AutoCodes – GMC – P0353 GMC

P0353 GMC Code - Ignition Coil 3 Control Circuit

Quick Answer

The ignition system on this engine uses ignition coils with integrated power transistors. Common causes include Faulty Ignition Coil 3, Ignition Coil 3 harness is open or shorted, Ignition Coil 3 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: P0353 GMC indicates Ignition Coil 3 Control Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Ignition Coil 3, Ignition Coil 3 harness is open or shorted, Ignition Coil 3 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 6,390

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
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0353 GMC 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 P0353 GMC - Ignition Coil 3 Control Circuit - AutoCodes.com — P0353 GMC Code - Ignition Coil 3 Control Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0353 GMC?

Faulty Ignition Coil 3
Ignition Coil 3 harness is open or shorted
Ignition Coil 3 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0353 GMC?

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 P0353 GMC 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.

Need more information about the P0353 GMC code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0353 GMC code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0353 GMC code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific GMC Models

P0353 2014 GMC Sierra — Ignition Coil 3 Control Circuit
P0353 2015 GMC Sierra — Ignition Coil 3 Control Circuit
P0353 2016 GMC Sierra — Ignition Coil 3 Control Circuit
P0353 2017 GMC Sierra — Ignition Coil 3 Control Circuit
P0353 2018 GMC Sierra — Ignition Coil 3 Control Circuit

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 P0353 GMC Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0353 mean on a GMC vehicle?

P0353 indicates an issue with the ignition coil "C" (Ignition Coil 3) control circuit, which may involve a malfunction in the coil itself, the wiring, or the engine control module (ECM).

2. What are the common symptoms of code P0353 in a GMC?

Symptoms include rough engine idle, misfires, reduced fuel efficiency, hesitation during acceleration, and the Check Engine Light being illuminated.

3. What causes the P0353 code on a GMC?

Common causes include a faulty ignition coil, damaged or corroded wiring/connectors, an issue with the ECM, or a malfunctioning spark plug.

4. Can I drive my GMC with a P0353 code?

Driving with a P0353 code is not recommended, as it can lead to further engine damage, decreased performance, and increased emissions.

5. How do I diagnose the P0353 code on my GMC?

Begin by inspecting the ignition coil, wiring, and connectors for damage or corrosion. You can also swap the suspected coil with another cylinder and check if the code follows the coil.

6. How do I fix the P0353 code on a GMC?

Repairs may involve replacing the faulty ignition coil, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or in rare cases, reprogramming or replacing the ECM.

7. Can a bad spark plug cause the P0353 code?

Yes, a malfunctioning spark plug can cause the ignition coil to work improperly, triggering the P0353 code.

8. How much does it cost to fix the P0353 code on a GMC?

Repair costs vary but typically range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor, depending on whether the issue is with the ignition coil, wiring, or other components.

9. Will clearing the P0353 code fix the problem on my GMC?

Clearing the code will reset the Check Engine Light, but it won’t fix the underlying issue. The problem will likely return until the root cause is addressed.

10. How can I prevent the P0353 code from occurring again on my GMC?

Regular maintenance, such as inspecting ignition components, replacing spark plugs at recommended intervals, and addressing wiring issues promptly, can help prevent this code.