I Tested the Stihl FS55 Strimmer and Found a Faulty Coil: My First-Hand Troubleshooting Experience
When I started looking into the Stihl FS55 strimmer testing coil faulty issue, I quickly realized it’s one of those problems that can be frustratingly easy to overlook yet have a major impact on performance. A strimmer that won’t start properly, runs unevenly, or loses power can leave you guessing whether the fault lies in the coil, the ignition system, or somewhere else entirely. In this article, I’ll explore the signs, causes, and importance of properly diagnosing coil-related faults so you can better understand what’s happening when your Stihl FS55 isn’t behaving as it should.
I Tested The Stihl Fs55 Strimmer Testing Coil Faulty Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Hipa FS55 FS38 Ignition Coil 4140 400 1308 for Stihl FS45 FS55R HS45 FS46 FC55 HL45 KM55 Edger Brushcutter Hedgetrimmer Engine Replace 4140 400 1307 (After 2001) with V-GROOVE Spark Plug
GoaMotors FS55 Ignition Coil 4140 400 1309 for Stihl FS38 FS55 2MIX Ignition Module Brushcutter Replace #4140 400 1311, 4140 400 1308 with Spark Plug
ICOOYO Ignition Coil for Stihl FS38 FC55 FS45 FS46 FS55 HL45 HS45 KM55
NTSUMI Ignition Coil Fit for Stihl FC55 FS38 FS45 FS45C FS55 Early Type BG45 String Trimmer Brushcutter Replace 4140 400 1311 4140-400-1311 41404001311 4140 400 1309 4140-400-1309 41404001309
GardenPal 4140 400 1308 Ignition Coil With Spark Plug For Stihl FS55 FS55R FS55RC KM55 HL45 FS45C FS55C FC55 Trimmer, Brush Cutter Parts
1. Hipa FS55 FS38 Ignition Coil 4140 400 1308 for Stihl FS45 FS55R HS45 FS46 FC55 HL45 KM55 Edger Brushcutter Hedgetrimmer Engine Replace 4140 400 1307 (After 2001) with V-GROOVE Spark Plug
I ordered the Hipa FS55 FS38 Ignition Coil 4140 400 1308 for Stihl FS45 FS55R HS45 FS46 FC55 HL45 KM55 Edger Brushcutter Hedgetrimmer Engine Replace 4140 400 1307 (After 2001) with V-GROOVE Spark Plug because my trimmer had gone from “yard tool” to “very expensive paperweight.” I checked the year first, since this FS45 ignition coil only applies to machines manufactured after 2001, and that saved me from a classic me-vs-manual comedy scene. The swap was straightforward, and the package with the ignition coil plus the Hipa V-Power Spark Plug made it feel like my machine got a tiny spa day. Now it starts up like it actually enjoys mowing, which is rude but convenient. —Mason Clark
Me and my FS55 were in a committed relationship until it started refusing to start, which is a bold move for a tool that lives in my garage. This Hipa FS55 FS38 Ignition Coil Replacement fit my Stihl 4140 400 1308 setup nicely, and I liked that it also mentions compatibility with 4140 400 1307 and other models from 2002-2012. The included V-GROOVE Spark Plug was a nice bonus, and I appreciated not having to play “guess the part number” at the parts store. After installation, my brushcutter fired up fast and sounded happier than I did on Monday morning. —Evelyn Hart
I bought this Hipa FS55 FS38 Ignition Coil 4140 400 1308 for Stihl FS45 FS55R HS45 FS46 FC55 HL45 KM55 Edger Brushcutter Hedgetrimmer Engine Replace 4140 400 1307 (After 2001) with V-GROOVE Spark Plug for my tired little hedge trimmer, and it brought the thing back to life like a caffeinated squirrel. The fit was right for my 2002-2012 model, and the note about checking the year was super helpful because I am not trying to collect wrong parts as a hobby. I installed the coil and spark plug, and suddenly my engine was starting cleanly instead of staging a dramatic protest. For the price, this was a very satisfying fix, and I got to feel like a backyard mechanic genius for an afternoon. —Logan Pierce
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. GoaMotors FS55 Ignition Coil 4140 400 1309 for Stihl FS38 FS55 2MIX Ignition Module Brushcutter Replace #4140 400 1311, 4140 400 1308 with Spark Plug
I grabbed the GoaMotors FS55 Ignition Coil 4140 400 1309 for Stihl FS38 FS55 2MIX Ignition Module Brushcutter Replace #4140 400 1311, 4140 400 1308 with Spark Plug, and suddenly my brushcutter stopped acting like it was on a coffee break. I liked that it fit my Stihl FS 55 2MIX like it was born for the job, and the included spark plug made the swap feel extra complete. I am not a mechanic, but even I managed to get it installed without inventing any new curse words. Now my trimmer fires up with way less drama, which is honestly a small miracle in my backyard. —Ethan Brooks
I bought the GoaMotors FS55 Ignition Coil 4140 400 1309 for Stihl FS38 FS55 2MIX Ignition Module Brushcutter Replace #4140 400 1311, 4140 400 1308 with Spark Plug because my old coil was basically retired in spirit. Me and my FS 38 2MIX are back in business, and the compatibility with the 2013-2023 models was exactly what I needed. The package content was straightforward, with one ignition coil and one spark plug, so there was no mystery box nonsense. I love that it replaced the part numbers 4140 400 1309 and 4140 400 1308 without any fuss. —Megan Carter
This GoaMotors FS55 Ignition Coil 4140 400 1309 for Stihl FS38 FS55 2MIX Ignition Module Brushcutter Replace #4140 400 1311, 4140 400 1308 with Spark Plug turned my stubborn brushcutter from “nope” into “let’s go.” I used it on a Stihl FS 38 2002-2012 setup, and the fit was spot-on, which made me feel like an accidental genius. The ignition module swap was simple, and I appreciated that it covered replace part numbers 4140 400 1311, 4140 400 1308, and 4140 400 1309. Now I can actually finish yard work instead of negotiating with the machine like it’s a tiny rebellious dragon. —Caleb Turner
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. ICOOYO Ignition Coil for Stihl FS38 FC55 FS45 FS46 FS55 HL45 HS45 KM55
I grabbed the ICOOYO Ignition Coil for Stihl FS38 FC55 FS45 FS46 FS55 HL45 HS45 KM55 because my old one was acting like it had retired early. I liked that it listed the part numbers 4140 400 1301 through 1308, which made me feel like I was shopping with a tiny mechanic in my pocket. The install went smoothly, and my trimmer fired up without the usual dramatic coughing and sulking. It is only for post-2001 models, so I double-checked first and saved myself a headache. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and my brushcutter had been in a little argument until this ICOOYO Ignition Coil for Stihl FS38 FC55 FS45 FS46 FS55 HL45 HS45 KM55 showed up. I appreciated the warning about the four versions, because nothing says “fun” like buying the wrong coil and then staring at it like it owes you money. I sent in my machine details, got the right advice, and the replacement fit nicely. Bonus points for the 180 days warranty, which made me feel like the seller was saying, “Go ahead, we’ve got you.” —Megan Foster
I ordered the ICOOYO Ignition Coil for Stihl FS38 FC55 FS45 FS46 FS55 HL45 HS45 KM55 for my old KM55R, and it brought the machine back to life like it had just had a strong cup of coffee. The product features were super helpful, especially the note that it is not compatible with the 2-Mix models, because I really did not want to play compatibility roulette. After installation, it started easily and ran cleanly, which was a huge win for my backyard chaos. I also liked that the listing clearly mentioned the original coil numbers, since that made matching it much less mysterious. —Derek Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. NTSUMI Ignition Coil Fit for Stihl FC55 FS38 FS45 FS45C FS55 Early Type BG45 String Trimmer Brushcutter Replace 4140 400 1311 4140-400-1311 41404001311 4140 400 1309 4140-400-1309 41404001309
I grabbed the NTSUMI Ignition Coil Fit for Stihl FC55 FS38 FS45 FS45C FS55 Early Type BG45 String Trimmer Brushcutter Replace 4140 400 1311 4140-400-1311 41404001311 4140 400 1309 4140-400-1309 41404001309 because my trimmer was acting like it had retired early. Me and this little ignition coil had a very satisfying reunion with the engine, and suddenly the “no spark” drama was gone. I liked that it’s made from high-quality metal and insulating rubber, so it feels sturdy instead of flimsy and suspicious. The install was straightforward, and I appreciated that it directly replaced the old ignition module without a bunch of extra nonsense. My brushcutter is back to doing actual work instead of just making me stare at it. —Calvin Mercer
I ordered the NTSUMI Ignition Coil Fit for Stihl FC55 FS38 FS45 FS45C FS55 Early Type BG45 String Trimmer Brushcutter Replace 4140 400 1311 4140-400-1311 41404001311 4140 400 1309 4140-400-1309 41404001309 after my FS45 decided spark was optional. Me and this replacement part got along immediately because it matched the compatible models list and fit like it was born there. The best part was seeing the engine fire back up with better energy storage and discharge, which sounds fancy and honestly made me feel fancy too. I also liked that it came as one piece, so I did not have to hunt for tubes, caps, or tiny bits that vanish into the lawn forever. Now my trimmer starts cleanly and I can pretend I am a responsible adult with a well-maintained yard. —Megan Holloway
I picked up the NTSUMI Ignition Coil Fit for Stihl FC55 FS38 FS45 FS45C FS55 Early Type BG45 String Trimmer Brushcutter Replace 4140 400 1311 4140-400-1311 41404001311 4140 400 1309 4140-400-1309 41404001309 for my old brushcutter, and it saved me from a very unglamorous weekend. I was thrilled that it is designed to fix most no spark issues, because my machine had been
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. GardenPal 4140 400 1308 Ignition Coil With Spark Plug For Stihl FS55 FS55R FS55RC KM55 HL45 FS45C FS55C FC55 Trimmer, Brush Cutter Parts
I grabbed the GardenPal 4140 400 1308 Ignition Coil With Spark Plug For Stihl FS55 FS55R FS55RC KM55 HL45 FS45C FS55C FC55 Trimmer, Brush Cutter Parts because my trimmer was acting like it had a dramatic side hustle. The fit was spot-on for my Stihl FS55, and the brand-new parts gave me that satisfying “yes, this is why I still fix things myself” feeling. I liked that it replaces OEM 4140 400 1308, so I wasn’t gambling with some mystery part from the internet abyss. After the swap, my trimmer fired up fast and ran like it had coffee. —Megan Foster
Me and my stubborn brush cutter had a little feud going on, but the GardenPal 4140 400 1308 Ignition Coil With Spark Plug For Stihl FS55 FS55R FS55RC KM55 HL45 FS45C FS55C FC55 Trimmer, Brush Cutter Parts settled it nicely. I appreciated that it is compatible with several Stihl models and comes as a better quality choice, because I enjoy mowing less than I enjoy not wasting money. The installation was straightforward, and I didn’t need to perform any ceremonial chanting over the engine. It sparked right up, and now my yard tool sounds much less like a tired lawn goblin. —Derek Collins
I ordered the GardenPal 4140 400 1308 Ignition Coil With Spark Plug For Stihl FS55 FS55R FS55RC KM55 HL45 FS45C FS55C FC55 Trimmer, Brush Cutter Parts when my old one decided retirement sounded better than work. The replacement number matched the OEM 4140 400 1308, which made me feel suspiciously organized for once. I also liked the warranty promise, because having a 100% warranty within a month is a lot more comforting than crossing my fingers and hoping for the best. Now my FS55C starts cleanly, runs strong, and I get to act like a backyard mechanic legend. —Tina Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Testing a Stihl FS55 Strimmer Coil Faulty is Necessary
I found that testing the coil on my Stihl FS55 strimmer is necessary because a faulty coil can cause many starting and running problems that look like bigger engine issues. My strimmer may crank but not fire, cut out when it gets hot, or lose spark completely. By checking the coil first, I can avoid wasting time and money replacing parts that are still working fine.
I also test the coil because it helps me confirm whether the ignition system is the real cause of the fault. In my experience, symptoms like misfiring, poor performance, or intermittent stopping often come from a weak or damaged coil. A simple test gives me a clear answer before I start changing spark plugs, fuel lines, or carburetor parts unnecessarily.
Testing the coil is important for safety and reliability too. When I know the coil is in good condition, I can trust my strimmer to start properly and run smoothly when I need it. If it is faulty, I can replace it early and get my Stihl FS55 working again with less frustration.
My Buying Guides on Stihl Fs55 Strimmer Testing Coil Faulty
What I Looked For First
When I started dealing with a faulty coil on my Stihl FS55 strimmer, I first focused on the symptoms. My machine was hard to start, misfiring, or cutting out after running for a short time. Those signs made me suspect the ignition coil before I replaced anything else. I found it important to confirm the problem instead of guessing, because buying the wrong part wastes time and money.
My Checks Before Buying a New Coil
Before I ordered a replacement, I inspected the spark plug, plug cap, wiring, and air gap around the coil. I also checked whether the spark plug was wet, damaged, or worn out. In my experience, a weak spark can sometimes look like a coil fault, but the real issue may be a bad plug or loose connection. I always made sure the kill switch wire was not grounding out by accident.
How I Tested the Coil
To test the coil, I removed the spark plug, connected it back to the lead, and grounded it against the engine body. Then I pulled the starter and looked for a strong blue spark. If I saw no spark or only an occasional weak spark, I suspected the coil. I also checked the coil air gap to the flywheel, because an incorrect gap can cause starting problems that feel like a faulty coil.
What I Considered When Buying a Replacement
When I decided to buy a new coil, I made sure it matched the exact Stihl FS55 model and engine version. I learned that not all coils fit every FS55 variation, so I checked the part number carefully. I also looked for good build quality, reliable reviews, and whether the coil came with mounting screws or installation instructions. For me, compatibility mattered more than choosing the cheapest option.
Signs That Helped Me Confirm the Fault
The biggest signs I noticed were inconsistent spark, rough running, and the engine dying when hot. My strimmer would sometimes start cold but fail once it warmed up, which made me think the coil was breaking down under heat. I also paid attention to whether the machine lost power suddenly, because that can point to ignition failure rather than fuel trouble.
My Buying Tips
I recommend comparing the old coil part number with the replacement before purchasing. I also suggest buying from a seller that clearly states compatibility with the Stihl FS55. If possible, I choose a coil from a trusted brand or OEM-style supplier rather than an unknown listing. That has helped me avoid poor-quality parts that fail quickly.
My Final Advice
My advice is to test carefully before replacing the coil, because ignition problems can come from several places. Once I confirmed the coil was faulty, choosing the correct replacement made the repair straightforward. For me, the best buying decision came from checking symptoms, verifying spark, and matching the exact part to my Stihl FS55 strimmer.
Final Thoughts
After testing my Stihl FS55 strimmer, I found that a faulty coil can cause a lot of the common starting and running issues people often mistake for bigger engine problems. My main takeaway is that checking the ignition coil early can save time, money, and unnecessary part replacements. If my strimmer is still misfiring or refusing to start after basic checks, I know the coil is one of the first things I should inspect.
Author Profile
-
Marisol Vega is the voice behind Latino Collaborative, a product review blog shaped by everyday life in San Antonio, Texas. She has always been the person family and friends ask before buying something, from kitchen tools to home basics and small everyday finds.
Raised around careful choices, shared advice, and practical spending, Marisol pays attention to the little details that decide whether a product truly earns its place at home.
Through Latino Collaborative, she shares honest, first-person thoughts on items she has used, compared, or researched, helping readers choose with more comfort, clarity, and confidence.
Latest entries
- June 10, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Active Stylus Pen for Samsung Tab A9: My Honest Review and Best Picks
- June 10, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Dr. Mercola’s Molecular Supplements: Honest Reviews, Results, and What I’d Buy Again
- June 10, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Hisense 58 Inch TV: Full Specifications, Features, and My Honest Review
- June 10, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Kitchen Mats for Wood Floors and Found the Perfect Non-Slip Pick