AutoCodes – Pontiac – P0351 Pontiac

P0351 Pontiac Code - Ignition Coil 1 Control Circuit

Quick Answer

The ignition system on this engine uses ignition coils with integrated power transistors. Common causes include Faulty Ignition Coil 1, Ignition Coil 1 harness is open or shorted, Ignition Coil 1 circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P0351 Pontiac indicates Ignition Coil 1 Control Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Ignition Coil 1, Ignition Coil 1 harness is open or shorted, Ignition Coil 1 circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 4,691

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 16, 2022

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0351 Pontiac Description

The ignition system on this engine uses ignition coils with integrated power transistors. The Engine Control Module (ECM) controls the spark event for each cylinder through individual ignition coil control circuits. When the ECM commands the ignition control circuit On, electrical current flows through the primary winding of the ignition coil, creating a magnetic field. When a spark event is requested, the ECM commands the ignition control circuit Off, interrupting current flow through the primary winding. The collapsing magnetic field created by the primary winding induces a high voltage in the secondary winding, which is connected to the spark plugs. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the control circuit commanded by the ECM state does not match the actual state.

OBDII Code P0351 Pontiac - Ignition Coil 1 Control Circuit - AutoCodes.com — P0351 Pontiac Code - Ignition Coil 1 Control Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0351 Pontiac?

Faulty Ignition Coil 1
Ignition Coil 1 harness is open or shorted
Ignition Coil 1 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0351 Pontiac?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0351 Pontiac code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0351 Pontiac Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0351 in a Pontiac related to the Ignition Coil 1 Control Circuit?

- Common symptoms include engine misfires, rough idling, lack of power, and illuminated check engine light.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0351 in a Pontiac?

- The code P0351 typically indicates a problem with the ignition coil for cylinder 1, such as a faulty coil, damaged wiring, or a poor connection.

3. How can I diagnose the issue causing OBDII code P0351 in my Pontiac?

- You can diagnose the issue by checking the ignition coil for cylinder 1, inspecting the wiring for any damage or loose connections, and using a scan tool to monitor the ignition system.

4. Can a bad spark plug cause OBDII code P0351 in a Pontiac?

- Yes, a faulty spark plug can potentially cause code P0351 by affecting the performance of the ignition coil for cylinder 1.

5. What are some repair tips for addressing OBDII code P0351 in a Pontiac?

- Repair tips include replacing the ignition coil for cylinder 1, inspecting and repairing any damaged wiring, ensuring proper connections, and checking the spark plug for signs of wear or damage.

6. Is it safe to continue driving my Pontiac with OBDII code P0351 present?

- It is not recommended to drive your Pontiac with code P0351 present, as it can lead to engine performance issues and potential damage if left unresolved.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0351 in a Pontiac?

- The cost of repairing code P0351 can vary depending on the specific issue, but it generally involves replacing the ignition coil, which can range from $100 to $300 including parts and labor.

8. Can I reset OBDII code P0351 in my Pontiac using a scan tool?

- Yes, you can reset the code using a scan tool, but it is important to address the underlying issue causing the code to prevent it from reoccurring.

9. Will disconnecting the battery reset OBDII code P0351 in my Pontiac?

- Disconnecting the battery may reset the code temporarily, but it is not a recommended method as it may not address the root cause of the issue.

10. How can I prevent OBDII code P0351 from appearing in my Pontiac in the future?

- To prevent code P0351, you should perform regular maintenance on your ignition system, including checking and replacing spark plugs, inspecting ignition coils, and ensuring proper wiring connections.