AutoCodesMercury – P2306 Mercury

P2306 Mercury Code - Ignition Coil 'C' Primary Control Circuit Low

Quick Answer

The current flow, or dwell, through the primary ignition coil is controlled by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) by providing a switched ground path through the ignition coil driver to ground. Common causes include Faulty Ignition Coil 'C', Ignition Coil 'C' harness is open or shorted, Ignition Coil 'C' 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
P2306 Mercury indicates Ignition Coil 'C' Primary Control Circuit Low.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Ignition Coil 'C', Ignition Coil 'C' harness is open or shorted, Ignition Coil 'C' 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 1,274
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020
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Code P2306 Mercury Description

The current flow, or dwell, through the primary ignition coil is controlled by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) by providing a switched ground path through the ignition coil driver to ground. When the ignition coil driver is switched on, current rapidly builds up to a maximum value, determined by the coil inductance and resistance. When the current is switched off, the magnetic field collapses which induces a secondary high voltage surge and the spark plug is fired. This high voltage surge creates a flyback voltage which the PCM uses as a feedback during the ignition diagnostics. The PCM continuously monitors the ignition system for concerns. The P2306 code sets when the PCM detects a short to voltage in the circuit.
OBDII Code P2306 Mercury - Ignition Coil 'C' Primary Control Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com
P2306 Mercury Code - Ignition Coil 'C' Primary Control Circuit Low

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2306 Mercury?

  • Faulty Ignition Coil 'C'
  • Ignition Coil 'C' harness is open or shorted
  • Ignition Coil 'C' circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P2306 Mercury?

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 P2306 Mercury 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 P2306 Mercury Code

What does the OBDII code P2306 mean?

The OBDII code P2306 indicates a problem with the ignition coil 'C' primary control circuit, specifically that the voltage is low, which can lead to ignition issues.

What are common symptoms of the P2306 code?

Common symptoms include rough idling, engine misfires, decreased fuel efficiency, and difficulty starting the engine.

What can cause the P2306 code to trigger?

Causes may include a faulty ignition coil, damaged wiring or connectors in the ignition circuit, or issues with the engine control module (ECM).

How can I diagnose the P2306 code?

To diagnose, start by inspecting the ignition coil and its wiring for damage. Use a multimeter to check the resistance of the ignition coil and verify that the primary circuit is receiving proper voltage.

Is it safe to drive with the P2306 code?

While it may be possible to drive, it’s not recommended as the engine may misfire, leading to further damage and potentially unsafe driving conditions.

What repairs are typically needed for a P2306 code?

Repairs often involve replacing the faulty ignition coil, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, and rechecking the ECM for any issues.

Can a bad spark plug cause the P2306 code?

Yes, a bad spark plug can lead to misfires and increased load on the ignition coil, potentially causing the P2306 code to trigger.

How do I clear the P2306 code from my vehicle's system?

You can clear the code using an OBDII scanner after addressing the underlying issue, or by disconnecting the battery for a short period, but it’s important to fix the problem first.

What should I do if the P2306 code returns after repairs?

If the code returns, recheck the wiring and connectors for any undetected issues and consider having the ECM tested, as it may be malfunctioning.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P2306 Mercury OBDII Code

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