What could an incorrect ignition pick-up coil gap lead to?

An incorrect ignition pick-up coil gap can lead to a misfire because it affects the timing and strength of the signal generated by the coil. The pick-up coil is responsible for sensing the position of the crankshaft or camshaft and relaying this information to the engine control module (ECM). If the gap is too wide or too narrow, the coil may not generate a sufficient voltage signal, which can result in late or inadequate ignition of the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chambers. This leads to incomplete combustion, resulting in a misfire.

While engine overheating, rough idle, and fuel leakage could also be symptoms related to various engine problems, they are not directly caused by an incorrect gap in the ignition pick-up coil. Overheating usually relates to cooling system issues, rough idle can be a consequence of numerous factors including fuel delivery or vacuum leaks, and fuel leakage is typically a mechanical issue associated with fuel lines or injector seals, not the ignition system. Therefore, the primary effect of an incorrect ignition pick-up coil gap is most clearly linked to causing a misfire.