Hi all,

I've been trying to do some research on the org about ignition coils and I believe I will need to replace one. I was looking into my options and there were a few questions I'd like to have answered before making my decision. These questions don't seem to be answered from what I've read so hopefully, someone with more knowledge than me could answer them.

1) One of the biggest signs I've seen that have people pointing to the coils is a misfire P030X code. I've also read that the P1320 code is a sure sign that a coil is bad.
In my case, I have an 02 6MT. I bought mine used about half a year ago with 116k and to my knowledge, I've never gotten the P1320. However, I've had the P0300 intermittently and for the first time, I noticed a P0302. The light has since disappeared so I will do the test by unplugging the coil if it happens again. My question is this:
Do you HAVE to have a P1320 to know that the coil is bad, or have there been instances where a coil is bad with just a P030X code?

2) I've heard of the 'gray dots'. I know the 5th gen and 5.5 gen coils are different. Are there 'gray dot' spec ones for the 5.5 gen?

3) Replacement brands: I've been looking around and It seems that you can no longer get a set for under $350 from dave B anymore. The price for one is now over $80. I'm looking for cheaper alternatives so I was wondering if a replacement brand would be good? I've seen Prenco and BWD. I've read the ones about BWD's melting and whatnot but not so much on Prencos. Any advice on this?

4) Used coils: Another option is of course, used coils. I've tried to buy them but so far all sales have fell through. What is a good deal on used ones? What's the typical lifespan on these (if there is one)? Someone wanted $75 shipped for a set of 6 with 80k miles. Would that be a good deal?

5) It seems that the problems with coils are more of a 2k and 2k1 thing, but is it still common for the 5.5s to go bad.

6) How can you tell if you're looking at 5th gen or 5.5 gen coils? Someone mentioned one was rounder? All of the 5.5s are the same length as opposed to 5th gens.

If I can think of other questions, I'll try and edit this thread. Hopefully, the answers to other's questions on these can all be found in one place.

Thanks for reading everyone

 

I just ordered a rear coil for my 00 max from DaveB. Chose to go with 01 coil as I have no faith in the 00 coil even though the coil failure is fully documented.

The price is high becoz the yen is gaining against the dollar.

 

There seems to be a wealth of info on the 2k coils, but not too much on the 02 and 03. Hope more 5.5 gen owners can answer questions

 

Can anyone comment on the 5.5 gen coils at all?