Ignition Coil C Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction (Cylinder 3)
What does P0353 mean?
The P0353 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Ignition Coil C Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction (Cylinder 3). This is a moderate severity code.
Common Symptoms
- Engine misfire on cylinder 3
- Rough idle and vibration
- Check Engine Light illuminated or flashing
- Reduced power
- Exhaust smells of unburned fuel
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Faulty ignition coil on cylinder 3 Very High
- Worn or fouled spark plug on cylinder 3 High
- Damaged coil connector or wiring High
- PCM coil driver circuit failure for cylinder 3 Moderate
- Cracked coil boot causing spark blowout Low
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
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Swap cylinder 3 ignition coil with another cylinder -- if the code moves, the coil is bad
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Inspect the spark plug on cylinder 3 for wear, fouling, or damage
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Measure coil primary resistance (0.4-2.0 ohms) and secondary resistance (6,000-15,000 ohms)
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Check the coil connector and boot for cracks, carbon tracking, or melted plastic
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Test the PCM driver signal at the coil connector
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with code P0353?
You can drive short distances with a steady Check Engine Light. If flashing, pull over immediately. On V6 engines, cylinder 3 may be on the rear bank, making it harder to access.
Can moisture cause ignition coil failure?
Yes. Water intrusion around the coil boot or connector can cause spark blowout or coil short-circuit. This is common on engines where the coils sit in deep spark plug wells that collect moisture.
What is carbon tracking on an ignition coil?
Carbon tracking appears as a dark line or arc mark on the coil boot or inside the spark plug well. It is a path where electricity has arced outside the intended path, and it means the coil boot or coil must be replaced.