For any serious engine builder or performance enthusiast, achieving a powerful and consistent spark is non-negotiable. Whether you’re running high boost, high compression, or simply demand maximum reliability from your ignition system, the quality of your coil packs is paramount. Weak or failing coils can lead to misfires, poor throttle response, and a significant loss of power, robbing your engine of its true potential.
This roundup focuses on AEM’s renowned line of High Output coils, known for delivering exceptional spark energy without the complexity of a separate CDI ignition system. We have compiled a list of their top offerings and related ignition components to help you make an informed decision. Upgrading to a high-output coil is one of the most effective ways to ensure complete combustion, improve performance, and protect your engine under demanding conditions.
Top AEM High Output Coils for Your Engine
- AEM 30-2853 High Output Smart Coil
- AEM 30-2853 High Output IGBT Coil Universal SET OF 4
- AEM 30-2852 High Output Inductive Coil
- AEM 30-2853 High Output IGBT Coil Universal SET OF 2
- AEM High Output Inductive Smart Coil Universal
- NOCO GENIUS1 Smart Battery Charger and Maintainer
- MSD 8202 Blaster 2 High Performance Ignition Coil
- Bosch Automotive Original Equipment Ignition Coil
- AEM 20-1223 High Output Ignition Coil
AEM 30-2853 High Output Smart Coil
This AEM Smart Coil is engineered to deliver a powerful, long-duration spark, making it an ideal component for high-boost or high-compression engines. It produces massive spark energy, up to 118 mJ, and can generate up to 41 kilovolts of output voltage without requiring an external CDI unit. This ensures a strong and reliable spark even under extreme operating conditions.
Built for durability, the coil features a weather and shock-proof design to withstand the harsh environment of an engine bay. The adjustable backlighting, controlled by a dial on the back, allows for customization to match your dashboard’s lighting, combining performance with a tailored aesthetic.
AEM 30-2853 High Output IGBT Inductive Smart Ignition Coil Universal SET OF 4
This value-packed set includes four AEM High-Output Inductive Coils, providing a complete solution for V8 engines or a full set of replacements for a four-cylinder. Each coil in the set delivers over 100mJ of spark energy and a minimum of 40,000 volts, a level of performance that rivals most CDI systems but without the added cost and complexity of a CDI module.
The full energy delivery and extended spark duration ensure that your ignition system does not have to compromise, leading to more complete combustion. This directly translates to increased performance and reliability, especially in modified engines running high levels of boost or compression.
AEM 30-2852 High Output Inductive Coil
The AEM 30-2852 is a high-output inductive coil designed for performance applications where a strong spark is critical. It is capable of producing up to 118 mJ of spark energy and 41 kilovolts of output voltage, all without the need for an external capacitive discharge ignition (CDI) unit. This makes it a powerful and straightforward upgrade.
Constructed to last, this coil features a robust weather and shock-proof design. Like its sibling, it also includes the convenience of adjustable backlighting, allowing you to fine-tune the gauge’s illumination to your preference directly from a dial on the back of the unit.
AEM 30-2853 High Output IGBT Inductive Smart Ignition Coil Universal SET OF 2
This two-pack offers a perfect solution for those needing a pair of high-performance coils, ideal for a twin-cylinder engine or for keeping a spare. Each coil delivers the same impressive specifications as the single and four-pack versions, with over 100mJ of energy and 40,000 volts of output.
By providing a long-duration, high-energy spark, these coils help prevent misfires and ensure efficient combustion. This is particularly beneficial for performance engines where maintaining a consistent spark under high cylinder pressure is essential for power and engine safety.
AEM High Output Inductive Smart Coil Universal
This universal High Output Inductive Smart Coil from AEM is designed to provide a significant upgrade for a wide range of applications. It is built to deliver the strong, reliable spark that performance engines require, helping to optimize combustion and improve overall engine response.
As a universal fit component, it offers versatility for various custom and upgrade projects. While specific technical features for this model are not listed, it carries the AEM reputation for quality and is engineered to meet the demands of high-output ignition systems.
NOCO GENIUS1 Smart Battery Charger and Maintainer
A strong ignition system relies on a healthy battery, and the NOCO GENIUS1 is an excellent tool for ensuring that. This compact yet powerful unit is an all-in-one solution, functioning as a battery charger, maintainer, trickle charger, and desulfator. It is compatible with 6V and 12V lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries.
Its precision charging capability is enhanced by an integrated thermal sensor that adjusts the charge based on ambient temperature. This prevents overcharging in hot weather and undercharging in cold weather, which helps to extend the overall life and performance of your vehicle’s battery.
MSD 8202 Blaster 2 High Performance Ignition Coil
The MSD Blaster 2 is a well-known high-performance canister-style coil that is a popular choice for many ignition upgrades. It features an alkyd tower with high dielectric properties, which makes it less prone to carbon tracking and failure, ensuring a consistent high-voltage output.
This coil is designed to work with Blaster Ignitions or MSD 5, 6, and 7 Series ignitions, and requires a ballast resistor for points systems. The metal canister is filled with a premium grade oil that provides effective cooling, helping to maintain stable performance and longevity.
Bosch Automotive Original Equipment Ignition Coil
This Bosch ignition coil is an original equipment (OE) part, meaning it is built to meet the exact specifications of many vehicle manufacturers. It is engineered to deliver a high-voltage surge to the distributor reliably, providing the spark needed for consistent engine operation.
The coil features a high-voltage boot that is molded directly to the coil body, which helps prevent moisture ingress and ensures a good connection. A silicone over-mold offers better insulation against high temperatures and reduces the potential for corrosion, contributing to the coil’s durability.
AEM 20-1223 High Output Ignition Coil
This AEM High Output Ignition Coil is another option from a brand trusted in the performance industry. Designed to provide a stronger and more reliable spark than many stock coils, it is suited for both upgraded street engines and more demanding racing applications.
While specific technical details for this model are not provided here, AEM’s focus on high-output performance suggests it is built to improve combustion efficiency and engine response. It is always recommended to verify the specific fitment and specifications for your vehicle before purchasing.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in the Best AEM High Output Coil
When you are looking for consistent performance from your engine, upgrading to a high-output ignition coil is a solid move. I have found that AEM coils are a popular choice, but even within their lineup, you need to know what to pick. The goal is to get a stronger, more reliable spark, especially if you are running forced induction, high compression, or just want to eliminate misfires. It is not just about grabbing the first box you see on the shelf; it is about matching the coil to your engine’s specific demands and your own goals for the vehicle.
First, you need to think about your vehicle’s ignition system type. Are you replacing a single coil-on-plug (COP) unit, or do you have a distributor system that uses an external coil? AEM makes both styles. For modern cars, the 30-2853B coil-on-plug series is often the go-to, designed to bolt directly into many popular Japanese engines from Honda, Toyota, and others. If you have an older vehicle with a distributor, you will be looking at a traditional can-style coil, like the AEM 11-101C. Getting this part wrong means the coil simply will not fit, so double-check your application before you buy.
Next, consider the actual performance specs. The term “high output” gets thrown around a lot, but what does it mean? For me, it comes down to two things: peak voltage and spark energy. A higher peak voltage means the coil can jump the gap at the spark plug under extreme cylinder pressure, which is critical for preventing misfires under boost. Higher spark energy translates to a fatter, more robust spark that can reliably ignite leaner or richer air/fuel mixtures. AEM coils typically produce significantly higher output than most stock units, which is why they are a key part of any 9 best AEM high output coil review for consistent performance.
Compatibility is another huge factor. While many AEM coils are direct bolt-ons, sometimes you need additional components. For instance, switching to a high-output coil on an older distributor-based car might require you to also upgrade your ignition wires to a thicker, low-resistance type to handle the increased energy. On newer COP systems, you often need to ensure the electrical connector is the same. I always look up vehicle-specific forums or installation guides to see if there are any known issues or required extras.
Finally, think about your long-term plans. If you are planning to increase engine power later with a turbocharger or nitrous system, it makes sense to invest in a high-performance coil now. A quality AEM coil provides headroom for future modifications, ensuring your ignition system is not the weak link when you turn up the boost. A failing or weak ignition coil can cause all sorts of drivability issues, from rough idles to a noticeable lack of power. Investing in a proven product from a brand like AEM saves you from troubleshooting headaches down the road and gives you the peace of mind that your spark is the least of your worries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will an AEM high output coil improve my gas mileage?
This is a common hope, but the reality is a bit more nuanced. A new coil, especially if it is replacing a worn-out stock unit, can restore lost efficiency and potentially improve mileage slightly by ensuring a more complete combustion cycle. However, a high-output coil by itself is not a fuel economy mod. Its primary job is to provide a stronger, more reliable spark under demanding conditions. If your old coil was fine, you likely will not see any measurable change in MPG. The benefit is in performance and reliability, not necessarily savings at the pump.
Can I install an AEM coil myself, or do I need a professional?
For most mechanically inclined people, installing a coil is a very straightforward job. If you have a coil-on-plug system, it is often as simple as unplugging the electrical connector, removing a single bolt, pulling out the old coil, and reversing the process with the new one. For distributor-style systems, it is just a matter of disconnecting the spark plug wires and the primary wiring connector. The key is to work on one cylinder at a time to avoid mixing up the wires. If you are comfortable with basic hand tools and following a simple guide, you can absolutely do this yourself in your garage.
Do I need to upgrade my spark plugs when I install a new high-output coil?
It is a very good idea, and I would strongly recommend it. Think of the coil and spark plugs as a team. Putting a high-performance coil on worn-out or incorrect spark plugs is like putting racing tires on a car with a bad suspension—you are not getting the full benefit. When you install a new AEM coil, fitting a fresh set of spark plugs, often one step colder if you are running more power, ensures the entire ignition system is working in harmony. This setup provides the most reliable performance and prevents potential issues down the line.
My car is completely stock. Is there any benefit to upgrading the ignition coil?
For a perfectly running stock vehicle, the benefit is less dramatic, but it can still be worthwhile. A high-output coil can provide a more consistent spark across the entire RPM range, which can translate to slightly smoother operation, especially as the engine ages. The main advantage for a stock car is increased reliability and building a foundation for any future modifications. If your original coil is old and showing signs of weakness, replacing it with a robust AEM unit is a great way to ensure you do not get stranded.
How do I know if my current ignition coil is failing?
There are several classic symptoms I have encountered. The most common is a persistent misfire, especially under load like when you are accelerating uphill. This often triggers a check engine light with codes related to misfires in specific cylinders. You might also experience rough idling, a noticeable loss of power and acceleration, harder starting, and even a decrease in fuel economy. In severe cases, the car may backfire or simply refuse to start. If you are seeing any of these signs, testing or replacing your coils, perhaps with one from a 9 best AEM high output coil review for consistent performance, is a logical next step.