The ignition coils are components that play a critical role in your engine’s operation. For combustion to occur, the engine needs to create a spark that will ignite the air-fuel mix in the combustion chamber. These coils supply the spark plugs with high-voltage electricity necessary for ignition.
A potential problem in the ignition coil circuit’s operation may cause your vehicle computer to log the P0353 code. Here’s a quick overview that can help you understand what this code means, what are its common causes and symptoms, and how to fix it.
What Does the P0353 Code Mean?
Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0353 stands for “Ignition Coil “C” Primary/Secondary Circuit.”
Most modern engines feature a Coil On Plug or COP ignition system. With this type of ignition system, each engine cylinder has a dedicated coil that sits on top of the spark plug. When the PCM determines the need to fire the spark plugs, it grounds the ignition coil circuit to activate the coil.
This DTC refers to an electrical problem with Ignition Coil “C” (which is the coil located at the #3 cylinder) or its circuit. The P0353 code may trigger from an issue detected from the primary (computer) side or secondary (spark plug) side of the circuit.
For an advanced, technical understanding of the primary and secondary windings of ignition coils, you may read our discussion here.
To ignite the air-fuel mix inside the combustion chamber, the ignition coil/s must transfer enough power for the spark plugs to fire. The coils draw power from the battery, multiply its voltage, and supply high-voltage electricity to the spark plugs. Failure of these ignition coils to operate reliably will ultimately result in poor vehicle performance.
What are the Possible Causes of the P0353 Code?
Here are some common problems to look out for when diagnosing the P0353 code:
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Defective Ignition Coil(s)
- An issue with the ignition coil control circuit
- The PCM has failed or has software in need of an update
What are the Common Symptoms of the P0353 Code?
Here are some common symptoms associated with a defective or malfunctioning ignition coil circuit:
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Check Engine Light will illuminate
- Engine idles rough
- Engine misfires (most noticeable on acceleration)
How to Diagnose the P0353 Code
Identifying the underlying cause of the P0353 code can be difficult, especially if you’re not confident with your automotive knowledge. In most cases, it would be best to bring your vehicle to an auto repair shop and seek the help of a professional to get an accurate diagnosis.
Here are some videos that can give you an idea about how you might diagnose this trouble code:
How to Fix the P0353 Code
The P0353 code is a generic trouble code that may apply to various makes and models. While vehicles from different manufacturers may share common symptoms, the steps for diagnosis and repair of a code P0353 in Ford may not apply to a code P0353 in Toyota vehicles.
If you’re an advanced DIYer who’d like to fix this code on your own, it will be helpful to refer to a repair manual or get factory vehicle repair information from an online subscription service.
Products Mentioned in this Guide
Ignition Coil
Spark Plug
Technical Reviewer at CarParts.com
Automotive and Tech Writers
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.
Toyota SR5 has a misfire every once in a while like you just turned the engine off and then back on mostly on open road, replaced the coil and it runs much better but still does it sometimes, have new plug wires to put on but not sure that’s the problem.
Hi William,
Does your truck have code P0353 set?