What voltage does the ignition system step up to from the battery?

The ignition system in a vehicle significantly boosts the voltage from the battery, typically stepping it up to around 20,000 volts or even higher. This high voltage is necessary to create the electric spark needed to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine's combustion chamber. The ignition coils play a critical role in this process by converting the lower voltage from the battery (usually around 12 volts) into the high voltage required for ignition.

Higher voltages provide a more robust spark, which improves combustion efficiency, ensures more complete burning of the air-fuel mixture, and enhances engine performance. The ability of the ignition system to produce such high voltages is essential for reliable starting and smooth operation under various engine conditions.

The other voltage options listed—5,000, 10,000, and 15,000 volts—while closer than the much lower battery voltage, do not reach the typical levels found in modern ignition systems. These lower voltages would not provide the necessary energy to ignite the fuel adequately, leading to poor engine performance and starting difficulties. Therefore, 20,000 volts is the most accurate and reliable answer reflecting typical ignition system performance.