The ignition control module is responsible for controlling the spark plug timing and firing the spark plugs. If your vehicle has an ignition control module, it is located near the coil pack or distributor. To bypass the ignition control module, you will need to disconnect the wiring harness that connects it to the coil pack or distributor.
Once the wiring harness is disconnected, you can test the spark plugs by grounding them to a metal surface and cranking the engine over. If they are sparking, then the ignition control module is not needed and can be removed.
- The ignition control module is located on the firewall, just to the right of the steering column
- Use a screwdriver to remove the two screws that hold the module in place
- Carefully disconnect the wiring harness from the back of the ignition control module
- Install the new ignition control module in the same location and reconnect the wiring harness
- Replace the two screws and tighten them securely
GM Bypass Ignition System part 1
How to Test an Ignition Control Module
An ignition control module is a small electronic device that is used to control the ignition system in a vehicle. This module is typically located near the ignition coil or the spark plugs. The ignition control module will often have two wires attached to it, one for the positive voltage and one for the negative voltage.
In order to test an ignition control module, you will need a multimeter and an helper. First, locate the ignition control module on your vehicle. Once you have found it, disconnect the negative battery cable.
Next, use the multimeter to test for continuity between the two wires attached to the ignition control module. If there is no continuity, then the ignition control module is defective and needs to be replaced.

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Can You Bypass the Ignition to Start the Car?
If your car has an electronic ignition, the answer is generally no. You can bypass the ignition switch to start the engine, but doing so will usually disable other electrical systems in the car, rendering it inoperable. If your car has a mechanical ignition, it may be possible to bypass the ignition switch, but this is generally not advisable as it can damage the starter or other components.
What Happens When the Ignition Control Module Fails?
If your car’s ignition control module (ICM) fails, it won’t start. The ICM is responsible for supplying the spark that ignites the air/fuel mixture in the engine’s cylinders. When it fails, there is no spark and the engine won’t start.
The ICM is usually located on or near the engine’s firewall, mounted to the side of the distributor. It may also be located under the dash or in the engine compartment. If you’re not sure where it is, consult your car’s repair manual.
Symptoms of a failing ICM include a hard-to-start engine or one that stalls frequently. The check engine light may also come on if there’s a problem with the ICM.
If your ICM fails, it will need to be replaced with a new one.
This is generally not a do-it-yourself job and will require professional help. In most cases, you’ll need to take your car to a mechanic or dealership for diagnosis and repair.
What is the Ignition Bypass Wire?
The ignition bypass wire is a wire that connects the starter solenoid to the starter motor. This wire bypasses the ignition switch so that the starter can be operated without the key being turned on. This is useful in situations where the key has been lost or stolen, and it allows the vehicle to be started without having to replace the ignition switch.
How Can I Test My Ignition Module?
If your car is having trouble starting, it may be time to test your ignition module. Here’s how you can do it yourself:
1. Check for power.
The first thing you’ll need to do is make sure that there is power going to the ignition module. You can do this by testing the voltage at the module’s connector with a multimeter.
2. Test the ground connection.
Next, check that the ground connection is good. To do this, disconnect the negative battery cable and test for continuity between the connector and a good ground point on the engine block.
3. Test the trigger signal.
Finally, you’ll need to test the trigger signal from the ignition switch or coil to see if it’s strong enough to activate the module. This can be done with a oscilloscope or logic probe while someone cranks the engine over.
Conclusion
If your car’s ignition control module (ICM) fails, you’ll need to replace it. The ICM controls the ignition coil, which in turn ignites the spark plugs. A failing ICM can cause engine misfires, stalling, and poor fuel economy.
To bypass the ICM, you’ll need to connect the ignition coil directly to the battery. This will bypass the ICM entirely, but it’s not a permanent solution. You’ll need to replace the ICM as soon as possible.