Parts for your 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer-Ignition leads

Ignition Leads and the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer: What You Need to Know

The 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer, like many modern vehicles, has seen significant upgrades in its ignition system compared to older models. When it comes to ignition leads, this particular model does not actually use traditional ignition leads as seen in older cars. So why is that the case and what does it mean for owners of a 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer?

Historically, ignition leads, also known as spark plug wires, were essential components in petrol-powered cars. Their job was to carry the high-voltage electricity generated by the ignition coil to the spark plugs. This spark would ignite the air-fuel mixture inside the engine's cylinders and get everything running smoothly. However, the ignition system in the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer relies on a more advanced setup known as coil-on-plug technology.

Instead of having a distributor, coil pack, and a set of ignition leads, the 2013 Lancer uses a coil-on-plug system where individual ignition coils are mounted directly on top of each spark plug. This arrangement eliminates the need for traditional ignition leads altogether. The energy from the ignition coil is transferred directly to each spark plug, which increases efficiency, reduces potential points of failure, and helps improve the overall ignition system performance.

The absence of ignition leads on the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer also means fewer parts to maintain and a generally more reliable ignition setup. Older cars with ignition leads would see those leads degrade over time due to exposure to heat, vibration, and contaminants under the bonnet. This could cause misfires, poor engine performance, and reduced fuel efficiency. But with coil-on-plug arrangements, some of those common issues are avoided entirely.

For people who are used to vehicle maintenance that includes checking and replacing ignition leads, it might come as a surprise that it's no longer relevant for the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer. Instead, servicing should focus on the ignition coils and the spark plugs themselves. If an ignition coil fails or a spark plug becomes worn, this can lead to engine misfires, rough idling, and decreased fuel economy, so keeping an eye on these parts is important.

That said, let's talk about ignition leads in general and why they were important in older vehicles that actually used them. Ignition leads acted as high-tension cables to deliver electricity from the ignition coil to each spark plug. They were specially insulated to handle the high voltages without leaking current or causing interference to other electronic components. The quality of these leads also impacted the overall reliability of the engine's ignition system.

When it came time for maintenance, ignition leads needed regular inspection and, often, replacement during servicing. Over time, the rubber or silicone insulation around the leads could crack or become brittle due to heat and ageing. This could cause electrical leakage or weakened spark intensity, leading to engine misfires and poor performance.

Replacing ignition leads was generally a straightforward process: disconnect the old leads from the spark plugs and ignition coil, then fit new ones ensuring a snug connection to prevent voltage leaks. It was recommended to replace all leads at the same time to maintain consistent performance and avoid uneven wear. If you noticed signs like rough engine running, difficulty starting, or visible cracks on ignition leads, it was a good time to check and replace them.

However, with modern coil-on-plug ignition systems like in the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer, the focus has shifted away from ignition leads to ignition coils and spark plugs. These coils are rugged but can sometimes fail, especially if exposed to moisture or extreme temperatures. Coil failure may manifest as engine misfires, reduced power, or a check engine light, signalling a need for replacement.

Routine servicing of the 2013 Lancer includes spark plug inspection and replacement based on manufacturer intervals, which is crucial for maintaining efficient combustion. While the ignition coils don't require scheduled replacement, their condition should be checked if any misfire faults appear during diagnostics.

So, if an owner of a 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer is wondering about ignition leads, they can rest assured that their vehicle does not use them due to its modern ignition system design. The benefits here include improved ignition efficiency, reduced maintenance complexity, and increased reliability. Instead, the best way to keep the Lancer's ignition system in top shape is by following the recommended service schedule for spark plugs and keeping an eye on coil performance.

In short, the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer's ignition system design means it has moved on from traditional ignition leads, embracing the more reliable and efficient coil-on-plug technology. This evolution makes ignition maintenance simpler and helps keep the engine running smoothly without the quirks of older ignition lead systems.