P0355: Ignition Coil E Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction

Definition

The OBD2 code P0355 indicates a malfunction in the primary or secondary circuit of ignition coil E, which can lead to issues with engine performance, misfires, or starting problems

Common causes

Faulty ignition coil
Damaged wiring or connectors
Short circuit in the ignition coil circuit
Open circuit in the ignition coil circuit
Faulty engine control module (ECM)
Poor ground connection
Corroded connectors
Faulty spark plugs or ignition wires

Common misdiagnoses

Faulty ignition coil
Bad spark plugs
Ignition control module failure
Wiring issues or shorts
Engine control unit (ECU) malfunction
Fuel injector problems
Vacuum leaks
Crankshaft or camshaft position sensor failure

Troubleshooting steps

1. Check for Additional Codes

Before proceeding, use an OBD-II scanner to check for any other related trouble codes. This can provide more context for the problem
2. Visual Inspection
3. Inspect the ignition coil and its wiring for any visible damage, such as frayed wires, corrosion, or loose connections
4. Check the connectors for signs of wear or damage
5. Test the Ignition Coil
6. Use a multimeter to test the resistance of the ignition coil. Compare the readings to the specifications provided in the vehicle’s service manual
7. If the coil is out of specification, it may need to be replaced
8. Check the Power and Ground Supply
9. Verify that the ignition coil is receiving the correct voltage. Use a multimeter to check for power at the coil connector while the ignition is on
10. Ensure that the ground connection is solid and free of corrosion
11. Inspect the PCM (Powertrain Control Module)
12. Check for any signs of damage or corrosion in the PCM connectors
13. If other components are functioning normally, the PCM may be at fault, but this is less common
14. Test the Wiring
15. Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the wiring between the ignition coil and the PCM
16. Look for any shorts to ground or open circuits
17. Swap Ignition Coils
18. If the vehicle has multiple ignition coils, consider swapping the suspected faulty coil with a known good one to see if the code follows the coil
19. Check for Vacuum Leaks
20. Vacuum leaks can cause misfires that may trigger ignition coil codes. Inspect hoses and gaskets for leaks
21. Inspect Spark Plugs
22. Check the condition of the spark plugs. Worn or fouled plugs can cause misfires and may lead to ignition coil issues
23. Clear the Codes and Test Drive
24. After performing repairs or replacements, clear the trouble codes and take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code reappears. 1
25. Consult a Professional
26. If the issue persists after performing these steps, it may be best to consult a professional mechanic for further diagnosis. By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue related to the P0355 code

Definition

Common causes

Common misdiagnoses

Troubleshooting steps

1. Check for Additional Codes

2. Visual Inspection

3. Inspect the ignition coil and its wiring for any visible damage, such as frayed wires, corrosion, or loose connections

4. Check the connectors for signs of wear or damage

5. Test the Ignition Coil

6. Use a multimeter to test the resistance of the ignition coil. Compare the readings to the specifications provided in the vehicle’s service manual

7. If the coil is out of specification, it may need to be replaced

8. Check the Power and Ground Supply

9. Verify that the ignition coil is receiving the correct voltage. Use a multimeter to check for power at the coil connector while the ignition is on

10. Ensure that the ground connection is solid and free of corrosion

11. Inspect the PCM (Powertrain Control Module)

12. Check for any signs of damage or corrosion in the PCM connectors

13. If other components are functioning normally, the PCM may be at fault, but this is less common

14. Test the Wiring

15. Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the wiring between the ignition coil and the PCM

16. Look for any shorts to ground or open circuits

17. Swap Ignition Coils

18. If the vehicle has multiple ignition coils, consider swapping the suspected faulty coil with a known good one to see if the code follows the coil

19. Check for Vacuum Leaks

20. Vacuum leaks can cause misfires that may trigger ignition coil codes. Inspect hoses and gaskets for leaks

21. Inspect Spark Plugs

22. Check the condition of the spark plugs. Worn or fouled plugs can cause misfires and may lead to ignition coil issues

23. Clear the Codes and Test Drive

24. After performing repairs or replacements, clear the trouble codes and take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code reappears. 1

25. Consult a Professional

26. If the issue persists after performing these steps, it may be best to consult a professional mechanic for further diagnosis. By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue related to the P0355 code