When building a performance car, most drivers focus on air, fuel, and exhaust. But without a strong, reliable ignition system, your engine can’t fire properly, and all that expensive airflow and fueling go to waste. Whether you’re chasing horsepower, reliability, or better throttle response, upgrading your ignition system is a critical step you don’t want to overlook.
At WOT Performance Parts, we know the difference a strong ignition setup can make. Here's everything you need to know about upgrading your ignition system for more power, reliability, and performance. Contact us today for more information.
What Does The Ignition System Do?
Your ignition system’s primary job is simple: ignite the air-fuel mixture inside the combustion chamber at exactly the right moment.
It’s responsible for:
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Generating high voltage (20,000–60,000 volts or more)
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Timing the spark accurately with the piston position
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Ensuring strong, consistent combustion across all RPM ranges
Weak or inconsistent ignition leads to:
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Misfires
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Loss of power
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Rough idle
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Poor fuel economy
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Potential engine damage under boost or high load
A proper ignition upgrade ensures you unlock the full potential of your performance parts.
Signs Your Ignition System Needs Upgrading
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Engine misfires under load or at high RPMs
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Hard starts, especially when hot or cold
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Poor throttle response
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Decreased fuel economy
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Trouble maintaining boost (for forced induction builds)
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CEL codes related to misfires (P0300-series codes)
If you're adding more power with turbos, superchargers, nitrous, or high-compression builds, upgrading your ignition is essential to handle the increased demands.
Key Components To Upgrade
1. Spark Plugs
Performance spark plugs are the easiest and most cost-effective upgrade. Look for:
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Iridium or platinum plugs for long life and a strong spark
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One or two steps colder plugs for boosted or high-compression engines
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Proper gap for your power level and boost pressure
Important: Always adjust the spark plug gap according to your tuner’s recommendations—smaller gaps are often needed for high-boost setups.
2. Ignition Coils
Coil-on-plug systems are common on modern engines, but stock coils often can't keep up with performance demands.
Benefits of upgraded coils:
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Stronger spark at higher RPM
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Reduced misfires under heavy load
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Better throttle response and combustion efficiency
Brands like MSD, Accel, and NGK offer high-performance coil upgrades for many popular platforms.
3. Plug Wires
For engines with distributor or external coil packs, high-quality plug wires matter.
Look for:
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Low resistance
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High heat protection
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EMI (electromagnetic interference) shielding
MSD Super Conductor or Taylor Spiro Pro wires are excellent options for serious builds.
4. Ignition Control Modules (ICM)
Older vehicles or performance standalone ECUs sometimes benefit from upgraded or standalone ignition modules.
Benefits include:
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Programmable ignition timing curves
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Two-step rev limiters for launch control
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Better spark control at high RPM
Ideal for race builds, drag cars, or full-tune applications.
5. Performance Distributors (For Older Engines)
If you're building a classic or older platform, swapping to a high-performance distributor ensures stronger and more accurate spark delivery.
Modern distributor upgrades offer:
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Better advanced curves
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Higher RPM capability
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Cleaner spark distribution at high speeds
Important Factors To Consider
🔧 Match Your Setup
Your ignition upgrades should match your build level. Mild bolt-ons? Performance plugs and coils will suffice. Full forged build with 25 psi of boost? You’ll need stronger coils, colder plugs, and tighter gaps.
🔧 ECU Tuning May Be Required
After ignition upgrades (especially with standalone ignition systems), tuning adjustments may be needed to optimize timing curves and prevent knock.
🔧 Watch Heat Range And Gaps
Using the wrong heat range or incorrect gap can cause more harm than good. Always consult your parts supplier, tuner, or manufacturer's recommendations.
Bonus Tip: Maintenance Matters
Even the best ignition systems need care:
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Replace plugs at regular intervals (especially if boosted or raced)
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Inspect coil packs and plug wires for cracks or heat damage
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Monitor spark plug color for signs of detonation, richness, or lean conditions
Proper maintenance ensures you keep all that hard-earned horsepower running strong.
Build A Stronger Spark With WOT Performance Parts
At WOT Performance Parts, we stock a complete range of performance ignition upgrades—from spark plugs and coils to full ignition control modules. Whether you’re refreshing a street car or prepping a boosted monster for the track, we’ve got the parts and expertise you need to keep the fire lit.
