My car only likes OEM coil packs?! Aftermarket ones keep causing misfires.

**MattPethel** · 01-19-2016 08:16 AM

Hey guys,

About 2 months ago, I had a coil pack go out, so I went ahead and replaced all 4 of them with some non-OEM coils purchased from O'Reilly Autoparts. They were only $26 each, so it seemed like a good deal. Two weeks ago, my car started misfiring with the dreaded "blinking" CEL, and because I had JUST replaced my coil packs, I didn't think it was that, so I replaced my spark plugs and the issue persisted.

I got my car towed to my local mechanic, and they confirmed that one of the coil packs had corrosion inside of it, and replaced it for me. I paid them $280 (price included towing and diagnostic, plus parts/labor). Less than a week later, the SAME coil pack that they supposedly replaced went out again. Once again, I had to pay to get the car towed back to the mechanic so they could warranty out the bad coil pack.

They ended up swapping out all my coil packs for the OEM ones, which are not only 1" shorter in length, but also nearly completely coated in rubber. He basically said that being an Audi, they tend to be picky with certain aftermarket parts, in this case, the coil packs. Is this true? My car is driving like a dream now, but I am concerned that I may have some sort of underlying issue that may be causing me to keep going through coil packs.

Thanks in advance for any insight.

**93efini** · 01-19-2016 08:30 AM

I think your just going to have to wait and see unfortunately but from what I have read here on the forums even the OEM coilpacks have issues here and there even with the revised version. My number 4 coilpack went out Friday night and I knew right away OEM was the only choice I would make based off of what Ive read on the forum.

**Hugh@EuropaParts** · 01-19-2016 08:44 AM

Do not buy aftermarket coils packs!

**ADCS** · 01-19-2016 09:30 AM

Your aftermarket coils cost most than oem from the dealership. I would not use those after market garbage coils.

**Charles.waite** · 01-19-2016 09:32 AM

Jesus. $280 for replace four $20 coil packs that literally takes 5 minutes? Mechanics run such a racket...

Also, only buy OEM coil packs. I know a guy, a stancebro really, whose name is similar to Jimmy who bought his coil packs at AutoZone or something because they had an unlimited warranty. He must have brought them back, no joke, 6 separate times to be replaced. And the worst part is you can't drive your car when your coils are dead. So he was essentially stranded. Yet still insisted it was a good deal because he got them replaced a bunch for free. "6 sets of coil packs would have cost a billion dollars" he said.

Except it's a false economy because the single set of OEM coils with no warranty would have only cost $80 and would have lasted years and years without failure. Sometimes people get suckered into buying a product because they equate having a warranty with reliability. The warranty is marketing and you fell for it. The reliability comes from buy OEM coils.

I've run a set of OEM b7 coils in my b6 for 4 years straight before I sold it with zero issues. I also have run a set of OEM coils in my b7 for 3 years straight with zero issues.

**B72011** · 01-19-2016 09:32 AM

Red ones from Genuine Audi PArts---picked em up for $14 each. That was a ahwile ago. Bought an extra--its in the trunk ......waiting..........

**Fdny5772** · 01-19-2016 11:06 AM

Originally Posted by Charles.waite

Jesus. $280 for replace four $20 coil packs that literally takes 5 minutes? Mechanics run such a racket...

Also, only buy OEM coil packs. I know a guy, a stancebro really, whose name is similar to Jimmy who bought his coil packs at AutoZone or something because they had an unlimited warranty. He must have brought them back, no joke, 6 separate times to be replaced. And the worst part is you can't drive your car when your coils are dead. So he was essentially stranded. Yet still insisted it was a good deal because he got them replaced a bunch for free. "6 sets of coil packs would have cost a billion dollars" he said.

Except it's a false economy because the single set of OEM coils with no warranty would have only cost $80 and would have lasted years and years without failure. Sometimes people get suckered into buying a product because they equate having a warranty with reliability. The warranty is marketing and you fell for it. The reliability comes from buy OEM coils.

I've run a set of OEM b7 coils in my b6 for 4 years straight before I sold it with zero issues. I also have run a set of OEM coils in my b7 for 3 years straight with zero issues.

I had to buy a coil from autozone once... Was stuck and had no other choice. But got the red packs from Hugh (europarts) now for awhile.

**o1turbo30v** · 01-19-2016 02:38 PM

Originally Posted by Hugh@EuropaParts

Do not buy aftermarket coils packs!

+1^ seems pretty self explanatory, and since OE ones are what $8 more, why wouldn't you buy OE?!

**MattPethel** · 01-19-2016 02:41 PM

Well when you're broken down on the side of the road, but in walking distance of an O'Reilly, gotta get up and running ASAP! ;)

**Charles.waite** · 01-19-2016 06:14 PM

Originally Posted by MattPethel

Well when you're broken down on the side of the road, but in walking distance of an O'Reilly, gotta get up and running ASAP! ;)

Indeed. In a pinch you gotta do what you gotta do.

**aluthman** · 01-19-2016 07:48 PM

I've been running the red top oem coils since April of 2013 and have had zero issues with them over 57k miles. The first 10k I was APR stage 1 and the last 48k I had a built motor with my K0R and Maestro tuning by myself. I think running good plugs and an appropriate gap plays a big part in how well your coils hold up. I'm running NGK BKR8EIX plugs with a 0.028" gap.

**80sGuy** · 01-20-2016 03:38 AM

Again, OEM Audi or dud!

**Sanjman** · 01-20-2016 05:29 AM

The giveaway is that the coilpacks were shorter than the OEM. Can't imagine that being good

**JPT** · 01-20-2016 06:03 AM

I got the red set when they were $14 a pop too. I took one of my working factory packs put in a box with the T-screwdriver needed, and tucked it into the compartment with my XM unit in the trunk.

This way I have a factory grade spare on the road AND have the tool to swap it...

**MattPethel** · 01-20-2016 06:16 AM

Here's a pic the mechanic gave me.

uploadfromtaptalk1453295749071.jpeg

The one on the left is aftermarket. The one on the right is OEM.

**Okedokey** · 01-20-2016 07:30 AM

Theyre both OEM, the one on the right is a B revision (06H905115B) and the one on the left an F revision (07K905715F).

**mtroxel** · 01-20-2016 07:33 AM

^^^Good picture^^^

**MattPethel** · 01-20-2016 08:15 AM

Originally Posted by Okedokey

Theyre both OEM, the one on the right is a B revision (06H905115B) and the one on the left an F revision (07K905715F).

The one on the left is the aftermarket one I bought from O'Reilly.

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**MattPethel** · 01-20-2016 08:16 AM

My question is why there would be a length difference, and what sort of issues can come from using a longer pack?

My mechanic claims that the extra length was causing it to "arc against the cylinder head". Sounds like b.s. jargon to me, but I'm not a mechanic by any means.

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**Charles.waite** · 01-20-2016 08:38 AM

Originally Posted by MattPethel

My question is why there would be a length difference, and what sort of issues can come from using a longer pack?

My mechanic claims that the extra length was causing it to "arc against the cylinder head". Sounds like b.s. jargon to me, but I'm not a mechanic by any means.

Sent from my LG-D851 using Tapatalk

There shouldn't be extra length. If there is it's the wrong coil pack for your car. The b6 coils are about 3/4" shorter than the b7 ones.

Also your mechanic doesn't know what he's talking about. I've always used metal bodied coils and never had any issues whatsoever. If it's arcing against the head then you've got much more major issues...

I currently run those 07K coils in my b7 and had them in my b6 for 3 years with absolutely zero issues.

Now it's possible that aftermarket one really is too long, in which case it's junk and you should ditch it asap. If it's a real 07k coil then it should be the proper length and I'll seat snugly in the valve cover detents.

**waiapasi2006** · 01-20-2016 09:48 AM

Originally Posted by B72011

Red ones from Genuine Audi PArts---picked em up for $14 each. That was a ahwile ago. Bought an extra--its in the trunk ......waiting..........

Yup, got me six when that deal went on.

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**Sanjman** · 01-23-2016 12:17 PM

Originally Posted by MattPethel

My question is why there would be a length difference, and what sort of issues can come from using a longer pack?

My mechanic claims that the extra length was causing it to "arc against the cylinder head". Sounds like b.s. jargon to me, but I'm not a mechanic by any means.

Sent from my LG-D851 using Tapatalk

Give us the aftermarket part number. Maybe the number is off by a digit or letter. Should be on the box if you still have it.

**MattPethel** · 01-23-2016 12:30 PM

Originally Posted by Sanjman

Give us the aftermarket part number. Maybe the number is off by a digit or letter. Should be on the box if you still have it.

From O'Reilly: "Import Direct" - IDI 23-0157

From AutoZone: "Duralast" - C1627

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**bfunk1414** · 01-23-2016 02:01 PM

Talk about timing. I almost bought the coil pack from autozone today since I didn't want to wait till Monday to buy the OEM at the dealership. Wanted to take my baby snow drifting but I guess good thing they weren't in Stock

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**DavidAAG** · 02-29-2016 11:46 AM

Originally Posted by aluthman

I've been running the red top oem coils since April of 2013 and have had zero issues with them over 57k miles. The first 10k I was APR stage 1 and the last 48k I had a built motor with my K0R and Maestro tuning by myself. I think running good plugs and an appropriate gap plays a big part in how well your coils hold up. I'm running NGK BKR8EIX plugs with a 0.028" gap.

Where did you buy your plugs and coils from. I'm looking to get some.

**Charles.waite** · 02-29-2016 12:25 PM

^^ I got mine on Amazon from a VW dealer new for $18/ea

**aluthman** · 02-29-2016 01:32 PM

Originally Posted by DavidAAG

Where did you buy your plugs and coils from. I'm looking to get some.

I bought mine from Europaparts, but lots of places sell them for reasonable prices.

**DavidAAG** · 02-29-2016 01:37 PM

Thanks Aluthman.

**Theiceman** · 03-02-2016 01:41 PM

i am getting somewhat confused with all the terms ..

is the following not true ?

OE= Original equipment , usually bought from a dealer with Vendor stamp. ( 4 rings or VAG stamping )
OEM = Original equipment manufacturer, Bosch for example, but not necessarily to OE standards and will NOT carry Vendor stamp.
Aftermarket = Built by alternate vendor to " fit" as original , bot necessarily to any standard.

So when you guys say from Audi I think you mean OE part no ?

**Charles.waite** · 03-02-2016 01:50 PM

The terms OE and OEM tend to be misused. Not sure why. Actually I think I misuse them too...

**80sGuy** · 03-02-2016 02:13 PM

Originally Posted by Theiceman

i am getting somewhat confused with all the terms ..

is the following not true ?

OE= Original equipment , usually bought from a dealer with Vendor stamp. ( 4 rings or VAG stamping )
OEM = Original equipment manufacturer, Bosch for example, but not necessarily to OE standards and will NOT carry Vendor stamp.
Aftermarket = Built by alternate vendor to " fit" as original , bot necessarily to any standard.

So when you guys say from Audi I think you mean OE part no ?

'Genuine' is the keyword - Genuine Audi, Genuine BMW, Genuine Toyota, Genuine Volvo, etc...

**Theiceman** · 03-03-2016 07:50 AM

Originally Posted by 80sGuy

'Genuine' is the keyword - Genuine Audi, Genuine BMW, Genuine Toyota, Genuine Volvo, etc...

actually be very careful there.
I actually know of a company called " genuine parts" . It is perfectly legal , you can get tripped up when you see genuine parts in the add and they are in fact after market parts form the "genuine parts" company , be carful of that one.

**80sGuy** · 03-03-2016 08:11 AM

Originally Posted by Theiceman

actually be very careful there.
I actually know of a company called " genuine parts" . It is perfectly legal , you can get tripped up when you see genuine parts in the add and they are in fact after market parts form the "genuine parts" company , be carful of that one.

They should be stamped with the appropriate brand/logo. If this 'genuine parts' company you speak of falls under all this then it is counterfeit. Genuine Audi parts should have VW/Audi stamped on them. Easiest way to be sure is to buy them from your local dealer, or online dealer such as https://audihendersonparts.com/ which I've yet to see anyone beat their prices & service.

**Theiceman** · 03-03-2016 08:27 AM

Originally Posted by 80sGuy

They should be stamped with the appropriate brand/logo. If this 'genuine parts' company you speak of falls under all this then it is counterfeit. Genuine Audi parts should have VW/Audi stamped on them. Easiest way to be sure is to buy them from your local dealer, or online dealer such as https://audihendersonparts.com/ which I've yet to see anyone beat their prices & service.

Not to get too off topic here ( and I apologize to OP for doing so ) but it is in fact not counterfeit. If you buy an aftermarket part from a company called " genuine parts" they are within all legal bounds. They never state anything about the origin of the parts. That is just the company name. If this website did not make it so difficult to upload pics I could show you a few screen shots of vendors I am talking about.

oh I just did a copy and paste , not very pretty but you will see what I am talking about ... want to buy an original equipment crankcase valve ? look no further ... but wait ... read the whole thing.

Part Number: OEA1977767 Manufacturer: Original Equipment

Engine Crankcase Vent Valve
brand

stars

Sale Price:

$30.09

List Price:

$65.95

Save:

$35.86 (54 %)

Qty:

In Stock

Leaves Warehouse Today

FULL WARRANTY

Share:
0

cart-btn cart-btn

FREE SHIPPING on order over $100

shipped from same warehouse

Product Details

Warehouse:

A

Product Notes:

Gasket Serviced Separately - Pressure Regulating Valve

Brand Description:

Original Equipment is a brand of parts collected from suppliers all over world selling their OE and OE quality parts in effort to save money on quality parts.
Weight:

0.35 lb.

Package Size:

3.50 x 2.00 x 7.50 inches

Interchange:

W0133-1977767, W0133-1977767-OEA, W0133-1977767OEA, OEA W0133-1977767

Fitment Note:

To:12-16-05

Production: -12/16/2005, Replacement of Hose with Check Valve is recommended

Even though you may feel you are buying an OE part you are not going to find an Audi stamp anywhere on it. Point is buyer beware and read the fine print on parts.

**Hugh@EuropaParts** · 03-03-2016 08:28 AM

Eldor makes the coil packs for our cars... we carry both the Genuine OEM (purchased directly from the dealer) and OEM (original equipment manufacturer - eldor)

**Theiceman** · 03-03-2016 08:36 AM

Originally Posted by Hugh@EuropaParts

Eldor makes the coil packs for our cars... we carry both the Genuine OEM (purchased directly from the dealer) and OEM (original equipment manufacturer - eldor)

High Hugh , thanks for chipping in , isn't this confusing for the consumer ? wouldn't you be better served calling the part purchased directly from the dealer OE ? personally this is what would get my attention . I would expect to pay more obviously but would make it great.

Lets face it you can get away with and OEM or even aftermarket / alternate vendor for some things , but there are others I would want an Audi part for and is worth paying the extra for in my mind as they tend to have a critical nature.
coil, thermostat, cam follower, water pump , just to name a few I would personally want OE for.
Would be great to combine these in one order , that's why I find it preferable to deal with vendors that can combine both in one order like yourselves .

**jamezz23** · 03-03-2016 08:44 AM

I've bought after market and oem and they are exactly the same, they all suck and will go out. There is virtually no difference between from my expirence

**Charles.waite** · 03-03-2016 09:02 AM

Originally Posted by jamezz23

I've bought after market and oem and they are exactly the same, they all suck and will go out. There is virtually no difference between from my expirence

I've only bought Audi branded could and never had issues.

**Hugh@EuropaParts** · 03-03-2016 09:30 AM

The Genuine OEM coils that are purchased at the dealer and found on your car are made by eldor... we offer the eldor unit as well... it is literally the same exact part just not stamped with the AUDI / VW logo. The eldor units are marked as OEM (original equipment manufacturer). Anything that is AFTERMARKET will not be an eldor unit.

TL;DR You end up paying $4.00 more per coil because it has a Audi / VW logo on it.

**Charles.waite** · 03-03-2016 09:44 AM

My philosophy: coil packs are cheap, but also pretty damn critical to the proper working of the car. Get legit ones, don't mess around. Especially when you're only saving a few bucks when you buy off brand or aftermarket ones. A tow truck more than makes up the difference when you get stranded.

Just like spark plugs, cheap out at your own peril.