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P0360 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Ignition Coil I Primary / Secondary Circuit Malfunction". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.
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The P0360 code is defined as an ignition coil I primary/secondary circuit malfunction.
When the P0360 code is stored, it means that the vehicle’s PCM (Powertrain Control Module) detected a problem with the primary or secondary circuit with at least one of the ignition coils.
Almost all modern vehicles that have a PCM were manufactured with a COP (Coil on Plug) system. Essentially, instead of using a spark plug, an ignition coil is attached to the engine in such a way that a small spark plug wire or plug boot can be used to start the engine. Each of the vehicle’s ignition coils is controlled electronically by the PCM, but this also means that the module can monitor each coil’s performance too.
It’s this connection that the P0276 code pertains to, though, sometimes, it’s just the coils themselves that have triggered it. Designs typically present a switched supply of voltage from the battery to the ignition coil. The PCM supplies a pulsing ground to activate ignition spark and also manage ignition timing. There is an acceptable range for the ignition coil circuit voltage. Anything that differs by 10% from this margin will force the PCM to store the code.
There are three common reasons that could cause the unacceptable ignition coil circuit voltage. They are:
In very rare cases, the PCM may actually be faulty and falsely reporting the P0276 code.
Usually, when this code is stored, the Check Engine Light comes on. An engine that struggles with acceleration is also a fairly common symptom. The vehicle may also misfire when sitting idle. Other engine problems that could result because of a P0276 problem would include poor fuel economy or a fuel injector that gets turned off by the PCM to prevent further damage. Other codes related to misfires are typically stored along with P0276 too.
A mechanic will use an OBD-II scanner to find out which codes have been stored by the PCM. They will then move onto inspecting the ignition coils, their wiring and the connectors. Once necessary repairs, replacements and/or cleaning are done, they will clear the codes and restart the vehicle.
When a customer brings in a vehicle that sports some or all of the aforementioned systems, many mechanics begin on a maintenance tune-up right away. Although it may help in a lot of ways, this method isn’t going to clear the P0276 code or fix its underlying causes.
This is why a thorough diagnosis is necessary. Another common problem is a mechanic who catches one of the issues we mentioned earlier, fixes it, but doesn’t think to look for other related problems.
The good news is that this code doesn’t represent a problem that is going to get anyone hurt. That being said, the vehicle is probably going to be a bit of a challenge to drive (at best) until the problem is fixed.
Common repairs to clear the P0276 code include:
There’s a chance that wildlife may be responsible for this problem. If the owner lives in a cold environment, critters may crawl under the hood after the vehicle is parked to stay warm. Unfortunately, they also chew on wiring, so going forward, the automobile should be parked elsewhere.
YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.
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