AutoCodes – Volkswagen – P0356 Volkswagen

P0356 Volkswagen Code - Ignition Coil 6 Primary/Secondary Circuit

Quick Answer

The ignition system on the vehicle uses individual ignition coils for each cylinder. Common causes include Faulty Ignition Coil 6, Ignition Coil 6 harness is open or shorted, Ignition Coil 6 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: P0356 Volkswagen indicates Ignition Coil 6 Primary/Secondary Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Ignition Coil 6, Ignition Coil 6 harness is open or shorted, Ignition Coil 6 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 6,351

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 14, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0356 Volkswagen Description

The ignition system on the vehicle uses individual ignition coils for each cylinder. The Engine Control Module (ECM) controls each ignition coil operation. The ECM sends a ON/OFF signal to energize the ignition coil to create a spark at the spark plug when a spark is required at the cylinder.

OBDII Code P0356 Volkswagen - Ignition Coil 6 Primary/Secondary Circuit - AutoCodes.com — P0356 Volkswagen Code - Ignition Coil 6 Primary/Secondary Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0356 Volkswagen?

Faulty Ignition Coil 6
Ignition Coil 6 harness is open or shorted
Ignition Coil 6 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0356 Volkswagen?

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 P0356 Volkswagen 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 P0356 Volkswagen code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0356 Volkswagen code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0356 Volkswagen code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 P0356 Volkswagen Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0356 in a Volkswagen?

Symptoms may include engine misfires, rough idling, loss of power, and illuminated Check Engine Light.

2. What does the OBDII code P0356 Volkswagen indicate?

This code specifically points to a problem with the ignition coil 6 primary/secondary circuit.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0356 in a Volkswagen?

Potential causes include a faulty ignition coil, damaged wiring or connectors, a problem with the ignition coil driver circuit, or issues with the Engine Control Module (ECM).

4. How can I diagnose the source of OBDII code P0356 in my Volkswagen?

Diagnosis typically involves inspecting the ignition coil, testing the wiring and connectors for continuity, checking the ignition coil driver circuit, and scanning the ECM for related fault codes.

5. Can I still drive my Volkswagen with OBDII code P0356?

It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with this code present, as it can lead to further damage and potentially unsafe driving conditions.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0356 in my Volkswagen?

Repair options may include replacing the faulty ignition coil, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, addressing issues with the ignition coil driver circuit, or reprogramming the ECM.

7. Is it safe to clear the OBDII code P0356 in my Volkswagen without addressing the underlying issue?

Clearing the code without fixing the problem may temporarily turn off the Check Engine Light, but the issue will likely persist and trigger the code again in the future.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0356 in a Volkswagen?

Depending on your skill level and access to tools, you may be able to address this code yourself by following repair guides and utilizing diagnostic equipment.

9. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P0356 in a Volkswagen at a dealership or repair shop?

Costs can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but expect to pay for diagnostic time, parts (such as an ignition coil), and labor.

10. How can I prevent OBDII code P0356 from recurring in my Volkswagen?

Regular maintenance, such as inspecting and replacing ignition coils as needed, keeping the wiring system in good condition, and addressing any engine performance issues promptly, can help prevent the code from coming back.