When building a high-performance engine, every component must work in harmony to extract maximum power and reliability. One of the most critical systems for achieving this is the ignition. A weak or inconsistent spark can lead to misfires, poor throttle response, and lost horsepower, especially in forced-induction or high-compression applications. Upgrading your ignition system is a fundamental step toward ensuring your engine runs as strong as it looks.
AEM Electronics is a trusted name in the performance industry, known for developing ignition solutions that meet the demands of professional racers and enthusiasts alike. From individual high-output coils to complete engine management systems with integrated ignition control, AEM offers a product for nearly every need. This roundup will guide you through their best EPM ignition products to help you make an informed decision for your build.
Our Top AEM Ignition System Picks
- AEM 30-2853 High Output Smart Coil
- AEM 30-2853 High Output IGBT Inductive Smart Ignition Coil SET OF 4
- AEM Electronics 30-3320-2 Performance Ignition Coil Pack Set
- AEM Electronics 30-2853 Smart Coil 6-Cylinder Coil-On-Plug System Kit
- AEM Electronics 30-2854 Smart Coil 8-Cylinder Coil-On-Plug System Kit
- AEM Electronics 30-2200 Infinity ECU with Integrated CDI Ignition
- AEM Electronics 30-2901 EVO-Series Coil-On-Plug Smart Coil Kit
- AEM Electronics 30-1600 Infinity ECU Engine Management System
AEM 30-2853 High Output Smart Coil
For enthusiasts seeking a significant boost in spark energy, the AEM 30-2853 High Output Smart Coil is an excellent single-coil solution. It is engineered to deliver a powerful, long-duration spark, making it particularly effective for high-boost or high-compression engines where a standard coil may struggle. This capability helps prevent misfires and ensures more complete combustion for consistent power output.
This coil generates massive spark energy, up to 118 mJ, with an output voltage capable of reaching 41 Kilovolts without requiring a separate CDI unit. Its robust design is both weather and shock-proof, providing durability in demanding environments. The adjustable backlighting, controlled by a dial on the back, allows for customization to match your dashboard’s lighting.
AEM 30-2853 High Output IGBT Inductive Smart Ignition Coil SET OF 4
This set of four AEM High-Output Inductive Coils provides a complete upgrade for many modern four-cylinder engines. Each coil in the set delivers over 100mJ of spark energy and a minimum of 40,000 Volts, performance that rivals many Capacitive Discharge Ignition (CDI) systems. This eliminates the complexity and cost of adding an external CDI module while providing top-tier spark performance.
The key advantage of these coils is their ability to provide full energy delivery over a long duration. This characteristic is vital for maintaining a strong spark under extreme cylinder pressures, ensuring that the air/fuel mixture is ignited reliably. For anyone building a performance-oriented four-cylinder engine, this set is a straightforward way to increase ignition system capability.
AEM Electronics 30-3320-2 Performance Ignition Coil Pack Set
The AEM 30-3320-2 Performance Ignition Coil Pack Set is designed as a direct, bolt-on replacement for specific vehicle applications. This type of set is ideal for those who want the reliability and performance of AEM coils without the need for custom wiring or fabrication. It offers a practical upgrade over worn or underperforming factory coils.
By installing a matched set of these performance coils, you can expect a more consistent spark across all cylinders. This consistency leads to smoother engine operation, improved throttle response, and can help restore lost power. It’s a solid choice for daily drivers and weekend performance cars alike, providing peace of mind and enhanced driveability.
AEM Electronics 30-2853 Smart Coil 6-Cylinder Coil-On-Plug Ignition System Kit
This kit provides a complete ignition system solution for 6-cylinder engines, bundling six of the renowned AEM 30-2853 Smart Coils with all necessary components for a professional installation. It is perfect for engine swaps, standalone ECU installations, or anyone building a high-performance inline-six or V6 engine from the ground up.
The advantage of a complete kit is the assurance that all parts are designed to work together seamlessly. You receive a matched set of high-output coils capable of handling significant boost and compression, along with the required wiring harness. This eliminates the guesswork, saving time and ensuring a reliable, high-performance ignition system for your project.
AEM Electronics 30-2854 Smart Coil 8-Cylinder Coil-On-Plug Ignition System Kit
Mirroring the 6-cylinder kit, the AEM 30-2854 kit is tailored for V8 and other 8-cylinder engines. It includes eight AEM Smart Coils and a corresponding wiring harness, providing everything needed to implement a powerful coil-on-plug ignition system. This is a popular choice for domestic V8 builds and other high-displacement applications.
With eight cylinders to manage, a robust and consistent ignition system is non-negotiable for making reliable power. This kit ensures that each cylinder receives the same intense, long-duration spark, which is critical for engine smoothness and performance at high RPM. It represents a foundational upgrade for any serious eight-cylinder performance build.
AEM Electronics 30-2200 Infinity ECU with Integrated CDI Ignition
The AEM 30-2200 Infinity ECU represents the pinnacle of engine management by combining a fully programmable ECU with a powerful integrated CDI ignition system. This all-in-one unit is designed for the most demanding racing applications where precise control over ignition timing and spark energy is paramount.
By integrating the CDI, this system eliminates the need for external ignition boxes, simplifying wiring and packaging. It provides extremely high spark energy for applications with ultra-high boost levels or exotic fuels. For professional motorsports teams and builders pushing the boundaries of engine performance, this ECU offers unparalleled control and capability directly from the main engine management unit.
AEM Electronics 30-2901 EVO-Series Coil-On-Plug Smart Coil Kit
The AEM 30-2901 EVO-Series kit is a versatile solution designed for a wide range of 4-cylinder applications. It features AEM’s EVO-Series smart coils, which are compact and designed to fit in spaces where larger coils might not. This makes them ideal for custom installations and engines with tight packaging constraints.
Despite their smaller size, these coils do not compromise on performance. They deliver the strong, reliable spark that AEM is known for, ensuring efficient combustion in performance-tuned engines. The kit format provides all necessary components for a clean and professional installation, making it a great plug-and-play style upgrade for many popular platforms.
AEM Electronics 30-1600 Infinity ECU Programmable Engine Management System
While not exclusively an ignition product, the AEM 30-1600 Infinity ECU is the brain that can fully utilize high-performance ignition systems like AEM’s Smart Coils. This powerful, standalone engine management system gives you complete control over ignition timing, dwell, and other critical parameters, allowing you to perfectly tune the ignition for your specific engine setup.
Pairing this ECU with an AEM coil kit creates a synergistic relationship where the management and the hardware are optimized for each other. The ECU can drive the coils directly, enabling advanced features like individual cylinder trim and complex timing strategies. For a comprehensive build where every aspect of performance is tuned, this ECU is the central command unit.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right AEM EPM Ignition System
When I’m looking to upgrade my car’s ignition, the AEM EPM series is always a strong contender. These systems are known for their ability to deliver a more powerful and reliable spark, which is great for performance driving. But with a few different models available, figuring out which one is the right fit for my specific setup can be the tricky part. I’ve learned it’s not just about picking the most expensive one; it’s about matching the system’s capabilities to my engine’s needs and my performance goals.
The first thing I always consider is my vehicle’s application. Am I driving a daily driver where I just want smoother operation and better throttle response? Or am I building a high-horsepower forced-induction monster that needs every advantage it can get to prevent spark blow-out? For most street applications, a standard EPM coil-on-plug kit is a fantastic upgrade over worn-out factory parts. It provides a stronger, more consistent spark without being overkill. If I’m running significant boost or high compression, that’s when I start looking at the EPM Smart Coils, which offer even higher energy output and advanced control features.
Next, I check for compatibility. This goes beyond just the physical fitment on my engine. I make sure the system is designed to work with my car’s stock ECU or my aftermarket engine management system. Some AEM EPM systems are plug-and-play for specific makes and models, which makes installation a breeze. Others might require a separate ignition driver module or specific tuning adjustments to function correctly. I always double-check the product listing or consult with a knowledgeable tuner to avoid any costly installation surprises.
Finally, I think about the long-term benefits. A quality ignition system like the 8 Review of the Best AEM EPM Ignition Systems isn’t just about peak power. A stronger spark leads to more complete combustion, which can improve fuel economy, reduce emissions, and help keep my spark plugs cleaner for longer. It’s an upgrade that pays for itself in both performance and engine health. By taking the time to assess my needs honestly, I can choose an AEM EPM system that delivers exactly what I’m looking for without spending money on features I’ll never use.
FAQ
What makes an AEM EPM system better than my stock ignition coils?
The main difference is in the power and consistency of the spark. Stock coils are designed to be cost-effective and meet general reliability standards. AEM EPM coils are performance-oriented. They can produce a much hotter, more powerful spark. This is crucial for igniting leaner air/fuel mixtures or mixtures under high boost pressure, which can easily extinguish a weaker stock spark. This leads to more complete combustion, which translates to better throttle response, more power, and improved efficiency.
Are these ignition systems difficult to install?
It really depends on the specific kit and your vehicle. Many AEM EPM kits are designed as direct plug-and-play replacements for the factory coils. This means you simply unplug the old ones, remove them, and plug the new ones in. It’s a job that many enthusiasts can handle in their own garage. However, if your application requires an external ignition driver module or specific wiring modifications, the complexity increases significantly. I always recommend reviewing the installation instructions for your specific part number before purchasing.
Will I need a tune after installing new AEM EPM coils?
For basic plug-and-play replacement coils that are a direct upgrade for your stock ones, you often will not need a tune. The engine’s computer will simply take advantage of the more robust spark. However, if you are switching to a different type of ignition system, like going from a traditional coil-on-plug to a CDI-style system, or if you are significantly increasing the spark energy on a highly modified engine, a tune is highly recommended. A professional tuner can adjust ignition timing and other parameters to fully optimize the new system’s potential.
Can these ignition systems work with forced induction like a turbo or supercharger?
Absolutely. In fact, that’s one of the primary reasons to upgrade. Forced induction packs more air into the cylinders, increasing cylinder pressure. This high pressure makes it much harder for the spark to jump the gap at the plug, a phenomenon known as “spark blow-out.” The high-energy spark from an AEM EPM system is much more resistant to being blown out, ensuring reliable ignition under boost. This is essential for making consistent power and preventing misfires in turbo or supercharged applications.
How long do AEM EPM coils typically last?
While they are high-performance components, they are also built to be durable. Under normal operating conditions, you can expect them to last for tens of thousands of miles. Their lifespan can be influenced by factors like extreme under-hood temperatures and the general stress of high-performance use. They are generally considered a very reliable long-term upgrade. It’s a good idea to inspect them periodically for any signs of physical damage or cracking, just as you would with any other engine component.