P0353: Ignition Coil C Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction
7 vehicles · 5 makes · $80-$1,000 repair
Most Reported On
P0353 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Ignition Coil C Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction.” This is an ignition/engine code. An ignition coil converts the battery's low voltage into the high voltage needed to create a spark at the plug. P0353 means the engine computer detected a fault in the primary or secondary circuit of ignition coil 'C' — the expected feedback when the coil is commanded to fire is missing or abnormal. Typical effects are a misfire, rough idle, hesitation, or loss of power, and a prolonged misfire can overheat and damage the catalytic converter. This code is most commonly reported on 2006-2009 Volkswagen Rabbit, 2008-2021 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2009-2021 Audi A4, plus 4 other vehicles, with repair costs ranging from $80 to $1,000.
Common Causes
Typical Repair Cost
Based on 7 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.
Diagnostic Tools
To diagnose P0353, 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 (7)
FAQ
What does P0353 mean?
P0353 stands for "Ignition Coil C Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction." This is an ignition/engine code. An ignition coil converts the battery's low voltage into the high voltage needed to create a spark at the plug. P0353 means the engine computer detected a fault in the primary or secondary circuit of ignition coil 'C' — the expected feedback when the coil is commanded to fire is missing or abnormal. Typical effects are a misfire, rough idle, hesitation, or loss of power, and a prolonged misfire can overheat and damage the catalytic converter.
What are the most common causes of P0353?
The most common causes of P0353 are: Failed ignition coil 'C', Damaged wiring or corroded connector at the coil, Open or short in the coil primary/secondary circuit, Worn or fouled spark plug adding load to the coil, Poor power or ground supply to the coil, Faulty ignition driver in the ECM (less common). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0353?
Repair costs for P0353 range from $80 to $1,000, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0353?
Au7o has documented P0353 across 7 vehicle models from 5 manufacturers: Audi, Honda, Kia, Pontiac, Volkswagen.
Sources (4)
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.