2022 11:06 AM

https://www.audiforums.com/forum/b6-...udi-a4-125313/

Just found this, I tested one of my coils and seems to be correct or close

You will need an Ohmmeter or a digital multimeter set to measure resistance (ohms)

To ohm out your ignition coils:

1) remove ignition coil

2) Set meter to measure resistance(ohms)

3) Place either lead on pin one and hold it there (you'll see the pins labeled when you look into the coils receptacle). I have alligator clips on my leads which does make it easier to do but it can be done without them obviously.

From pin 1 to pin 2 you should read around 70k-80kohms much higher or lower indicates bad/failing coil.
From pin 1 to pin 3 you should read around 70k-80k ohms much higher or lower indicates bad/failing coil.
From pin 1 to pin 4 you should read OL (open circuit)

From pin 2 to pin 3 you should read a range from 350-500ohms much higher or lower indicates bad/failing coil.
From pin 2 to pin 4 you should read OL (open circuit)

From pin 3 to pin 4 you should read OL (open circuit)

Place a lead on pin 4 and place other lead on the metal surface of the coil and you should read very low resistance only about 10-15ohms. Pin 4 is your grounded (neutral) pin.

If meter is displaying any measurements between pin 4 and anyother pin then coil is bad or failing as that would indicate a short to ground.