Quick Answer
P0359 means: P0359 indicates a malfunction in the ignition coil 'B' circuit, affecting engine ignition.
Can I drive with P0359? Immediate attention is recommended to prevent engine damage and performance loss.
Common Questions
What does P0359 mean and how does it affect my car?
P0359 refers to a malfunction in the ignition coil 'B' circuit, which can lead to engine misfires, poor acceleration, and reduced fuel efficiency. If this code is present, it's vital to address it quickly as it can lead to more severe engine problems and increased repair costs.
What are the most common causes of P0359 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include a faulty ignition coil, damaged wiring, or ECM issues. Repair costs can range significantly based on the root cause, from $50 for wiring repairs to over $600 for ECM replacement.
Can I drive my car with P0359 or should I stop immediately?
It's not advisable to drive your vehicle with a P0359 code. Continuing to operate the vehicle may lead to further engine damage and more expensive repairs. It's best to address the issue promptly.
How can I diagnose P0359 myself using GeekOBD APP?
To diagnose P0359, connect the GeekOBD APP to your vehicle's OBD2 port. Run a scan to retrieve diagnostic codes and review freeze frame data to understand the conditions when the code was triggered. Check the ignition coil and wiring as part of your diagnostic approach.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by P0359?
P0359 is often seen in Ford models like the F-150 (2004-2014), Honda Civic (2006-2011), and Chevrolet Silverado (2001-2013). If you own one of these vehicles, it's crucial to keep an eye on your ignition system.
How can I prevent P0359 from happening again?
To prevent P0359, regularly inspect your ignition system, replace worn ignition coils, and ensure your vehicle's electrical system is in good condition. Regular maintenance and addressing any warning signs can help avoid this issue.
What is P0359?
The DTC P0359 code indicates that there is a malfunction in the ignition coil 'B' primary or secondary circuit. This code is often triggered when the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects an issue with the ignition coil's operation, which is crucial for igniting the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. Ignition coils are responsible for converting low battery voltage into the high voltage needed to create a spark and initiate combustion. When the ignition coil fails or there is a fault in its circuit, the engine may misfire, leading to poor performance, decreased fuel efficiency, and engine stalling. This code can impact various vehicle makes and models, notably those from Ford, Honda, and Chevrolet, especially in vehicles manufactured between 2000 and 2022. Ignoring this code can lead to more severe engine issues, including catalytic converter damage due to unburned fuel. It is essential to address this code promptly to maintain engine performance and avoid costly repairs down the road.
System: P - Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when P0359 is present:
- Check engine light stays on constantly, indicating ongoing issues with the ignition system.
- Engine hesitates during acceleration, making it difficult to maintain speed or causing stalling.
- Fuel economy decreased by 10-15%, meaning you might be filling up more often than usual.
- Rough idling when the engine is at a standstill, resulting in vibrations and discomfort.
- Difficulty starting the engine, which may lead to extended cranking times before the engine fires.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of P0359 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause of P0359 is a faulty ignition coil, which accounts for approximately 60% of cases. This can occur due to wear and tear or overheating.
- Another frequent cause is damaged wiring or connectors in the ignition system, which can lead to a loss of signal or power to the coil.
- An ECM malfunction, although less common, can also trigger this code and may require reprogramming or replacement to fix the issue.
- Less common but serious causes include a short circuit in the ignition coil circuit, which can lead to catastrophic engine failure if not addressed quickly.
- A rare cause can be related to electromagnetic interference from aftermarket accessories, affecting the ignition system's performance.
P0359 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Ignition Coil Replacement
Replacing the faulty ignition coil with a new one to restore proper function.
- Total: $150 - $300
- Success rate: 95%
Wiring Repair
Repairing or replacing damaged wiring to ensure proper connectivity.
- Total: $50 - $150
- Success rate: 85%
ECM Reprogramming
Reprogramming or replacing the ECM if it is found to be faulty.
- Total: $200 - $600
- Success rate: 75%
Money-Saving Tips for P0359
- 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 P0359 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose P0359. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Conduct an initial visual inspection of the ignition coil and surrounding wiring for any obvious signs of damage, such as frayed wires or corrosion (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Conduct an initial visual inspection of the ignition coil and surrounding wiring for any obvious signs of damage, such as frayed wires or corrosion (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan to retrieve all stored codes and freeze frame data, providing context for the P0359 code (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan to retrieve all stored codes and freeze frame data, providing context for the P0359 code (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Test the ignition coil with a multimeter to measure resistance and ensure it falls within the manufacturer’s specifications (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Test the ignition coil with a multimeter to measure resistance and ensure it falls within the manufacturer’s specifications (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: If repairs are made, conduct a system function test to confirm proper operation of the ignition system and clear any stored codes (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: If repairs are made, conduct a system function test to confirm proper operation of the ignition system and clear any stored codes (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Perform a road test under various driving conditions to verify that the issue has been resolved and the check engine light remains off (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Perform a road test under various driving conditions to verify that the issue has been resolved and the check engine light remains off (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 on 2015 Ford F-150
Vehicle: 2015 Ford F-150, 75,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported engine misfires and decreased fuel economy.
Diagnosis: Used GeekOBD APP to retrieve P0359 and confirmed faulty ignition coil during testing.
Solution: Replaced the faulty ignition coil with a new OEM part.
Cost: $250 (including parts and labor)
Result: Customer reported improved engine performance and fuel efficiency after repair.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on 2008 Honda Civic
Vehicle: 2008 Honda Civic, 90,000 miles
Problem: Check engine light on with rough idle and stalling.
Diagnosis: P0359 was triggered due to damaged wiring in the ignition circuit.
Solution: Repaired the damaged wiring and ensured proper connections.
Cost: $100 (including parts and labor)
Result: After the repair, the check engine light remained off and idle was stable.