Parts for your 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander-Ignition leads

Ignition Leads and the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander: What You Need to Know

When it comes to ignition systems in cars like the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander, you might have heard the term ignition leads thrown around. However, this vehicle does not use traditional ignition leads. So what does this mean and why is that the case?

Ignition leads, also known as spark plug wires, are typically found in older vehicle models with distributor-based ignition systems. Their job is to carry high voltage electricity from the ignition coil to the spark plugs. This spark ignites the fuel-air mixture in the engine's cylinders, enabling the engine to run. In other words, without ignition leads, the spark plugs wouldn't get the electrical charge they need to produce a spark and keep the engine firing.

However, the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander has moved away from this older technology. Instead of ignition leads, this model is equipped with a coil-on-plug ignition system. That means each spark plug has an individual ignition coil mounted directly on top of it. This design doesn't require ignition leads because the electrical connection happens right on the plug itself. The coil-on-plug setup is more modern and efficient, reducing electrical resistance and ensuring more precise spark delivery.

There are a few reasons why the coil-on-plug system is preferred over traditional ignition leads in vehicles like the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander:

• Improved ignition performance with stronger, more consistent sparks
• Reduced risk of electrical interference that can affect other electronic systems
• Less maintenance since there are no ignition leads to wear out or crack over time
• Better fuel efficiency and lower emissions due to precise ignition timing

For owners of a 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander, this means you won't be looking for ignition leads when it comes time for routine maintenance or repairs. Instead, attention should be focused on the coil-on-plug units and the spark plugs themselves.

Even though ignition leads aren't part of the picture here, the ignition system still requires regular care to keep the car running smoothly. The coil-on-plug units are generally reliable and long-lasting, but they can wear out or fail over time. Signs of a faulty ignition coil include rough idling, misfires, difficulty starting, and a noticeable drop in engine power.

Regular servicing of the ignition system in your Outlander usually involves checking the condition of the spark plugs and the coils, and replacing them as needed. Spark plugs in particular should be inspected for wear, deposits, or damage. Most manufacturers recommend spark plug replacement every 60,000 to 100,000 kilometres, but it's a good idea to check your vehicle's specific maintenance schedule to be sure.

Replacing ignition coils is less frequent but can be necessary if a coil fails or starts causing performance issues. When replacing coils, it's important to use high-quality parts designed specifically for the Mitsubishi Outlander to maintain optimal engine performance.

Keeping the ignition system healthy is crucial for the smooth operation of the Outlander's engine. Neglecting spark plug or coil maintenance can lead to poor fuel economy, increased emissions, and potential damage to the catalytic converter. These problems can also cause the engine warning light to come on, signalling that something needs attention.

In addition to mechanical checks, it's useful to keep the ignition area clean and dry as much as possible. Moisture or oil intrusion can sometimes cause coil-on-plug units to misfire or fail prematurely. During servicing, technicians often inspect the electrical connections and ensure everything is secured properly.

At the end of the day, while the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander does not utilise ignition leads like older vehicles, its coil-on-plug ignition system represents an advancement in automotive technology designed for reliability and efficiency. For owners, focusing on spark plug and ignition coil maintenance during servicing will help keep the vehicle running like new for years to come.