P0355
Ignition Coil E Primary Control Circuit/Open
Ignition coil
Generic OBD-II
High
What it means
P0355 means the engine computer has detected an open or fault in the primary control circuit of ignition coil 'E' (the fifth coil). If that coil stops firing its cylinder, the engine misfires and loses power. It usually points to a wiring or connector problem at the coil, or a failed coil.
High
Can I keep driving? Usually drivable but the affected cylinder may not fire, causing a misfire — extended driving with a dead cylinder can damage the catalytic converter, so repair it promptly.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on (may flash if the cylinder is misfiring)
- Rough idle, shaking, or a noticeable miss
- Reduced power and hesitation on acceleration
- Increased fuel consumption
Common causes
Most likely first
- Failed ignition coil 'E'Likely
- Open or shorted coil primary control (driver) circuit wiringCommon
- Loose or corroded connector at the coilCommon
- Faulty coil driver in the ECM/ignition module (rare)Less often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Read freeze-frame data and inspect the coil 'E' connector and wiring for damage, corrosion, or a loose pin.
- Swap coil 'E' with a neighbouring coil; if the fault follows the coil, replace it.
- Check the primary control circuit for opens/shorts back to the ECM or ignition module.
- Confirm power and ground at the coil, then clear and re-test.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P0355?+
Only briefly. If the cylinder isn't firing the engine will misfire, and a sustained misfire can overheat and damage the catalytic converter.
Can I just clear P0355?+
You can, but it returns until the coil or its control circuit is repaired.
Related codes
Often seen with P0355
Read & clear P0355 yourself
Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.
✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX