The ignition coil module in your vehicle ignites the spark plugs by accepting a signal from the distributor's magnetic pickup, and using that signal to modulate the ground circuit. It is generally located inside the distributor, which means it is quite easy to access. Some Ford vehicles, however, have the module located on the distributor housing. If the ignition coil module malfunctions, you will no longer be able to start your vehicle's engine.
Open the hood of the vehicle. Check your owner's manual for the ignition system wiring diagram to locate the power cable that feeds the ignition system.
Touch the test light lead of the Digital volt/ohm meter (DVOM) to the negative battery cable, then touch the other lead to the power cable, and read the meter. The light on the meter should come on to indicate that you have a good ground. If the light does not come on, check the connections of the grounding cable to make sure they are secure. Virtually any reading above 0 volts on the meter indicates that the system is receiving power. If the meter reads 0, inspect the fuse for the ignition system in the fuse box.
Start the engine, and have a friend rev the engine while you test the ignition pickup coil.
Touch the positive lead of the DVOM to the power cable, then touch the negative lead of the DVOM to the grounding cable. If the meter picks up any signal at all, this means that your ignition coil module is working. If no current is registered, this means the coil is bad.
Touch the positive lead of the DVOM to the positive side of coil, then touch the negative lead of the DVOM to the grounding cable. Again, if there is a registered signal, the coil is good. If there is no signal, the coil is bad.
