Problems with the ignition system above Cylinder 2 can trigger Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0352, a generic OBD-II DTC that drivers should immediately address to avoid causing further damage to their vehicle. Code P0352 can illuminate the check engine light (CEL), cause the engine to misfire, and reduce engine performance. Although a malfunctioning ignition coil tops the list as one of the primary causes of this diagnostic code, several other electrical or mechanical issues may exist.
The diagnostic and repair guide below explains DTC P0352, its potential causes, diagnostic procedures, and potential solutions. Please keep in mind that the information provided is neither exhaustive nor tailored to a specific vehicle make, model, or model year. For the most accurate repair information, reference the Identifix Direct-Hit platform to view over 3 million confirmed fixes for trouble codes like P0352.
The engine control module (ECM) alerts DTC P0352 — or “Ignition Coil B Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction” — when there is a problem with the ignition system above Cylinder 2. Code P0352 can be broken down into its various digits to understand what it references. For instance:
This DTC can cause a CEL, an engine misfire, powertrain vibrations while idling and driving, or a loss of engine power. It’s vital to your engine’s longevity to address the cause of code P0352 immediately. Failure to act quickly can cause piston rings, spark plugs, and coil packs to wear prematurely and potentially fail.
DTC P0352 indicates a problem in the conversation between the ECM and the ignition coil. Understanding the link between these two elements is essential to determine what components could be at fault. Let’s explore the relationship further before we identify potential causes.
Low-voltage power from the battery travels to the ignition coil, where it is transformed into high-voltage power that’s routed to the spark plug. Specifically, the battery’s power enters the primary coil and transfers to the secondary coil, where it enters a magnetic field — created by the spinning secondary coil — and then fires the spark plug to incite combustion. The ECM monitors this process to ensure correct cylinder-fire timing and alerts code P0352 when conditions fall outside this routine procedure.
Potential causes of DTC P0352 include the following:
Diagnosing code P0352 helps determine which component listed above is responsible and what fix is required to protect the powertrain’s longevity. This code is prone to misdiagnosis, especially when multiple problems exist.
It can be easy to misdiagnose problems with the ignition coil above the second cylinder, which can cause expensive and time-consuming delays. Vacuum leaks and a faulty ECM can mistakenly alert drivers to this DTC and prevent a resolution until they’re addressed. Of the two, vacuum leaks are more straightforward to diagnose and fix without having to trace and test electrical connections.
Use the steps below to pinpoint the root cause of the P0352 code:
It may be helpful to have an extra spark plug or ignition coil on hand during these diagnostic procedures. Switching out these components can help you narrow down this code’s cause and provide an immediate solution. However, if you don’t feel comfortable troubleshooting electrical problems with a wiring harness, consider bringing your vehicle to a trusted mechanic who can perform the diagnosis for you.
The specific solution required to fix DTC P0352 depends on the diagnosis. In the case of faulty components, replacing the damaged component — such as the ECM, coil pack wiring harness, spark plug wires, coil pack, or spark plug — can solve at least one problem. Replacing a cracked vacuum line or leaky intake manifold gasket can also potentially fix the issue.
Unfortunately, some P0352 codes may be caused by multiple issues that do not fully reveal themselves at first glance. Referencing the Identifix Direct-Hit platform can help you further investigate the root causes of this DTC to ensure you find the correct fix quickly. In addition to full-color, interactive wiring diagrams, Direct-Hit features a virtual technician hotline ideal for complex repairs. Contact us today to learn more about Identifix and our full suite of auto repair shop solutions.
Identifix is the leading provider of automotive repair shop solutions and sevices designed to improve shop profitability and repair outcomes.
"*" indicates required fields