Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
NIPPONDENSO Electronic Ignition System: Description
The Nippondenso electronic ignition system includes a breakerless distributor, an ignitor (ignition control unit), a special ignition coil, and ignition switch.
The distributor consists of a housing, rotor, and cap. It contains a signal rotor (timing rotor or reluctor), magnet, and a magnetic pick-up coil assembly. See Fig 1. On Subaru models, the ignitor is mounted inside the distributor.
On other models, the transistorized ignitor is mounted on the ignition coil housing. Distributors contain both centrifugal and vacuum advance mechanisms.
Toyota distributor is shown. Subaru distributors contain an integral ignitor.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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