P1361: Ignition Control / TDC (Top Dead Center) Sensor Circuit, Intermittent Low Voltage (manufacturer-specific)
3 vehicles · 2 makes · $80-$600 repair
Most Reported On
P1361 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Ignition Control / TDC (Top Dead Center) Sensor Circuit, Intermittent Low Voltage (manufacturer-specific).” P1361 is a manufacturer-specific powertrain code. On Honda and Acura it indicates an intermittent interruption (or low voltage) in the Top Dead Center (TDC) sensor circuit, one of the crank/cam position sensors the ECM uses to time ignition and fuel injection. On some other makers it is referenced as an Ignition Control (IC) circuit low-voltage fault. Because this sensor is critical to engine timing, an intermittent fault can cause stalling and hard starting, and it often precedes the more severe 'no signal' code (P1362). This code is most commonly reported on 1994-2002 Honda Accord, 1992-1999 Honda Civic (DX, LX, EX, Si, HX, del Sol), and 1994-1999 Acura Integra, with repair costs ranging from $80 to $600.
Common Causes
Typical Repair Cost
Based on 3 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.
Diagnostic Tools
To diagnose P1361, 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+).
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- 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)
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- 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 (3)
FAQ
What does P1361 mean?
P1361 stands for "Ignition Control / TDC (Top Dead Center) Sensor Circuit, Intermittent Low Voltage (manufacturer-specific)." P1361 is a manufacturer-specific powertrain code. On Honda and Acura it indicates an intermittent interruption (or low voltage) in the Top Dead Center (TDC) sensor circuit, one of the crank/cam position sensors the ECM uses to time ignition and fuel injection. On some other makers it is referenced as an Ignition Control (IC) circuit low-voltage fault. Because this sensor is critical to engine timing, an intermittent fault can cause stalling and hard starting, and it often precedes the more severe 'no signal' code (P1362).
What are the most common causes of P1361?
The most common causes of P1361 are: Failing TDC/CMP sensor inside the distributor (Honda/Acura), Worn or aging distributor with internal sensor wear, Wiring or connector faults to the sensor, Heat-related intermittent sensor dropout, Ignition control (IC) circuit fault (some makes), Poor ground or loose electrical connections, Faulty PCM/ECM (less common). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P1361?
Repair costs for P1361 range from $80 to $600, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P1361?
Au7o has documented P1361 across 3 vehicle models from 2 manufacturers: Acura, Honda.
Sources (7)
- ForumTroubleshooting a No Spark Problem in Honda Accord
- ForumDesperate for help w/ 1994 Accord starting/stalling - Honda Accord Forum
- ForumHonda Civic Distributor: A Guide for 1992-2000 Models
- ForumWhat are the symptoms of a bad distributor, coil, igniter - Honda-Tech
- articleHow To Test Misfire Codes (1995-2000 1.6L Honda Civic)
- ForumAnatomy of a B-series Distributor — Team Integra Forums
- ForumAcura Integra - distributor, no start (SOLVED) - Car Talk Community
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.