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Guide To P0356 OBD Error Code Solutions

OBD Code P0356 - Ignition Coil “F” Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction

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The P0356 fault code can be defined as Ignition Coil “F” Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction.


Individual ignition coils are used by the ignition system on the vehicle for each cylinder. Each and every ignition coil is controlled by the engine control module. An ON/OFF signal is sent by the engine control module so that it can energize the ignition coil to create a spark at the spark plug when there is a requirement of spark at the cylinder.

Learn More About OBD Error Code P0356

Searching for more information about P0356 trouble code? It is the ignition system which would convert the battery voltage into the high voltage which is used to ignite the cylinder air/fuel mixture. The side of the system which provides low voltage is called the primary circuit. This would include the battery, ignition switch, primary coil winding, crankshaft sensor as well as ECU. On the other hand, the high voltage side of this system is known as secondary circuit. In the modern vehicles, it would include the coil pack as well as the spark plugs. The low primary circuit voltage is converted into the high secondary voltage with the help of coil pack which is needed to fire the plugs.


The coil pack is generally a transformer which contains coils of wire inside it. In the primary side there are hundred turns of wire while the secondary side has thousands. Current would be then applied to the primary side of the coil, which would thus create a magnetic field around the winding. The current is then interrupted with the help of a switching device which is generally the PCM. This would cause the magnetic field to collapse, inducing the voltage into the winding. Similarly, the collapsing magnetic field would create a voltage in the secondary winding. Since there are many more turns of wire in the secondary winding, then the output voltage would be increased to thousands of volts. This would be enough to ignite the spark plugs.


What causes this problem with the Ignition Coil “F” Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction?


  • The COP could simply be faulty
  • There can be a loose connection in the Coil #6
  • Coil #6’s connector locks might be broken
  • Issue of COP driver circuit being open
  • The COP driver circuit might have a short to voltage or is ground
  • One or more faulty spark plugs
  • There can be an open or shorted circuit in the ignition coil
  • Bad connection to the ignition coil
  • Built-up carbon in the engine’s air passageways or the throttle body
  • A faulty electronic body or idle air control valve
  • Defects in the ignition coil
  • Issues in the spark plug
  • Leakage in the intake manifold vacuum
  • Carbon build up in the throttle body air passages
  • The idle air control valve or electronic body might turn out to be faulty

Replace/Repair These Parts To Fix OBD Code P0356

  1. Ignition Coil - The P0356 code can also arise due to some issues in Ignition Coil. So, it is advised to replace them as soon as possible.
  2. Powertrain Control Module - Do you remember when was the last time you got your car Powertrain Control Module checked up? A damaged Powertrain Control Module can cause a lot of issues like displaying P0356 code.
  3. Engine Control Module - Engine Control Module is an important car part which should never be neglected. May be there is some fault in it due to which P0356 code may start flashing.
  4. Fuel Ignition System - Is your Fuel Ignition System damaged or broken? Don’t worry as we have solutions for all your problems.
  5. Engine Wiring Connector - Defective car Engine Wiring Connector can be a major reason why P0356 code depicts. So, make sure to replace it online so that you don’t have to face any further issues.
  6. Spark Plug - Everything is okay with the Engine Wiring Connector and still OBD code P0356 triggering? Then there must be some defects in Spark Plug. Replace them as soon as possible.
  7. Electronic Control Unit - P0356 code flashing? Get your Electronic Control Unit inspected from a mechanic.
  8. Throttle Body - Throttle Body is an important auto part. Take care of it and you can rely on us to purchase best quality Throttle Body online.

Symptoms Of OBD Error Code P0356

Willing to know some common symptoms of OBD Trouble Code P0356? Your wish is our demand. Have a look at them below:


Common Symptoms


  • Issue of engine hesitation
  • There can be hard to start condition of the engine
  • The malfunction indicator lamp can appear
  • Car engine may idle roughly
  • Engine might misfire on acceleration
  • There can be lack of power in the engine, especially under heavy load

How To Correct P0356 Ignition Coil “F” Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction

If you wish to correct this fault code, then you have to follow certain steps. Correcting a problem needs your careful attention. Here are some ways with the help of which you will be able to correct the OBD Code P0356:


  • Restore the spark plugs and spark plug wiring
  • The faulty ignition coil should be replaced
  • Defective wiring harness should be repaired or replaced as per the requirement
  • Carefully repair the vacuum leaks
  • The damaged PCM should be replaced


There is no need to be anxious as Parts Avatar – Car Parts Online is here to help you out! We have high grade fusion, wiring diagram, battery connectors, fuse and a lot more for our precious customers.

Easy Diagnosis Of Engine Error OBD Code P0356

If you want to easily diagnose this fault code, then all you have to do is to follow the steps which are mentioned below:


  • To easily conduct the troubleshooting for this error code, technicians should start by checking the suspected coil pack resistance through a resistance test.
  • Then the condition of the electrodes of the spark plug should be tested
  • After that it is important to measure the voltage present at the coil pack
  • Carefully inspect the wires that connect the coil packs for signs of corrosion, fraying and even melting
  • Make sure to check the coil pack circuit if it’s getting proper ground supply
  • Then intake manifold for vacuum leaks should be checked properly


At the end measure the Hertz signal sent to the coil pack using multimeter. This step would help to verify whether the PCM is sending the right signal to the coil pack


Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P0356 Code


Many a time’s mechanics can rush to carry out a maintenance tune up. It is true that such a procedure would benefit the vehicle, but it won’t correct the P0356 fault code. That’s the reason why a comprehensive diagnosis should be undertaken so that all the problems can be pinpointed due to which this fault code is triggering.

Other Diagnostic Codes Related To OBD Code P0356

P0350 - Ignition Coil Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction

P0351 - Ignition Coil A Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction

P0352 - Ignition Coil B Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction

P0353 - Ignition Coil C Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction

P0354 - Ignition Coil D Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction

P0355 - Ignition Coil E Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction

P0357 - Ignition Coil G Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction

P0358 - Ignition Coil H Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction

P0359 - Ignition Coil I Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction

P0360 - Ignition Coil J Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction

P0361 - Ignition Coil K Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction

P0362 - Ignition Coil L Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction