Dealing with ignition coil primary circuit codes, such as PO351 through PO360, in your Ford vehicle can be a common issue. In this instructional guide, we will walk you through the diagnostic process for these codes, which are often related to wiring problems.
If you encounter these codes, you need to first identify which cylinder they correspond to. For example, PO351 corresponds to cylinder one, and PO353 corresponds to cylinder three. In Ford vehicles, the cylinder numbering goes from left to right, making it relatively easy to identify the problematic cylinder.
The first step in the diagnostic process is checking for a constant power supply to the ignition coil in question. This can be achieved by using a test light or a multimeter. The constant power supply is crucial for the proper functioning of the ignition coil.
Next, it’s essential to check the ground pulse side of the ignition coil. The ground pulse should be sent from the PCM to turn the ignition coil on. Using a test light or a noid light, you can verify if the ignition coil is receiving the necessary ground pulse.
If the power and ground pulse tests pass, the next step is to check the resistance of the coil. While the specific resistance values may vary depending on the vehicle, it’s important to ensure that there is no open circuit within the ignition coil.
If all the previous tests are inconclusive and the ignition coil is still malfunctioning, it may be necessary to inspect the wiring between the coil and the PCM. Any faults or interruptions in the wiring could lead to ignition coil issues.
In rare cases, if all other components and wiring check out, a faulty PCM could be the culprit. However, PCM failures are uncommon in Ford vehicles, and it’s essential to double-check all previous steps before considering a PCM replacement.
By following these diagnostic steps, you can effectively address ignition coil primary circuit codes in Ford vehicles. Remember to prioritize safety during testing and to consult vehicle-specific documentation for accurate resistance values and PCM pinouts.
Overall, diagnosing and fixing ignition coil issues requires meticulous testing and attention to detail, but with the right approach, it is possible to resolve these common electrical issues in Ford vehicles.
What are the common codes for ignition coil primary side issues in Fords?
The common codes for ignition coil primary side issues in Fords are po351 through po360. Each code corresponds to a specific cylinder, for example, po351 corresponds to cylinder one, po353 to cylinder three, and so on.
How can I check for constant power to the ignition coil?
To check for constant power to the ignition coil, with the key in the on position, the coil is disconnected, and a test light is connected to the battery negative. Then each pin on the coil is tested to ensure a constant power supply.
How can I check the ground pulse side of the ignition coil?
To check the ground pulse side of the ignition coil, a test light is moved over to the battery positive, ensuring a good connection, and the vehicle is started to observe the pulse. Additionally, an actual noid light can be used for a more accurate indication of the ground pulse.
What should I do if I’m not getting the expected pulse on the ground side?
If the pulse on the ground side is not as expected, the resistance of the coil should be checked. If everything else passes and a proper pulse is not observed, further inspection of the wiring between the coil and the PCM is necessary.
When should I consider a PCM issue?
Consider a PCM issue if all other factors are in order, and a proper ground pulse is still not present. However, it’s important to be thorough in testing, checking for continuity and potential harness issues before concluding a PCM problem.
What are the potential PCM concerns for ignition coil primary circuit codes?
PCM concerns for ignition coil primary circuit codes are not common, especially in Fords. While there have been issues in specific years and models, such as the fusions and escapes, PCM problems are generally rare for primary circuit codes in other models or years.