P0351: Ignition Coil A Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction
8 vehicles · 6 makes · $80-$1,000 repair
Most Reported On
P0351 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Ignition Coil A Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction.” P0351 indicates the engine computer found a fault in the primary or secondary circuit of ignition coil 'A' (typically the coil for cylinder 1 or the first coil in the firing system). The PCM monitors the coil's control circuit, and when the electrical feedback doesn't match what it expects during firing, it sets this code. Because the coil creates the high-voltage spark, this often causes a misfire, rough idle, hesitation, or loss of power. It is a circuit/component fault for one specific coil rather than a general engine problem. This code is most commonly reported on 2006-2009 Volkswagen Rabbit, 2008-2021 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2009-2021 Audi A4, plus 5 other vehicles, with repair costs ranging from $80 to $1,000.
Common Causes
Typical Repair Cost
Based on 8 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.
Diagnostic Tools
To diagnose P0351, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.
ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner
by ANCEL
A simple, affordable code reader that reads and clears check engine codes. Great for quick diagnostics on any OBD-II vehicle (1996+).
- Read & clear engine codes
- View freeze frame data
- I/M readiness status
- No batteries or app needed
BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner
by BlueDriver
Bluetooth OBD-II scanner with a free companion app. Provides enhanced diagnostics, smog readiness, and repair reports sourced from a database of verified fixes.
- Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
- Repair Reports with verified fixes
- Smog check readiness
- Free app (iOS & Android)
LAUNCH CRP123X OBD-II Scanner
by LAUNCH
A professional-grade handheld scanner that reads all four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.
- Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS diagnostics
- Live data stream & graphing
- AutoVIN for vehicle identification
- Free lifetime updates via Wi-Fi
Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool
by Autel
Shop-level diagnostic tablet with bi-directional control, active tests, and full system coverage. Ideal for serious DIYers and small shops.
- All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
- Bi-directional control & active tests
- Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
- 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
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Vehicles Affected (8)
FAQ
What does P0351 mean?
P0351 stands for "Ignition Coil A Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction." P0351 indicates the engine computer found a fault in the primary or secondary circuit of ignition coil 'A' (typically the coil for cylinder 1 or the first coil in the firing system). The PCM monitors the coil's control circuit, and when the electrical feedback doesn't match what it expects during firing, it sets this code. Because the coil creates the high-voltage spark, this often causes a misfire, rough idle, hesitation, or loss of power. It is a circuit/component fault for one specific coil rather than a general engine problem.
What are the most common causes of P0351?
The most common causes of P0351 are: Failed or weak ignition coil, Damaged or corroded coil connector or pigtail, Broken or shorted wiring in the coil control circuit, Loss of power feed or ground to the coil, Worn or fouled spark plug overloading the coil, Failed coil driver inside the PCM/ECM. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0351?
Repair costs for P0351 range from $80 to $1,000, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0351?
Au7o has documented P0351 across 8 vehicle models from 6 manufacturers: Audi, Honda, Kia, Peugeot, Pontiac, Volkswagen.
Sources (8)
- videoEricTheCarGuy - How to Diagnose and Replace Ignition Coils on VW Jetta 2.0T
- NHTSANHTSA Complaint #10406989
- NHTSANHTSA Vehicle Page for 2007 Honda Fit - includes complaints related to ignition coil and misfire issues
- videoYouTube - Replacing Ignition Coils on a Honda Fit (2007-2014) by ChrisFix
- ForumRepeated Coil Pack Failures (2000 206 1.4i petrol, three coil packs failed incl. aftermarket) — Peugeot Forums
- ForumPeugeot 206 1.4 05 petrol misfiring, dealership cannot find what's wrong — Peugeot Forums
- ForumPeugeot 206 2003 Coil Pack Failure — dealer-acknowledged known problem (Sagem vs Bougicord packs) — Honest John Back Room
- articleHow to diagnose a misfiring Peugeot 206 (1.4 KFW wasted-spark DIS case study) — Professional Motor Mechanic
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.