Ram ProMaster 2500 Ignition Coil Guide (2014-2024)
Keep your ProMaster's 3.6L Pentastar engine running smoothly by understanding when and how to replace your ignition coils.
- A flashing check engine light indicates a severe misfire; avoid driving to prevent catalytic converter damage.
- Replacing spark plugs at the same time as ignition coils is highly recommended for long-term reliability.
- The front three coils are much harder to replace than the rear three due to intake manifold removal.
- For a work van, choosing a reputable aftermarket brand like Bosch, Delphi, or NGK offers a good balance of quality and cost.
Is Your ProMaster's Ignition Coil Failing?
A bad ignition coil can cause noticeable problems with your van's engine. Because the 3.6L Pentastar V6 has a dedicated coil for each cylinder, a single coil failure will usually affect only one cylinder. This often results in a specific misfire code. If you continue driving with a misfiring cylinder, unburned fuel can enter the exhaust and damage the expensive catalytic converter.
Common Symptoms of a Bad Ignition Coil:
- Check Engine Light: This is the most common sign. The light may be steady or flashing. A flashing light indicates a severe misfire that requires immediate attention.
- Rough Idle and Engine Vibration: The engine may shake or run unevenly, especially when stopped.
- Engine Misfires: You might feel a hesitation, stumble, or jerking sensation during acceleration.
- Reduced Power and Fuel Economy: Your van may feel sluggish and you'll likely notice you're using more fuel than usual.
- Difficulty Starting: A weak or dead coil can make it hard for the engine to start.
Known Issues and Recalls
While there are no widespread recalls specifically for ignition coils on the 2014-2024 ProMaster, there was a recall for the ignition switch on some 2015 models. This recall (NHTSA ID: 15V799, Chrysler R64) involved an intermittent loss of electrical contact in the switch, which could cause the vehicle to stall. This is a separate part from the ignition coils themselves. No Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) directly related to ignition coil failure were found during research.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
When replacing a coil, you have a choice between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Mopar parts and a wide range of aftermarket brands. For a work vehicle like the ProMaster, reliability is key.
- OEM-Equivalent Brands (Tier 1): Brands like Bosch, Delphi, NGK, and Standard Ignition (SMP) are known for manufacturing parts that meet or exceed original factory specifications. They are a trusted choice for a reliable, long-lasting repair without the higher cost of a dealer part. Hitachi is another reputable OEM supplier.
- Performance Brands: Some brands, like RIPP or Performance Distributors, offer high-performance coils that claim to produce a stronger spark for increased horsepower and better fuel economy. These are generally not necessary for a standard work van unless you have other performance modifications.
- Value-Oriented Brands (Tier 2): Brands like DriveWire, Encore, and others offer a more budget-friendly option. While they can be a good choice for a quick fix or if cost is the primary concern, their long-term durability may not match that of Tier 1 brands.
Ram ProMaster 2500 Ignition Coil Cost
| Part Type | Price Range (Single Coil) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Aftermarket | $28.58 - $152.95 | Wide range from value to premium brands. |
| New OEM (Mopar) | $88 - $129 | Genuine factory part. |
| Shop Labor Cost | $244 - $409 | Varies by location and which coil(s) are being replaced. The rear coils are harder to access. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it hard to replace a ProMaster ignition coil?
The difficulty depends on which coil has failed. The front three coils (cylinders 2, 4, 6) are difficult to access because the upper intake manifold must be removed. 🎬 Watch this walkthrough for replacing coils under the intake manifold. The rear three coils (cylinders 1, 3, 5) are much easier and can be accessed by simply removing the air intake tube. 🎬 See how easy it is to replace coils on Pentastar engines. Because of the labor involved for the front bank, many owners choose to replace all three front coils and spark plugs at the same time. The job requires basic hand tools like a 10mm socket and ratchet.
Should I replace just one coil or all of them?
If one coil fails, especially on a higher-mileage vehicle, it's a good practice to replace the full set of six. This is preventative maintenance, as all coils have experienced similar wear. At a minimum, if a front coil fails, it is highly recommended to replace all three front coils and spark plugs due to the labor required to remove the intake manifold.
What are the most common misfire codes for a bad coil?
You will typically see a code specific to the cylinder that is misfiring. These codes range from P0301 (Cylinder 1) to P0306 (Cylinder 6). 🎬 Watch: Understanding misfire codes P0301 through P0306 on your ProMaster. A general random misfire code is P0300.
Do I need to replace the spark plugs with the coils?
It is highly recommended. The labor to access the coils is the same as accessing the spark plugs. Worn spark plugs can put extra strain on the new ignition coils, causing them to fail prematurely. Replacing them together ensures the entire ignition system is refreshed.
What is the difference between an ignition coil and a coil boot?
The coil is the electronic part that generates the high voltage. The boot is the rubber sleeve that insulates the connection between the coil and the spark plug. On the 3.6L Pentastar engine, the rubber boots can fail from heat and oil exposure, causing a misfire even if the coil itself is still good. Some aftermarket kits include new boots, and they can sometimes be purchased separately.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 5149168AI 5149168AJ 5149168AH 68223569AB 68223569AC
Coil-on-Plug (COP) design for the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine. Each coil is secured by a 10mm bolt.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Ram ProMaster 2500: