P0357
Fix within a few daysThe engine computer detected an electrical problem with the ignition coil circuit for cylinder #7.
Code P0357 means cylinder 7 ignition coil circuit has a fault. Common causes: Ignition coil (70%), spark plug (15%), wiring (10%). Drivability: Yes, for short trips, but fix quickly. Repair cost: $30-$120 DIY, $150-$400 professional.
Can I Drive With P0357?
Yes, for short trips only
Essential trips under 10 miles, avoid highways and heavy acceleration. Fix within a few days.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing Check Engine Light, loud engine noises, burning smell, significant power loss, or engine stalling.
Symptoms of P0357
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Engine misfires or runs rough
- 3Engine idles poorly or shakes
- 4Reduced engine power
- 5Poor fuel economy
- 6Engine may hesitate or stumble during acceleration
Common Causes of P0357
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The ignition coil for cylinder #7 has failed internally, preventing proper spark delivery.
70% of P0357 cases are fixed by replacing this part
A fouled, worn, or damaged spark plug on cylinder #7 can cause the ignition coil to overwork and trigger a circuit fault.
15% of P0357 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Damaged wires, a loose connection, or corrosion in the wiring harness or connector to ignition coil #7 disrupts the electrical circuit.
10% of P0357 cases are fixed by repairing this part
A rare internal fault in the engine computer's driver circuit for cylinder #7's ignition coil can cause this code.
5% of P0357 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the ignition coil and electrical connector for cylinder #7 for any obvious damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- Swap the ignition coil from cylinder #7 with a known good coil from another cylinder. Clear the code and see if the misfire or P035X code moves to the new cylinder location. This confirms if the coil is bad.
How to Diagnose P0357
- 1Visually inspect ignition coil #7 and its electrical connector for any obvious damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- 2Swap ignition coil #7 with a coil from a different cylinder (e.g., cylinder #1) and clear the code. If the code changes to P0351 (Ignition Coil A Circuit Malfunction), the coil is faulty.
- 3Remove and inspect spark plug #7 for fouling, wear, or damage. Replace if necessary.
- 4Using a multimeter, check for proper voltage supply and ground at the ignition coil #7 connector.
- 5Test the continuity and resistance of the wiring between the ignition coil #7 connector and the engine computer.
P0357 on Popular Vehicles
Ford F-150
2004-2024P0357 on Ford F-150s, particularly V8 models, is frequently due to a failing ignition coil. The coil-on-plug design makes replacement straightforward.
75% fixed by replacing the ignition coil
Honda Accord
2003-2024Honda Accord models, especially 4-cylinder engines, often experience ignition coil failures that trigger P0357. Inspect the coil boot for cracks or oil contamination.
70% fixed by replacing the ignition coil
Toyota Camry
2007-2024For Toyota Camry, P0357 is a common indicator of a faulty ignition coil. Ensure the spark plug is also in good condition, as a worn plug can contribute to coil failure.
65% fixed by replacing the ignition coil
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0357 mean?
P0357 indicates the engine's computer has detected an electrical problem within the primary or secondary circuit of the ignition coil for cylinder #7. This means the computer is not seeing the correct electrical signal from or to that specific coil.
Can I drive with P0357?
Yes, you can drive for short, essential trips, but fix this code quickly. Continued driving with a misfire sends unburned fuel into your exhaust, which can severely damage your catalytic converter. Stop driving immediately if the Check Engine Light is flashing, as this indicates a severe misfire.
Will P0357 clear itself?
No, P0357 will not clear itself. The engine computer stores this code because it detects a persistent electrical fault. You must diagnose and repair the underlying issue for the code to clear, or clear it manually with an OBD-II scanner after the repair.
How do I fix P0357 myself?
Start by visually inspecting the ignition coil and connector for cylinder #7. If no obvious damage, swap the coil with another cylinder's coil. If the code moves, replace the ignition coil for cylinder #7. If the code stays, inspect and replace the spark plug for cylinder #7. Check the wiring harness for damage or corrosion if the coil and plug are good.
How much does it cost to fix P0357?
DIY repair costs for P0357 are typically $30-$120, primarily for a new ignition coil and potentially a spark plug. Professional repair at a shop usually costs $150-$400, covering diagnosis and replacement of the faulty coil or spark plug.
P0357 keeps coming back - why?
If P0357 keeps returning, it indicates the initial repair did not address the root cause. This often happens if the wiring harness to the coil is intermittently faulty, the spark plug was overlooked, or in rare cases, the engine computer itself has a problem. Double-check all connections and consider a more thorough electrical diagnosis.
Will P0357 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0357 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. A misfire directly impacts exhaust emissions, and the illuminated Check Engine Light is an automatic failure in states with inspection programs.
What's the difference between P0357 and P0307?
P0357 specifically indicates an electrical circuit malfunction with the ignition coil for cylinder #7. P0307 indicates a general misfire detected on cylinder #7. P0357 is a more specific code that points directly to the ignition coil's electrical system as the cause of a misfire on cylinder #7.
P0357 on Ford F-150?
On Ford F-150 trucks, P0357 is commonly caused by a failing ignition coil on cylinder #7. These trucks use coil-on-plug designs, and coils can degrade over time, especially with high mileage. Always check the spark plug at the same time, as a worn plug can stress the coil.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you confirm the code moves with the coil swap, or did you test the coil directly?
Good answer: Yes, I swapped the coil from cylinder #7 with cylinder #1. The code then changed to P0351, confirming the coil was bad. I also checked the spark plug for cylinder #7 and it looked good.
What did you find when you inspected the wiring harness and connector for coil #7?
Good answer: I checked the wiring for continuity and resistance, and inspected the connector for corrosion or damage. Everything looked solid, so the issue is internal to the coil itself.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$30-$120
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$150-$400
Save $120-$280 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
0.5-1.5 hours
Intermediate - requires basic mechanical skills, an OBD-II scanner, and potentially a multimeter for electrical testing. Identifying cylinder #7 and safely working with electrical components is key.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0357 and the associated misfire sends unburned fuel into your exhaust system. This rapidly overheats and damages your catalytic converter, turning a $30-$100 ignition coil fix into a $800-$2,500 catalytic converter replacement.
While You're In There...
If you're replacing one spark plug, it's smart to replace the entire set. Spark plugs wear at a similar rate, and replacing them all at once prevents future misfires on other cylinders and ensures consistent engine performance.
Apply dielectric grease to the inside of the ignition coil boot before reinstallation. This prevents moisture intrusion, improves electrical connection, and makes future removal easier.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II scanner
- Socket wrench set
- Spark plug socket (specific size for your vehicle)
- Torque wrench
- Flathead screwdriver (for clips)
- Dielectric grease
- Multimeter (for advanced diagnostics)
P0357 is a common ignition system code. Most repairs involve replacing a single ignition coil or spark plug, which is a straightforward fix that will get your engine running smoothly again.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Visually inspect the ignition coil and connector for cylinder #7. Look for frayed wires, corrosion, or cracks on the coil body.
Step 2: If no obvious issues, swap the ignition coil from cylinder #7 with a coil from a different cylinder. Clear the code with an OBD-II scanner. If the code changes to a different cylinder (e.g., P0351 if you swapped with cylinder #1), replace the original coil from cylinder #7.
Step 3: If swapping the coil does not move the code, remove and inspect the spark plug for cylinder #7. Replace it if it's fouled, worn, or damaged. If the spark plug looks good, you will need to test the wiring harness to the coil for continuity and proper voltage.