Checking the ignition coil (VW Beetle)

Accurate testing of the coil is only possible with a special device. If there is no such device, then the check can be carried out as follows:

Remove the high-voltage wire from the central socket of the ignition distributor cap and position its tip 10 mm from the ground. Turn on the starter. At the same time, a spark should jump from the end of the wire.

If the spark does not jump, check the voltage at terminal 15 of the ignition coil with a voltmeter when the ignition is on. The voltage value must be at least 9 V.

If the voltage is less than the specified value, check using a voltmeter or test lamp for the absence of voltage at terminal 1 of the ignition coil when the contacts are closed and the presence of voltage when the contacts are open. Closed contacts (the engine is rotated by the starter) can be spread using a screwdriver.

If the voltmeter needle does not move or the indicator lamp does not light when the breaker contacts are open, replace the ignition coil.