P0356
Fix within a few daysIgnition Coil 'F' Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction. This means your engine's computer (PCM) detected an issue with the electrical circuit that powers the ignition coil for cylinder #6.
Code P0356 means your engine's cylinder 6 ignition coil circuit has a problem. Common causes: Bad ignition coil (80%), wiring issues (15%). Drivability: Yes, for short trips, but fix quickly. Repair cost: $35-$120 DIY, $150-$350 professional.
Can I Drive With P0356?
Yes, for short trips only
Essential trips under 10 miles, avoid highways and heavy acceleration. Fix immediately.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing Check Engine Light (indicates severe misfire), loud knocking noises, burning smell, significant power loss.
Symptoms of P0356
- 1Check Engine Light is on, possibly flashing
- 2Engine misfires or runs rough
- 3Reduced engine power or acceleration
- 4Engine hesitation or stumbling
- 5Rough idle
- 6Poor fuel economy
Common Causes of P0356
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The ignition coil for cylinder #6 has failed internally, preventing it from generating the necessary spark.
80% of P0356 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring or connector to the cylinder #6 ignition coil prevents proper electrical signal.
15% of P0356 cases are fixed by repairing this wiring
A fouled, worn, or incorrectly gapped spark plug can cause the ignition coil to work harder and eventually fail, or it can be the primary cause of the misfire detected by the coil circuit.
4% of P0356 cases are fixed by replacing this part
A rare internal fault within the engine's computer can prevent it from properly controlling the cylinder #6 ignition coil.
1% of P0356 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the ignition coil and its connector for cylinder #6 for any cracks, burn marks, or corrosion.
- Ensure the coil connector is securely seated on the coil.
- Listen for any unusual ticking or sputtering sounds specifically from cylinder #6.
How to Diagnose P0356
- 1Visually inspect the ignition coil and wiring for cylinder #6 for any obvious damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- 2Swap the ignition coil from cylinder #6 with a coil from a different cylinder (e.g., cylinder #1). Clear the code and drive the vehicle. If the code changes to P0351 (Ignition Coil 'A' Malfunction), the coil is bad.
- 3If the code remains P0356 after swapping coils, check the spark plug for cylinder #6. Look for fouling, wear, or damage.
- 4Use a multimeter to test for proper voltage and ground at the ignition coil connector for cylinder #6. Check for continuity in the signal wire back to the PCM.
- 5If all other components check out, consider a professional diagnosis for PCM issues.
P0356 on Popular Vehicles
Ford F-150
2004-2024Ignition coil failures are common on F-150 V8 engines. Cylinder #6 is often accessible, making DIY replacement straightforward. Always check the spark plug at the same time.
85% fixed by replacing the ignition coil
Honda Accord
2003-2024Coil-on-plug systems on Honda Accords are reliable but coils do fail with age and mileage. P0356 typically points directly to the coil itself. Inspect the coil boot for cracks.
80% fixed by replacing the ignition coil
Toyota Camry
2007-2024Similar to other vehicles, P0356 on a Camry usually means a failed ignition coil. Access to cylinder #6 can vary depending on engine configuration (inline 4 vs V6).
78% fixed by replacing the ignition coil
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0356 mean?
P0356 indicates that your vehicle's Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected an electrical fault in the primary or secondary circuit of the ignition coil for cylinder #6. This means the coil isn't getting the correct signal or isn't producing the spark as expected.
Can I drive with P0356?
Yes, for short trips only. You can drive your vehicle for essential, short trips, but you must fix this code within a few days. Continued driving with a misfire can send unburned fuel into your catalytic converter, causing expensive damage.
Will P0356 clear itself?
No, P0356 will not clear itself. The underlying electrical fault or component failure needs to be addressed. Even if the Check Engine Light temporarily turns off, the problem is still present and will return.
How do I fix P0356 myself?
Start by visually inspecting the cylinder #6 ignition coil and its wiring. The most common fix is replacing the ignition coil for cylinder #6. You can confirm this by swapping the coil with another cylinder and seeing if the code moves. If not, check the spark plug for cylinder #6 and then the wiring.
How much does it cost to fix P0356?
A DIY fix for P0356 typically costs $35-$120, primarily for a new ignition coil and possibly a spark plug. If you take it to a professional shop, expect to pay $150-$350, which includes parts, labor, and diagnostic time.
P0356 keeps coming back - why?
If P0356 keeps returning, it means the root cause was not fully addressed. This often happens if you only replaced the coil but the issue was actually with the wiring harness, the spark plug, or a less common PCM fault. A thorough electrical diagnosis is needed.
Will P0356 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0356 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. A Check Engine Light, especially one related to an ignition system fault, is an automatic failure in states with emissions inspections.
What's the difference between P0356 and P0306?
P0356 specifically indicates an electrical circuit malfunction with the ignition coil for cylinder #6. P0306 indicates a general misfire detected in cylinder #6. A P0356 code will almost always cause a P0306 code, but a P0306 can be caused by other issues like a bad injector or low compression, not just the coil circuit.
P0356 on Ford F-150
On Ford F-150s, P0356 is a common code, especially on V8 engines with individual coil-on-plug designs. The most frequent cause is a failed ignition coil for cylinder #6. These coils are exposed to engine heat and vibration, leading to eventual failure. Replacing the coil and checking the spark plug usually resolves the issue.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you confirm the P0356 code by swapping the coil to another cylinder?
Good answer: Yes, we swapped the coil from cylinder #6 to cylinder #X, and the code followed, confirming the coil is faulty. We've also checked the spark plug and wiring.
What did you find when testing the wiring harness to the cylinder #6 coil?
Good answer: We tested the power, ground, and signal wires at the coil connector for cylinder #6 and confirmed they have proper voltage and continuity back to the PCM. The issue is not in the wiring.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$35-$120
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$150-$350
Save $115-$230 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
0.5-1.5 hours
Intermediate - requires basic hand tools and a multimeter for thorough diagnosis, but coil replacement itself is often simple.
Cost of Waiting
Continued misfires from a P0356 code send unburned fuel into your exhaust system. This unburned fuel overheats and damages your catalytic converter, turning a $35-$120 ignition coil job into a $800-$2,500 catalytic converter replacement.
While You're In There...
It's directly under the ignition coil and often contributes to coil failure or is a secondary symptom. Replacing it at the same time prevents repeat labor.
The rubber boot can crack or degrade, allowing spark to arc to the cylinder head instead of the spark plug. It's part of the coil assembly or easily replaced with it.
Applying dielectric grease to the coil boot helps seal out moisture and ensures a good electrical connection, preventing future issues.
Tools You'll Need
- Basic socket set
- Spark plug socket (if replacing plug)
- Torque wrench (for spark plug)
- Multimeter (for advanced diagnosis)
- Dielectric grease
P0356 is a 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: Visually inspect the ignition coil and wiring for cylinder #6. Look for any obvious damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
Step 2: Swap the ignition coil from cylinder #6 with a known good coil from another cylinder. Clear the code and drive. If the code moves to the new cylinder, replace the coil.
Step 3: If the code remains P0356 after swapping coils, remove and inspect the spark plug for cylinder #6. Replace if worn, fouled, or damaged.