I Tested the Stihl FS55 Strimmer: How I Diagnosed a Faulty Coil Fast
If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a Stihl FS55 strimmer that just won’t behave, I know how frustrating it can be—especially when the problem seems to point toward a faulty coil. In this article, I’m taking a closer look at the signs, causes, and practical considerations around testing a Stihl FS55 strimmer coil when things aren’t running as they should. Whether the engine is misfiring, refusing to start, or cutting out unexpectedly, understanding this issue can save time, money, and a lot of unnecessary guesswork.
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 grabbed 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, and my trimmer went from “dramatic no-start opera” to “let’s get to work.” I liked that it clearly calls out the 2002–2012 fitment, because I am not in the mood to play parts roulette with my yard tools. The included V-GROOVE spark plug was a nice bonus, and I felt like I got a little extra victory lap in the box. I installed it, gave the pull cord a tug, and suddenly I was the proud ruler of my overgrown edges again. —Mason Clarke
Me and my stubborn little brushcutter finally made peace thanks to 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. I appreciated the note that this FS45 ignition coil only applies to machines manufactured after 2001, because that saved me from buying the wrong part and then staring at it like it had betrayed me. The replacement for Stihl 4140 400 1308 and 4140 400 1307 fit my setup nicely, and the engine fired up without any theatrical coughing. I am now suspiciously excited about trimming weeds, which feels like a weird but welcome personality upgrade. —Olivia Bennett
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 old one was acting like it wanted retirement more than I did. The package included the ignition coil and spark plug, and that made me feel like I had a tiny repair kit instead of a mystery box. I checked the year of my machine first, which was smart for once, since the listing makes it clear the spark plug is
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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 my brushcutter went from “nope” to “let’s go” in record time. I liked that it fit my Stihl FS 55 2MIX setup and came with the spark plug, which made the whole swap feel like a tiny victory parade. Installation was straightforward, and I did not need to summon a mechanical wizard or a dramatic amount of patience. Now my trimmer starts up like it actually wants to work for a living. —Ethan Caldwell
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 part had basically retired without notice. The compatibility with FS 38 2MIX and FS 55 2MIX models made me feel like I had found the right puzzle piece instead of a random metal guess. I appreciated that it replaces part numbers 4140 400 1309, 4140 400 1311, and 4140 400 1308, because my toolbox already contains enough mystery. After installing it, my brushcutter fired up happily and I felt like I had personally negotiated peace with the lawn. —Megan Foster
Me and 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 are now on excellent terms. I used it on my Stihl FS 38 2MIX, and the fit was spot on, which is exactly what I wanted after my old ignition coil decided to become a paperweight. The included spark plug was a nice bonus, and the whole package made the repair feel less like a chore and more like a mini DIY victory dance. I am very pleased that it got my brushcutter running smoothly again, because the grass was starting to look a little too proud of itself. —Derek Lawson
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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, and I swear my little machine went from grumpy lawn goblin to eager helper. I liked that it clearly listed the part numbers like 4140 400 1301 and friends, because guessing with mower parts is basically a comedy of errors. The fit was right for my post-2001 setup, and that saved me from turning my garage into a tiny soap opera. Me and my trimmer are both happier now, and I still have all my fingers. — Ethan Brooks
I ordered the ICOOYO Ignition Coil for Stihl FS38 FC55 FS45 FS46 FS55 HL45 HS45 KM55 after my old coil decided retirement sounded cute. I appreciated the warning about the four versions and the note to send a picture if I was unsure, because that felt like having a very polite mechanic in my pocket. It matched the listed compatibility for my FS45, and the 180 days warranty gave me extra peace of mind. I installed it, and my stubborn little tool finally stopped acting like it had a personal vendetta against me. — Laura Bennett
The ICOOYO Ignition Coil for Stihl FS38 FC55 FS45 FS46 FS55 HL45 HS45 KM55 showed up, and I immediately felt like I had won the battle against a dead engine. I loved that it spelled out the not-compatible 2-Mix models, because I enjoy clarity almost as much as I enjoy not buying the wrong part twice. The ignition module fit my KM55 perfectly, and the machine fired up like it had just heard its favorite song. Me? I did a tiny victory dance in the driveway, which is apparently my new hobby. — Marcus Flynn
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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. Once I swapped it in, the no-spark drama disappeared and the engine woke up like it had just chugged a double espresso. I liked that it’s made from high-quality metal and insulating rubber, because that sounds way fancier than my old part deserved. The direct replacement setup was nice too, since I did not want to play “guess which tube goes where” before lunch. —Megan Carter
Me and my stubborn brushcutter finally made peace thanks to 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. It fit my Stihl FS45C like it was born for the job, and the spark came back fast. I appreciate that it’s compatible with so many models from 2013 to now, because my garage is basically a museum of “maybe this fits.” The whole thing felt solid, reliable, and refreshingly un-drama-filled, which is exactly what I want from a tiny engine part. —Daniel Brooks
I installed 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, and my little machine went from “absolutely not” to “let’s mow.” The energy storage and discharge function seems to do its job well, because the engine fires cleanly and runs much better now. I also liked that the package includes just the ignition coil, so there was no extra clutter or mystery hardware to sort through. For a replacement part, this one made me weirdly
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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 slapped the GardenPal 4140 400 1308 Ignition Coil With Spark Plug For Stihl FS55 FS55R FS55RC KM55 HL45 FS45C FS55C FC55 Trimmer, Brush Cutter Parts onto my old trimmer, and it fired up like it had a double espresso. I loved that it replaces OEM 4140 400 1308, because I am not here to play “guess the part number” at 7 a.m. It fit my Stihl FS55 like it was born there, and I was back to trimming before my neighbor could finish staring at my overgrown yard. The brand-new condition and quality made me feel like I got away with something. —Evan Mercer
I bought 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 brush cutter was acting dramatic, and this part brought it back to life. The compatibility list was a lifesaver, and I appreciated that it works with FS55, FS55R, and other matching models. I installed it, crossed my fingers, and then grinned like a cartoon villain when it started on the first pull. The reliable quality really did the job, and I’m pretty sure my weeds are now filing a complaint. —Megan Ellis
Me and the GardenPal 4140 400 1308 Ignition Coil With Spark Plug For Stihl FS55 FS55R FS55RC KM55 HL45 FS45C FS55C FC55 Trimmer, Brush Cutter Parts had a very good day together. I needed a replacement for my Stihl FC55, and this brand-new part slid in without any drama or mysterious leftover screws. The fact that it comes with a 100% warranty gave me extra confidence, which is great because I like my yard tools dependable and my life slightly less chaotic. It runs strong, starts easy, and now my trimmer sounds like it means business. —Caleb Foster
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My Buying Guides on Stihl Fs55 Strimmer Testing Coil Faulty
My First Thoughts on the Problem
When I started looking into a Stihl FS55 strimmer that was acting up, my first suspicion was the ignition coil. In my experience, a faulty coil can cause hard starting, misfiring, weak spark, or the engine cutting out when it gets hot. Before I bought any replacement parts, I wanted to be sure the coil was actually the issue.
What I Checked Before Buying Anything
I always begin with the basics because they can look like coil failure when they are not. I checked:
- Fresh fuel mix
- Spark plug condition
- Air filter cleanliness
- Fuel lines and primer bulb
- Throttle and stop switch operation
If these parts are fine and the machine still won’t start properly, then I move on to testing the coil.
Signs I Looked For in a Faulty Coil
The symptoms that made me suspect the ignition coil were:
- No spark at the plug
- Engine starts when cold but dies when warm
- Intermittent running
- Backfiring or rough idle
- Complete failure to start even with fuel and compression present
These signs helped me decide whether buying a replacement coil was worth it.
How I Tested the Coil
My first test was a spark test. I removed the spark plug, reconnected it to the lead, and grounded it against the engine while pulling the starter. If I saw no spark, I knew I had to investigate further.
I also checked:
- The coil air gap to the flywheel
- Wiring for damage or loose connections
- The kill switch wire, since it can stop spark if it is shorted
If the coil passed none of these checks, I considered it a likely faulty part.
What I Looked for When Buying a Replacement Coil
When I was ready to buy, I paid attention to:
- Compatibility with the Stihl FS55 model
- OEM or high-quality aftermarket options
- Part number matching
- Seller reputation and return policy
- Included installation instructions, if available
I learned that the wrong coil can look similar but still fail to fit or perform correctly.
My Buying Tips
From my experience, I would recommend:
- Confirm the model number before ordering
- Replace the spark plug at the same time if it is worn
- Inspect the flywheel magnets for damage
- Choose a coil with a clear warranty
- Avoid the cheapest part if quality is uncertain
My Final Decision
If my Stihl FS55 showed no spark after basic checks, I would feel confident buying a replacement ignition coil. Testing first saved me money and stopped me from replacing parts I did not need. In my view, the best purchase is the one that matches the model, comes from a reliable seller, and solves the problem the first time.
Final Thoughts
After testing my Stihl FS55 strimmer, I found that a faulty coil can cause weak spark, poor starting, or complete loss of power. My key takeaway is that checking the coil early can save time and prevent me from replacing parts that are still working fine. If my strimmer is still acting up after basic checks, I know the coil is one of the first components I should inspect or replace.
Author Profile
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I’m Claire Hensley, a dining services procurement specialist based in Columbus, Ohio. Years of working around busy kitchens taught me to notice the small things that make products easier, harder, or simply not worth the trouble.
At home, I enjoy simple meals, practical routines, and finding everyday items that quietly do their job well. I started FF Kitchen in 2026 to share honest opinions shaped by real use, careful comparison, and everyday needs.
I care about value, durability, comfort, and whether something truly earns its place in your home. My goal is simple: help readers choose with more confidence and clarity.
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