Abstract: An apparatus for testing the actual functioning of an automotive coil includes a housing with a switch and a capacitor across the switch. Connections to ground and to a coil that is placed in series with the apparatus are provided. An opposite side of the coil either is or remains connected to a positive source of voltage, such as a battery in the automobile. The positive source of voltage is also connected to a visible spark tester. Cycling of the switch activates the coil and produces an arc that is visible in the spark tester. An additional circuit is provided in the housing that verifies the presence of a minimum required voltage.