Quick Answer
P0351 means: P0351 indicates a malfunction in the ignition coil 'A' circuit, which affects engine performance.
Can I drive with P0351? Immediate inspection is recommended to prevent further engine damage.
Common Questions
What does P0351 mean and how does it affect my car?
P0351 indicates a malfunction in the ignition coil 'A' circuit, affecting the engine's ability to ignite fuel properly. This can lead to poor performance, stalling, and increased emissions. If left unchecked, it may cause further engine damage, so it's vital to address it promptly.
What are the most common causes of P0351 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include faulty ignition coils, damaged wiring, and electrical issues. Repair costs typically range from $150 to $400 for coil replacement, depending on labor and parts. Wiring repairs can range from $100 to $300.
Can I drive my car with P0351 or should I stop immediately?
Driving with a P0351 code is risky. It can lead to severe engine issues, including complete failure. If your vehicle shows symptoms like stalling or misfiring, it's advisable to stop and have it inspected as soon as possible.
How can I diagnose P0351 myself using GeekOBD APP?
Using the GeekOBD APP, you can connect to your vehicle's OBD2 port and scan for trouble codes. Look specifically for P0351 and any related codes. You can also view freeze frame data to understand the conditions when the code was set, assisting in pinpointing the issue.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by P0351?
P0351 is commonly reported in vehicles like the 2000-2015 Honda Accord and 2000-2015 Toyota Camry. Always check for manufacturer recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that might relate to this code.
How can I prevent P0351 from happening again?
Regular maintenance, including checking the ignition system and electrical connections, can help prevent P0351. Ensure that your vehicle has routine inspections and keep an eye out for any signs of engine trouble.
What is P0351?
The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0351 refers to a malfunction in the ignition coil 'A' primary/secondary circuit. This code is triggered when the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects a problem with the electrical circuit that connects the ignition coil to the ignition system. The ignition coil is crucial for converting the battery's low voltage into the high voltage needed to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine's cylinders. When a fault occurs, it can lead to misfires, rough idling, or even engine stalling. Common symptoms include a check engine light appearing on the dashboard, loss of power, and decreased fuel efficiency. This issue might arise from various factors, including faulty ignition coils, damaged wiring, or failed ECM. The importance of addressing this code cannot be overstated, as neglecting it can lead to more severe engine problems and potentially expensive repairs down the line. Car owners should be aware that while this code is prevalent in many vehicles, models such as the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry from 2000 to 2015 are frequently affected.
System: P - Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when P0351 is present:
- Check engine light stays on constantly, indicating a persistent issue that needs attention.
- Engine hesitates during acceleration, leading to a frustrating driving experience and potential safety hazards.
- Fuel economy decreased by 10-15%, resulting in higher operational costs and frequent trips to the gas station.
- Rough idling when the vehicle is stationary, making the car feel unstable and uncomfortable.
- Difficulty starting the engine, leading to delays and potential breakdowns.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of P0351 (ordered by frequency):
- Faulty ignition coil, which is the most common cause (60% likelihood). A defective coil can cause misfires and poor engine performance.
- Damaged wiring or connectors that lead to the ignition coil, which can cause intermittent or complete failure of the ignition system.
- Failed ECM, although less common, this can disrupt communication and control of the ignition system.
- Poor ground connections, which can lead to erratic electrical behavior and trigger the P0351 code.
- Corrosion in the ignition coil or connectors, potentially leading to short circuits and failures.
P0351 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Ignition Coil Replacement
Replacing the faulty ignition coil with a new one to restore proper engine function.
- Total: $150 - $400
- Success rate: 95%
Wiring Repair
Repairing or replacing damaged wiring to ensure proper electrical connection.
- Total: $100 - $300
- Success rate: 90%
Money-Saving Tips for P0351
- Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
- Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
- Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
- Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
- Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage
Diagnostic Steps
Professional P0351 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose P0351. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the ignition coil and associated wiring (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the ignition coil and associated wiring (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes to ensure the issue is resolved (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes to ensure the issue is resolved (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success (15-20 minutes).
Important Notes
- Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
- Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
- Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence
Real Repair Case Studies
Case Study 1: Ignition Coil Replacement in 2010 Honda Accord
Vehicle: 2010 Honda Accord, 120,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported frequent misfires and a check engine light.
Diagnosis: Used the GeekOBD APP to read P0351 and confirmed faulty ignition coil through resistance testing.
Solution: Replaced the ignition coil and performed a system function test to ensure proper operation.
Cost: $250 (parts and labor breakdown: $150 for the ignition coil, $100 for labor)
Result: Customer reported smooth engine performance post-repair and no further check engine light.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on 2008 Toyota Camry
Vehicle: 2008 Toyota Camry, 95,000 miles
Problem: Engine hesitated during acceleration and check engine light illuminated.
Diagnosis: Scanned for codes with GeekOBD APP and found P0351. Inspected wiring and found corrosion.
Solution: Repaired damaged wiring and cleaned the connectors. Cleared codes and retested.
Cost: $180 (parts and labor breakdown: $80 for wiring repair, $100 for labor)
Result: Vehicle performance improved with no recurrence of symptoms.