P0350 code meaning
Ignition Coil Primary/Secondary Circuit/Open
Powertrain system Generic code P03xx codes Check engine light
What P0350 means
P0350 is the general ignition coil circuit code without assignment to a coil: the engine module detects a fault in the primary or secondary circuit of a coil but does not report which one. This typically concerns older systems with a shared output stage or ignition module, or a shared feedback line for all coils. The monitoring works as for P0351 ff – primary-current feedback for each ignition command, or the voltage at the driver. GM and Ford report coil faults individually (P0351 ff, P2300 ff) and do not use P0350; the description follows CARB's output monitoring requirement, which allows one collective code.
P0350 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 2 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0350
- Check engine light on
- Misfire, rough running
- Starting problems or stalling if a shared output stage fails
Common causes of P0350
- Most likelyIgnition coil, coil pack or ignition module faulty
- PossibleShared supply (fuse, relay, ignition feed) or ground open
- PossibleHarness, connector or feedback line to the coils faulty
- Less likelyIgnition lead or plug connector damaged (secondary side)
- Less likelyEngine module or driver
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Ignition coilsIgnition moduleIgnition wiring
What each part of P0350 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 3 | Area: ignition system or misfire. |
| 50 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0350 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P0350
What does P0350 mean?
P0350 means "Ignition Coil Primary/Secondary Circuit/Open". P0350 is the general ignition coil circuit code without assignment to a coil: the engine module detects a fault in the primary or secondary circuit of a coil but does not report which one. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0350?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0350 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0350 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0350 is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P0350 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P0350 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.