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Search google.com for the following words, learn how ignition systems work, then you will understand why there are no spark plug wires...
automotive ignition system
Hint: Your system does not have a distributor nor have spark plug wires, so fewer parts in-between the coil and spark plug - in theory more reliable. Also less EMI...
What the world has come to? We can’t even agree on how many spark plugs a car has. BTW, I have been driving a 2008 Dakota with a V8 since new. Don’t tell me it hasn’t had spark plug wires all this time.
Don’t tell me it hasn’t had spark plug wires all this time.
Spark plug wires started getting phased out a while ago. I don't think there is a single vehicle sold today that uses wires. They all started going COP (coil-on-plug) ignition a while ago. Perhaps late 90's was when the transition started.
So yeah, instead of one single $50 coil, you now have 1 (or 2) per cylinder.
Downsize is cost/complexity.
Upside is that if a coil fails, you can still drive on the other ones usually.
I counted 8 coils and 8 plugs on that engine. I also counted 8 short high voltage plug wires. Actually 4 of each on this side of the engine. Presumably there are 4 more on the other bank.
I think they use this system because it allows much more accurate control over ignition timing. Single coil and distributor systems are affected by camshaft torsional vibrations.
And to the OP's post, you typically don't replace a coil pack until it goes out, unlike wires that were recommended to be replaced at intervals. Coil packs can last decades (your 2002) or years before malfunction.
If you get a misfire, you can start by swapping the coil packs and seeing if the misfire follows the pack or not. If no, check the plug. If yes, replace the coil pack.
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