A simple "go or no go" ignition coil tester identifies coils that have failed or that are about to fail by driving a coil with sufficient voltage and amperage to operate at its peak output. Coils that have failed or that are close to failure cannot operate at peak output and thus fail the test. A standard kilovolt tester is used to simulate a spark plug and an audio indication of sparking produced by the kilovolt tester is used to confirm operation or failure of the coil. The system dispenses with short circuit and closed circuit test apparatus as well as the structures and failings associated with visual spark indicators.