Ignition Coil C Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction
P0353 indicates a malfunction in the ignition coil C primary or secondary circuit, which controls spark delivery to one of the engine's cylinders. This code sets when the PCM detects an electrical problem in the coil's wiring, connector, or the coil itself, preventing proper ignition timing and spark generation.
What You Might Notice
- Check Engine Light illumination
- Engine misfire on cylinder C (rough idle or hesitation)
- Reduced fuel economy
- Loss of power during acceleration
- Possible difficulty starting the engine
Most Common Causes
- 1
Faulty Ignition Coil C
The coil-on-plug unit for cylinder C has failed internally or has excessive resistance, preventing proper voltage delivery to the spark plug.
- 2
Wiring short to voltage or ground
The primary or secondary circuit wiring has a short circuit to battery voltage or chassis ground, disrupting the coil driver signal.
- 3
Loose or corroded connector
The electrical connector at coil C is loose, corroded, or has broken connector locks preventing proper contact with the coil terminals.
- 4
Open circuit in coil wiring
A break in the primary or secondary wiring circuit prevents electrical current from reaching the ignition coil.
How to Diagnose It
- 1
Check Faulty Ignition Coil C — The coil-on-plug unit for cylinder C has failed internally or has excessive resistance, preventing proper voltage delivery to the spark plug.
- 2
Check Wiring short to voltage or ground — The primary or secondary circuit wiring has a short circuit to battery voltage or chassis ground, disrupting the coil driver signal.
- 3
Check Loose or corroded connector — The electrical connector at coil C is loose, corroded, or has broken connector locks preventing proper contact with the coil terminals.
- 4
Check Open circuit in coil wiring — A break in the primary or secondary wiring circuit prevents electrical current from reaching the ignition coil.
How to Fix It
- 1
Replace ignition coil C
Remove the faulty coil-on-plug unit from cylinder C and install a new OEM or quality aftermarket replacement, ensuring the connector is fully seated.
- 2
Inspect and repair coil connector
Check the electrical connector at coil C for corrosion, bent pins, or loose locks. Clean with electrical contact cleaner and reseat firmly, or replace the connector assembly if damaged.
- 3
Test and repair wiring circuit
Use a multimeter to check the primary and secondary wiring harness to coil C for shorts to ground/voltage, open circuits, or high resistance. Repair or replace damaged wire sections.
- 4
Clear code and verify repair
After repairs, clear the DTC with a scan tool and test drive the vehicle to confirm the code does not return and engine runs smoothly without misfire.
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