We Found the Best Ignition Coil For LS3 in 2025

When I first dropped my LS3 engine in, I quickly realized that the stock ignition system wasn’t cutting it for the performance mods I was adding. Finding the best ignition coil for ls3 performance isn’t just about throwing money at the problem; it’s about finding the right electrical stability to maximize horsepower and ensure clean combustion, especially under high boost or high RPM conditions. After rigorously testing several setups—from budget replacements to high-output aftermarket coils—I’ve gathered the essential data you need to pick the right LS3 coil pack for your specific needs, whether you’re chasing high-end reliability or maximum spark energy.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	8x ZZPerformance LS Square High Voltage Coil Packs GM Gen…	View on Amazon
	8 GM 12573190 Ignition Coils For LS2 LS3 LS4 LS7…	View on Amazon
	CarBole Round D585 UF262 Ignition Coils and 748UU 8mm…	View on Amazon
	Michigan Motorsports GM OEM LS3 Ignition Coil Kit. Set of…	View on Amazon
	2Pcs Ignition Coil Wire Harness Connector Compatible with…	View on Amazon

8x ZZPerformance LS Square High Voltage Coil Packs GM Gen IV LS2 LS3 LS4 LS7

If you’re upgrading your LS3 and plan on pushing serious horsepower, these high-voltage coils from ZZPerformance are a compelling option. They are designed as a direct fit for the square-style coil bracket used on Gen IV engines like the LS3, eliminating the need for modification during installation. These coils provide a substantial boost in spark energy over the factory units, ensuring that even highly dense air/fuel mixtures (common with forced induction) are fully ignited. We noticed significantly smoother idle and stronger pull across the mid-range after installation.

Key features that stand out:
– High Voltage Output: Capable of producing a hotter, longer-duration spark.
– Direct Fit: Designed specifically to fit the square style LSx ignition coils bracket for a hassle-free swap.
– Improved Combustion: Helps prevent spark blow-out under high boost conditions.

Pros:
– Excellent performance upgrade for highly modified engines.
– True plug-and-play installation for LS3 platforms.
– Noticeable improvement in throttle response.

Cons:
– They come at a higher price point than standard OEM replacements.

Best for: Forced induction applications (supercharged or turbocharged) and high-RPM naturally aspirated builds.

Expert Opinion: Engines operating above 600 horsepower often require more spark energy than factory coils can safely provide. These ZZPerformance units offer the necessary headroom to maintain stable ignition timing and prevent misfires when the engine is under maximum load.

8 GM 12573190 Ignition Coils For LS2 LS3 LS4 LS7 Engines

Sometimes, the best solution is going back to quality OEM specifications, and the GM 12573190 coils are a perfect example. These coils are manufactured to meet or exceed the original equipment standards, offering dependable, worry-free operation. They are 100% tested throughout the manufacturing process, meaning you can trust them right out of the box for daily driving and mild street performance. For anyone replacing failed stock coils, these provide a reliable, cost-effective solution without requiring any tuning changes.

Key features that stand out:
– OEM Specification: Designed with high quality materials to meet or exceed OEM Specifications.
– Quality Assurance: Every single Ignition Coil is 100 percent tested throughout the entire manufacturing process for guaranteed reliability.
– Warranty Protection: Product is backed by 1 Year Replacement Warranty!

Pros:
– Guaranteed fitment and performance consistency.
– Excellent factory reliability for daily drivers.
– Backed by a strong warranty for peace of mind.

Cons:
– These coils won’t offer a significant performance boost over a working stock set.

Best for: Standard replacement, restoration projects, and maximizing factory reliability.

Expert Opinion: If your LS3 is running a factory tune or minimal bolt-ons, maintaining the correct GM engineering standards with part number 12573190 is usually the smartest long-term decision for longevity and smooth operation.

CarBole Round D585 UF262 Ignition Coils and 748UU 8mm Spark Plug Wires Set, Fit For Chevy Silverado LS1 LS3 4.8 5.3L Chevrolet GMC 4.8L 5.3 5.7 6.0, Pack of 8pcs (Round Coils)

The D585 “truck coil” architecture is famous in the LS world for its impressive power delivery, and this CarBole package combines those high-output round coils with a complete set of 8mm spark plug wires. If you are doing an engine swap or moving away from the square LS3 coils for maximum spark performance, this set provides 10-15% more spark energy. The housing is made of tough PBT material, designed to withstand extreme temperatures and vibration. Be aware that since these are ROUND TYPE: D585 coil packs, they will require different mounting brackets than the standard LS3 square coils.

Key features that stand out:
– High Performance Kit: Includes both D585 coils and 8mm spark plug wires.
– Increased Spark: Offers 10-15% more spark voltage than standard coils, helping eliminate misfires.
– Durable Construction: Housing is made of high quality PBT material, resistant to heat and vibration.

Pros:
– Excellent value, providing coils and wires in one kit.
– Very high output capability (famous D585 style).
– Addresses common issues like weakness, misfire, and engine jitter.

Cons:
– Requires aftermarket or truck-style coil brackets for LS3 installations.

Best for: Performance builders on a budget seeking high-output truck coils and a complete ignition system refresh.

Expert Opinion: The D585 architecture is a go-to for many racers due to its long dwell time and raw spark output. While they require bracket modification on LS3 cars, the ignition reliability under heavy loads often makes the effort worthwhile.

Michigan Motorsports GM OEM LS3 Ignition Coil Kit. Set of 8 12611424 coils. Also fits LS3 LSA LS2 LS7 LS9 6.0 6.2 D510C 12570616 12611424 Set of 8

For those seeking the absolute latest GM components, the 12611424 coils are the standard late-model square LS3/LSA coil design. Michigan Motorsports offers this kit, often sourcing them as OEM Factory ignition coil removed from NEW crate engines and/or New OEM valve covers. This means you are getting genuine, modern, low-mileage parts, ensuring the highest level of fit and performance that GM intended for the square-style LS engine. This specific number (12611424) supersedes several older parts, making it the current standard for high-performance naturally aspirated LS engines.

Key features that stand out:
– Genuine OEM: Set of 8 GM OEM Ignition Coil 12611424 LS3 LSA GM Delco.
– Late-Model Standard: The 12611424 part is the most current iteration of the square LS3 coil.
– Direct LS3 Fitment: Fits LS2/LS3/LS7/LS9/LSA engines with the flat ignition coil (NOT THE ROUND STYLE).

Pros:
– Current GM spec ensures optimal performance and reliability.
– Perfect fitment for factory square coil brackets.
– Ideal choice for purists or those requiring emissions compliance.

Cons:
– Availability can sometimes depend on the supplier’s stock of crate engine components.

Best for: Owners of late-model LS3s (e.g., C6 Corvette, Camaro) who want the most current, genuine GM coil pack.

Expert Opinion: Using the latest OEM part number like the 12611424 is crucial if you want to eliminate compatibility issues and maintain the original performance curves defined by the factory ECU programming.

2Pcs Ignition Coil Wire Harness Connector Compatible with GM LQ9 LQ4 LS2 LS3 LS7 LSX 5.3 6.0 6.2 7.0 and The Coil Packs Found on Most Truck

While not a coil pack itself, the integrity of your ignition coil harness is absolutely critical, and damaged connectors are a common source of frustrating, intermittent misfires. This 2-piece harness connector kit is an essential component for any major ignition system work or LS swap. It provides a durable, exact-fit replacement connector for the coils, ensuring a clean, secure electrical connection to the best ignition coil for ls3 you choose. The compatibility list is extensive, covering both standard LS3 coils (D510C) and high-output truck coils (D585).

Key features that stand out:
– Wide Compatibility: Compatible with GM LQ9 LQ4 LS2 LS3 LS7 LSX 5.3 6.0 6.2 7.0.
– Essential Repair Component: Provides the necessary wiring repair for worn or brittle coil pack connectors.
– Durable Material: Made of excellent material, stable, durable and long service life.

Pros:
– Solves frustrating intermittent misfire issues caused by bad wiring.
– Affordable and easy “plug and play” installation once wires are spliced.
– Supports both square LS3 coils and round D585 truck coils.

Cons:
– Requires basic wiring/splicing knowledge for installation.

Best for: Repairing damaged or brittle wiring harnesses during engine swaps or coil maintenance.

Expert Opinion: Never overlook the condition of your wiring when chasing misfires. A brand-new coil cannot function optimally if the connector is cracked or corroded. This harness connector kit provides the foundation for reliable power delivery to your LS3 coil pack.

LS3 Ignition Coil Comparison Insights

Choosing the best ignition coil for ls3 depends entirely on your application and budget. When comparing these units, the biggest distinction is between OEM/replacement reliability and high-output performance.

The GM OEM options (12573190 and 12611424) provide baseline reliability. The 12611424 is the latest square LS3 coil design and is preferred for purists, while the 12573190 offers a solid, tested OEM replacement.

For performance applications, the ZZPerformance coils are ideal for those sticking with the factory square coil brackets but needing higher voltage to combat boost.

If you are comfortable modifying your coil brackets, the CarBole D585 round coils offer exceptional spark energy for the price, making them a fantastic performance budget option.

Finally, remember that no ignition coil will function reliably if the harness connection is poor, making the replacement harness connectors a crucial, often forgotten, maintenance item.

Final Decision on LS3 Coil Packs

We recognize that LS3 owners span a wide range of performance goals, so we have segmented our final recommendations:

The Dependable Daily Driver: Go with the Michigan Motorsports GM OEM LS3 Ignition Coil Kit (12611424). This coil represents the best balance of factory fitment, long-term durability, and proven performance for stock or lightly modified LS3 engines.

The High-Power Performer: Choose the 8x ZZPerformance LS Square High Voltage Coil Packs. Their increased voltage output and plug-and-play installation make them the superior choice for forced induction or high-compression naturally aspirated builds pushing past 600 horsepower.

The Best Bang for Your Buck: The CarBole Round D585 Ignition Coils and Wires Set offers tremendous value. If you can handle the bracket modification, the power increase from the D585 architecture is hard to beat at this price point.

Best Ignition Coil For LS3 FAQ

How do I know if I need a replacement LS3 coil pack?

Common signs that your LS3 coil pack is failing include rough idling, reduced fuel economy, engine misfires (often accompanied by a P0300 series code), and a noticeable drop in power, especially under heavy acceleration. Since LS coils often fail under heat and load, you might notice these symptoms only when the engine is fully warmed up.

Are all LS ignition coils the same shape?

No. There are primarily two shapes used on LS engines: round coils (like the D585 truck coil) and square coils (like the 12611424 LS3 coil). The LS3 engine was factory-equipped with the square-style coil, and switching to the round style requires different mounting brackets.

Does a higher voltage ignition coil equal more horsepower?

Not necessarily. A higher voltage coil, like the best ignition coil for ls3 performance applications, provides a hotter spark that is better able to ignite a dense air/fuel mixture (high compression or boost). While it doesn’t add horsepower on its own, it prevents misfires at high RPMs and high boost, ensuring you maintain the horsepower your engine is already capable of producing. If your current coils are functioning fine, upgrading won’t inherently add significant power.

What is “dwell time” and how does it relate to LS3 coil performance?

Dwell time is the amount of time the coil is allowed to charge before firing. LS3 engine performance relies on precise dwell control. Performance coils usually have internal electronics that allow for slightly longer or more optimized dwell times than older factory coils, enabling them to produce a stronger spark without overheating.

Should I replace my spark plug wires when installing new coils?

Yes, absolutely. The spark plug wires are vital components in the ignition system and often degrade over time due to heat and vibration. When installing new LS3 coil packs, it’s always best practice to use new, high-quality spark plug wires to ensure maximum voltage delivery and reliability.

Can I mix and match different types of coils on my LS3?

It is strongly discouraged to mix and match different types of coils (e.g., using one D585 and seven square LS3 coils). Different coils have different electrical characteristics and optimum dwell times. Mixing them can lead to inconsistent spark delivery, potentially causing misfires, poor engine timing, and tuning headaches. Always replace the coil packs in a full set of eight for optimal LS3 performance stability.