What is the P0351 fault codes? What is Ignition Coil A Primary/Secondary circuit Malfunction? How do you fix the P0351 fault code What causes the P0351 ?….fault code?
What is the P0351 fault code? What does it mean?
P0351 refers to a general OBD2 diagnostic code that indicates a malfunction in the ignition coil “A”. This code indicates a possible problem with the circuit or ignition coil 1 in cylinder 1.
Each cylinder has its own ignition coil, which is controlled by the powertrain control module (PCM/ECM/ECU). The ignition coils are placed above the spark plugs. This eliminates the need to use wires. Each coil has two connecting cables. One wire goes to power supply while the other goes directly to the ECU. This wire is used to turn on or off the coils by the ECU. The ECU generates the fault code P0351 if there is a problem with the cable. It could also shut off fuel injectors to the cylinder depending on vehicle make.
Now let’s go into a little more detail;
All ignition coils have a primary and a secondary winding. The two windings are intertwined, and the core is made of iron. This is used to strengthen the magnetic fields. The primary winding has the task of generating the high voltage spark necessary for the secondary winds. The ECU instructs the primary winding to send current, and then cuts that current during full ignition. This allows approximately 20-30 thousand volts of secondary winding formation.
For proper ignition, the ECU must monitor the A circuit continuously. It will not receive any signals from the circuit and generate the P0351 fault code. This light will be illuminated to notify the driver.
What Are the Possible Causes of P0351 Fault Code
- – Spark plug wires and spark plug plugs that are defective
- – Defective ignition coil(s)
- Problems with the ignition coil circuit
- – Poor electrical connections
- – Problems in camshaft sensor timing (rarely)
- – ECU/ECM/PCM which needs to be updated or is malfunctioning (rarely).
What are the symptoms for P0351 Fault Codes?
- – Check your engine light is on. Sometimes there may be no other symptoms.
- Difficulty starting the vehicle
- Engine misfire
- – Idle irregularity
- – In sudden acceleration, the engine may hesitate
- – The engine may not be able to produce enough power, especially during heavy loads.
How do I fix the P0351 fault code?
Before you can proceed with repairs, fault codes should be cleared and the vehicle must be tested. Visual inspection of ignition coils and wires is recommended. You can use the scanner to check if there is a fault with any one cylinder, or all cylinders. It is important to check the spark plugs and wires. For proper operation, it is important to test the primary ignition coil if all cylinders fail. If there have been no faults, the ECU should also be checked.
- – Replacing sparkplugs or spark plug wires
- – Replacing damaged ignition coils
- – Repair of wiring cables
- Troubleshooting electric connections
- – ECU Replacement
What is the importance of the P0351 Fault Code
The severity of the symptoms can affect the significance and meaning of the P0351 code. Driving the vehicle can become unsafe if the symptoms are severe. While this code doesn’t prevent you from driving your vehicle, it should still be repaired immediately.
Notes about the P0351 Fault Code
Trouble codes P0351-P0358 may be set if your vehicle’s computer detects an issue with the ignition coil circuit. These codes indicate which cylinder is affected by the problem. The cylinder may have different diagnostic and repair procedures.
