The ignition module of the BMW is an essential component for controlling firing and ignition timing. If the ignition module fails, it will result in multiple issues that require expensive repair and even replacements. Thus, it is important for you to know the symptoms and causes so you can fix them immediately.
Bad Ignition Control Module Symptoms
Below are the symptoms that indicate the failure of the ignition control module in BMW.
- Engine Misfires: A bad ICM is often detected through prolonged misfires, which are one of the common symptoms. The health and longevity of an engine depend on the Integrated Control Module (ICM), which provides a steady signal to the ignition coil. If such signals are lost, the engine’s timing will be out, and it will either run unsteadily or stall. This symptom is usually detectable during acceleration or in the speedometer of 60 miles per hour and above. If you experience this sign, take your car to a European vehicle repair shop to get it fixed.
- Stalling and Sputtering: Engine misfire might be the outcome of ICM’s malfunction, which can lead to the motor running irregularly. If ICM fails to adjust the timing of the sparks appropriately, the combustion will have intermittency, lose power, and sometimes, it will not even start, especially when idling.
- Difficulty Starting the Engine: ICM can disable the engine either because the engine is being started or because of the internal components. If the ICM is not holding the right message to the ignition coil, the spark plugs can find it hard to supply the spark, making it difficult to ignite the car. This problem is even more of a problem when the engine has just been turned on.
- Poor Fuel Efficiency: Such a bad ICM may also affect fuel economy to the lower side since it disrupts the accurate alignment of the ignition system. When a fuel-optimized combustion process is not achieved correctly, the fuel may not be burned effectively evenly, thus resulting in worse miles per gallon and an overall decrease in a vehicle’s fuel economy.
- Increased Emissions: The engine’s output can increase in case of damage to the ICM system. If the fuel-air mixture doesn’t ignite at the proper time, unburned fuel can pass through the exhaust system and may result in emissions that exceed the standard, which may result in the vehicle failing the emissions test.
Causes For a Failed Ignition Control Module
Here are some of the common causes for a failed ignition control module.
- Heat and Temperature Fluctuations: Ignition Control Modules (ICMs) frequently find themselves close to the high temperatures prevalent in the engine area. Ultimately, temperature fluctuations, heat, and other stresses can, over time, adversely affect the overall operation of the ICM, which may lead to its degradation or failure. Engine compartments can be very hot, especially when there is heavy traffic, which produces stop-and-go or prolonged idling, and as a result, module wear is increased prematurely.
- Electrical Overload: Overpowering charges to the vehicle’s overall electrical capacity or high voltage spikes in the ICM systems will overload the ICM. That might be because of the alternator’s problems, ignition coil errors, or battery flaws. The ICM is unable to perform its intended function due to an electrical overload. As an outcome, it might get damaged, preventing the accurate ignition timing.
- Poor Grounding: Accurate grounding is one of the most important things to ensure the precise and efficient operation of electrical parts such as the ICM. An ICM with a low or corroded ground maturity can still undercut the flow of electrical signals and cause the latter to malfunction. The proper and regular inspection and maintenance of the grounding points will make sure that the grounding issues are off the floor.
- Moisture and Corrosion: Besides humidity and corrosion, another major cause of ICM failure is Engried water or corrosive substances that can penetrate the ignition control module and cause internal damage. The issue is particularly critical in the regions with high levels of humidity or salt used on roads, as it speeds up the process of corrosion.
- Age and Wear: Digital ignition control mechanisms, just as with any electronic equipment, have a limited lifespan. Over time, the interior pieces of the ICM may get bad and fall apart, resulting in either fewer or poor performance or the entire failure of the system. Proactive maintenance and monitoring will avoid impending wear and tear while they are still manageable.
Replacement Costs in the USA
In the American market, you may find various pricing options for replacing a faulty BMW ignition module based on several factors, such as model, engine, or repair shop labor rates. Owners can usually be charged about $200 – $600 for the parts and labor costs. Unlike aftermarket parts, the OEM ignition modules sold directly from the dealership are of high quality and may be expensive, but the warranty guarantees them.
