Car Distributor repair & replacement made easy

What does a Distributor do?

Older cars are usually fitted with a distributor, which is a device that distributes the electric energy from the iginition coil to the car's spark plugs situated in the engine's cylinders, which turn the electricity into a spark. Modern cars, on the other hand, usually have engines with direct ignition.

The distributor's two main components are the distributor rotor and cap. The rotor rotates within the distributor and distributes the high voltage electricity by way of contact points to the spark plug leads that are attached to the distributor cap. In turn the spark plug leads send the electricity to the spark plugs.

How do you know there is something wrong with the Distributor?

• When the engine does not run smoothly.
• When the 'Check Engine' light on the dashboard of your car is illuminated.
• When the engine does not start.
• When the engine's cylinders appear to misfire.
• When there are unusual noises coming from the engine.

When should you consider a Distributor replacement?

Over time the rotor and cap's condition can deteriorate due to wear. The cap and the contact points inside can, for example, be affected by erosion or corrosion. Equally, carbon can build up inside the rotor cap on and around the contact points, diverting electricity from the points. Both lead to a decreased electric current to run from the rotor arm through the contact points, in turn leading to a diminished spark at the spark plug. Misfires inside the engine can then occur.

The condensor is instrumental in creating a flat electricity flow to the spark plugs, decreasing the voltage as well as absorbing undesirable voltage peaks created by the coil. It stores electricity from the coil when the distributor's contact points are open and releases it each time contact points close. If the condensor inside the distributor is faulty, the condensor cannot absorb the excess electricity from the coil. A faulty condensor can lead to excessive wear on the contact points and spark plugs as well as engine misfires.

It is therefore important to service the distributor as and when stipulated in the guidelines set out by your car's manufacturer. It is essential that the distributor is kept in a good condition, this should contribute to a prolonged distributor lifespan.

Should you experience problems like those noted earlier then it is important to have the distributor inspected and, if necessary, have it replaced.

What happens during a Distributor replacement?

• Mechanic will inspect the ignition system.
• If necessary, the mechanic will replace the distributor.
• Mechanic will recalibrate the ignition timing.
• Mechanic will advise if any other parts need to be replaced.
• Mechanic will check the ignition system and test drive the car.
• Mechanic will make any adjustments to the ignition if necessary.

How much does a Distributor replacement cost?

The cost of a distributor replacement depends on your car and what parts your car's manufacturer recommends using for the replacement. Find out what you could save by having your distributor replaced by Clickmechanic, by selecting your car at the top of this page!