Ignition Coil Control Circuit Low -- Cylinder 1 (Honda) / IC Circuit Low (GM)
What does P1361 mean?
The P1361 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Ignition Coil Control Circuit Low -- Cylinder 1 (Honda) / IC Circuit Low (GM). This is a critical severity code.
Common Symptoms
- Check Engine Light on
- Engine misfire on cylinder 1
- Rough idle and vibration
- Loss of power during acceleration
- Flashing Check Engine Light under load
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Failed ignition coil -- cylinder 1 Very High
- Worn or fouled spark plug High
- Damaged ignition coil connector or wiring Moderate
- ECM/PCM ignition driver circuit fault Moderate
- Spark plug tube seal leaking oil onto coil Low
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
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Swap ignition coil from cylinder 1 with another cylinder to verify
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Inspect and replace spark plug on cylinder 1
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Check the ignition coil connector for oil contamination or corrosion
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Inspect the spark plug tube seal for leaks
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Measure ignition coil resistance values
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with code P1361?
You can drive short distances, but the engine will run on fewer cylinders. A flashing Check Engine Light means catalytic converter damage is occurring. Do not drive aggressively.
What causes P1361 on Honda?
A failed ignition coil on cylinder 1 is the most common cause. Honda engines can also develop valve cover gasket leaks that allow oil to pool around the spark plug tubes, damaging the coil boots.
Should I replace all coils at once?
While only the faulty coil must be replaced, if one coil has failed and the others are the same age, they may fail soon. Many technicians recommend replacing all coils at the same time for preventative maintenance.