P0353
Fix within a few daysThe engine computer detected an electrical problem with the ignition coil circuit for cylinder #3.
Code P0353 means your engine's cylinder 3 ignition coil circuit has a problem. Common causes: Bad ignition coil (80%), wiring issues (15%). Drivability: Yes, for short trips only. Repair cost: $30-$200 DIY, $150-$400 professional.
Can I Drive With P0353?
Yes, for short trips only
Essential trips under 10 miles, avoid highways and heavy acceleration. Immediate repair needed.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing Check Engine Light, significant power loss, loud engine noises, or a strong rotten egg smell from the exhaust.
Symptoms of P0353
- 1Engine misfire or rough idle
- 2Reduced engine power and acceleration
- 3Engine hesitation or stumbling
- 4Check Engine Light is on, possibly flashing
- 5Decreased fuel economy
Common Causes of P0353
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The ignition coil for cylinder 3 is faulty and cannot properly generate or deliver spark.
80% of P0353 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring or connector to the cylinder 3 ignition coil prevents proper electrical signal.
15% of P0353 cases are fixed by repairing this wiring
A rare internal fault in the engine computer's ignition coil driver circuit can cause this code.
5% of P0353 cases are fixed by replacing or reprogramming the PCM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the ignition coil and its electrical connector on cylinder 3 for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- Ensure the spark plug wire (if applicable) is securely attached to the coil and spark plug.
How to Diagnose P0353
- 1Visually inspect the ignition coil and wiring for cylinder 3 for any obvious damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- 2Swap the ignition coil from cylinder 3 with a known good coil from another cylinder (e.g., cylinder 1). If the code moves to the new cylinder (e.g., P0351), the coil is bad.
- 3If the code does not move, use a multimeter to check for proper voltage and ground at the coil connector for cylinder 3.
- 4Check the resistance of the ignition coil's primary and secondary circuits, comparing to specifications or a known good coil.
- 5If wiring and coil test good, check the signal from the PCM to the coil using a scope or by verifying continuity back to the PCM.
P0353 on Popular Vehicles
Ford F-150
2004-2024Ford F-150s, particularly those with the 5.4L Triton engine, are prone to ignition coil failures. The coils are exposed to significant heat, leading to premature failure. Replacing the coil on cylinder 3 is a common fix.
85% fixed by replacing the ignition coil
Honda Accord
2003-2024Ignition coil failures are a common issue on Honda Accords across various generations. The coils can degrade over time, leading to misfires and P0353. Replacement is typically simple and resolves the issue.
80% fixed by replacing the ignition coil
Toyota Camry
2007-2024Toyota Camry models can experience P0353 due to a failing ignition coil. While generally reliable, coils are wear items. Diagnosis often involves swapping coils to confirm the faulty unit.
75% fixed by replacing the ignition coil
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0353 mean?
P0353 indicates that your vehicle's engine computer has detected an electrical fault in the primary or secondary circuit of the ignition coil for cylinder #3. This means the coil isn't getting the correct electrical signal or isn't producing spark properly.
Can I drive with P0353?
Yes, for short trips only. Driving with a P0353 code means your engine is misfiring on cylinder 3. While you can drive short distances, continued driving will damage your catalytic converter and reduce engine performance and fuel economy. Fix this within a few days.
Will P0353 clear itself?
No, P0353 will not clear itself. This code indicates a hard fault in an electrical circuit. The underlying issue, such as a bad ignition coil or wiring problem, must be repaired before the code will clear. Even if the Check Engine Light turns off temporarily, the problem is still present.
How do I fix P0353 myself?
Start by visually inspecting the ignition coil and its wiring for cylinder 3. If no obvious damage, swap the cylinder 3 coil with a coil from another cylinder. If the misfire or code follows the coil, replace the faulty ignition coil. If it doesn't, you'll need to check the wiring and connector for power and signal.
How much does it cost to fix P0353?
DIY repair for P0353 typically costs $30-$200, primarily for a new ignition coil. Professional repair at a shop will cost $150-$400, which includes the part and 1-2 hours of labor for diagnosis and replacement.
P0353 keeps coming back - why?
If P0353 keeps returning, it's likely that the initial diagnosis missed the true cause. Common reasons include a faulty wiring harness to the coil, a poor connection at the coil connector, or, in rare cases, an issue with the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) itself. Ensure you've thoroughly checked the wiring and not just replaced the coil.
Will P0353 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0353 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. A misfiring cylinder means unburned fuel is entering the exhaust, increasing harmful emissions. Additionally, the Check Engine Light being on is an automatic failure in most testing jurisdictions.
What's the difference between P0353 and P0303?
P0353 specifically indicates an electrical circuit malfunction with the ignition coil for cylinder #3. P0303 is a general misfire code for cylinder #3, meaning the engine computer detected a misfire but doesn't specify the cause. P0353 points directly to the coil's electrical function, while P0303 could be caused by a bad spark plug, fuel injector, or low compression, in addition to the ignition coil.
P0353 on Ford F-150?
P0353 is a common code on Ford F-150s, especially models with the 5.4L Triton engine. These engines are known for ignition coil failures, often due to heat or age. The repair typically involves replacing the specific ignition coil on cylinder 3, which is usually straightforward.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you confirm the P0353 code by swapping the cylinder 3 ignition coil with another cylinder's coil?
Good answer: Yes, we swapped the coil to cylinder 1, and the code changed to P0351, confirming the coil was bad. We then replaced the coil on cylinder 3.
What did you find when checking the wiring and connector to the cylinder 3 ignition coil?
Good answer: We checked the wiring for continuity and resistance, and confirmed proper voltage and ground at the connector. Everything tested good, pointing to the coil itself.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$30-$200
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$150-$400
Save $120-$200 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
beginner
Time
0.5-1.5 hours
Beginner-friendly - replacing an ignition coil is one of the simpler engine repairs, requiring basic hand tools and minimal mechanical experience.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0353 and the misfire will send unburned fuel into your exhaust system. This rapidly overheats and destroys your catalytic converter, turning a $30-$200 ignition coil fix into a $800-$2,500 catalytic converter replacement.
While You're In There...
If your spark plugs are due for replacement (typically every 30,000-100,000 miles), it makes sense to replace them when accessing the ignition coils, as they are often removed together. A worn spark plug can also stress an ignition coil.
Applying dielectric grease to the inside of the ignition coil boot helps prevent moisture intrusion and ensures a good electrical connection, extending the life of the coil and preventing future misfires.
Tools You'll Need
- Basic socket set
- Ratchet
- Extension
- Screwdriver (flathead or Phillips, depending on engine cover)
- Multimeter (for advanced diagnostics)
P0353 is a very common ignition system code. Most repairs are straightforward, involving a simple coil replacement, and your engine will run smoothly again afterward.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Locate cylinder 3's ignition coil. This is usually the third coil in sequence from the front of the engine.
Step 2: Disconnect the electrical connector and remove the coil. Swap it with a coil from a different cylinder (e.g., cylinder 1).
Step 3: Clear the code with a scan tool. Drive the vehicle. If the code changes to P0351 (or whatever cylinder you swapped to), replace the original cylinder 3 coil.