Skip to content

P0355

Powertrain
Moderate

Ignition Coil E Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction

Get Your FREE AI Diagnostic Report

Enter your vehicle for a personalized diagnosis for code P0355

P0355

Optional: Add your vehicle for more accurate diagnosis

The P0355 code signals a problem in the primary or secondary circuit of Ignition Coil E, which serves cylinder 5. This code only applies to engines with 5 or more cylinders, such as inline-5, V6, V8, V10, and similar configurations. The PCM has detected an electrical fault in the coil's control or feedback circuit.

On many V6 and V8 engines, the cylinder 5 coil is located on the rear bank, which can make access more difficult than the front cylinders. Depending on the vehicle, you may need to remove an engine cover, intake manifold components, or other accessories to reach it. This can increase labor costs at a shop, though it's still manageable for a patient DIYer.

As with all ignition coil circuit codes, perform the coil swap test first. Move the suspected coil to an accessible cylinder and see if the code follows. If the coil tests good, inspect the wiring harness carefully — the rear bank wiring on V-engines is exposed to more heat and is more prone to insulation damage. A flashing Check Engine light means active misfires are occurring, so minimize driving until the repair is completed to protect your catalytic converter.

Severity

Moderate — Address SoonThis Week

Symptoms

  • Engine misfires or runs rough
  • Check Engine light is on (may flash)
  • Vibration and roughness at idle
  • Reduced engine power
  • Exhaust smells of unburned fuel
  • Poor fuel economy

Likely Causes

Faulty ignition coil (Cylinder 5)45%

The ignition coil for cylinder 5 has failed internally due to heat exposure, insulation breakdown, or winding failure.

Damaged wiring or connector25%

The wiring or connector to the cylinder 5 coil has been damaged by heat, vibration, or corrosion, disrupting the primary circuit signal.

Worn or fouled spark plug15%

A worn spark plug on cylinder 5 is creating excessive secondary resistance, leading to coil stress and potential failure.

PCM driver circuit fault10%

The PCM's internal switching transistor for the cylinder 5 coil driver has failed.

Shared power or ground issue5%

A corroded common ground, blown fuse, or faulty ignition relay is affecting power delivery to the cylinder 5 coil.

Estimated Cost

DIY Repair

$25$90
Difficulty

DIY Friendly

Shop OBD2 scanners

Professional Repair

$100$350

Includes parts + labor

Common Fixes

  1. Replace the ignition coil for cylinder 5
  2. Replace the spark plug for cylinder 5
  3. Repair or replace damaged wiring and connectors
  4. Swap the coil with another cylinder to confirm diagnosis

Shop Parts

Videos

Causes and Fixes P0355 Code: Ignition Coil "E" Primary/Secondary Circuit

HVAC Mechanic

2016 Ford F250 6.2 Liter P0355 Diagnosis And Fix

Bearded Ford Tech

Related Codes

Still have questions P0355?