P0352 Code (Symptoms, Causes, and How to Fix)
Are you facing a P0352 code and unsure what to do next? Fearing a costly repair bill? This ignition system issue is fairly common and not too difficult to diagnose and find the solution.
Keep reading as we go over what exactly this trouble code means, common causes (there are only a few), how to fix it, and whether you can continue driving while you wait for that repair date.
What Does Code P0352 Mean?
Diagnostic fault code P0352 relates to a detected abnormality within the intelligent driver or spark-emitting portion of an engine’s #2 coil pack.
Naturally, this fault is generally specific to vehicles featuring a COP (coil-on-plug) ignition system. Based upon programmed logic, a vehicle’s control software rationalizes that the #2 COP is inactive or offline whenever it detects abnormal readings from that specific ignition coil
DTC P0352 is typically recorded and logged whenever a vehicle’s ECM/PCM detects abnormal feedback, in the form of reduced voltage drop, or amperage irregularities across the #2 coil when commanded to fire. As such, an active fault is logged, and freeze-frame data is stored.
Certain vehicles are also programmed to deactivate the #2 fuel injector when fault P0352 is logged.
Related: DTC P0351 (#1 Ignition Coil)
Symptoms of Code P0352
Diagnostic fault code P0352, when active, is known to be associated with several underlying symptoms of varying severity. These symptoms, at times, can prove rather troubling to contend with, though logging of DTC P0352 without the occurrence of any secondary symptoms is not unheard of.
- Illuminated check engine light
- Reduced performance under load
- Rough of erratic idle
- Potential smell of “rich” exhaust
- Reduced fuel economy
Causes of Code P0352
The logging of diagnostic fault code P0352 can be attributed to a host of potential underlying issues, the bulk of which relate to malfunctions within the ignition circuit itself. However, additional causes for DTC P0352 do exist, especially when other non-cylinder specific faults are logged as well.
- Faulty #2 ignition coil
- Wiring or connectivity issues relating to the #2 ignition coil
- Failed or fouled spark plug
- Compromised ECM or PCM
Is Code P0352 Serious?
Generally speaking, diagnostic fault code P0352 is considered to be moderate, in terms of severity. While a fault of this nature is unlikely to leave you stranded or prevent your vehicle from starting altogether, it certainly warrants further examination, diagnosis, and repair.
In extreme cases, if ignored for prolonged periods of time, an active P0352 fault can result in secondary mechanical issues.
In most cases, diagnostic fault code P0352 directly correlates to cylinder #2 misfires. This misfire is likely to prove noticeable when the engine is under load, though it can also lead to erratic or rough idle as well, under certain circumstances.
You might also notice that your vehicle loses a certain degree of fuel efficiency when operating with an active P0352 fault.
No matter the case, you’ll want to diagnose and repair the root cause of DTC P0352 as soon as possible. Doing so will not only return your vehicle’s engine to maximum efficiency, but also prevent possible catalyst damage related to the downstream dosing of unburnt fuel.
If you do not feel comfortable tackling repairs of this nature on your own, consider scheduling an appointment with a reputable service center at the first opportunity.
Read Also: Difference Between an Ignition Coil and Coil Pack
How to Fix Code P0352
The steps below can be used to assist in diagnosing and repairing the root cause of your vehicle’s offending P0352 fault. As with most code related issues, it’s a good idea to secure a copy of your vehicle’s factory-specific service manual, for additional information pertaining to the repair of this issue, as published by the vehicle’s manufacturer.
#1 – Check For Additional DTCs
Before beginning the diagnostic process, check for the presence of additional diagnostic fault codes. Any such fault codes that are recorded, should be thoroughly diagnosed in order of priority, before proceeding.
Multiple cylinder-specific misfire codes would indicate a broader issue, likely relating to the vehicle’s COP driver or control module.
#2 – Visually Inspect Coil Pack & Wiring
In the event that no additional fault codes are recorded, a careful inspection of the #2 coil pack and related wiring will be required.
Carefully inspect the coil pack for signs of damage or water intrusion. It is also advisable to remove the engine’s #2 spark plug, in order to perform a visual inspection. Additionally, all wiring related to this coil pack should also be inspected for signs of damage.
#3 – Check Coil Pack Resistance
If no obvious cause for concern is identified during a visual inspection, the #2 coil pack’s internal resistance should be verified, to make sure that it’s in range. Readings outside of those specified by the vehicle’s manufacturer will necessitate replacement.
#4 – Verify Coil Ground/Actuation Feed
Next, you must verify that a reliable ground feed is present at the coil pack in question and that a properly timed actuation feed is being supplied by the vehicle’s ECM/PCM. In most cases, this actuation feed is recorded in “Hertz”.
If both signals are present, yet no firing of the coil pack occurs, replacement of the #2 coil pack will be required. If no ground feed or actuation pulse is identified, further diagnosis of the COP driver circuit will be necessitated.
Therefore, you must first identify the manner in which your vehicle’s coil packs are energized before accurate system diagnosis can be conducted.
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