What Is the P0358 Code?
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The P0358 code is a fairly generic code that indicates that there was an issue with the ignition coil circuit for ignition coil H. This is coil #8. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or Engine Control Module (ECM) keeps track of all the various coils being used throughout the engine, and if it sees an issue with the eighth coil’s driver circuit, it will throw this code. It doesn’t indicate that there’s a mechanical problem with this individual coil, but just that the coil driver circuit has an open or short.
More About Error Code P0358
Ignition coils are an important component of how modern engines work. Instead of using spark plug wires, which are open wires and can be more dangerous, modern vehicles use a coil-on-plug ignition system, where the coil is placed directly above the spark plug, with wires running to the coil. There are at least two wires for every ignition coil. The first is the battery feed, while the second is the coil driver circuit connected to the PCM. To activate the coil, the PCM will ground the circuit, and it will also check for faults when it does so. If the PCM identifies a fault while planning to activate the coil so it can ignite the air/fuel mixture in the combustion chamber, it will set P0358, and in some engines, it might also disable the fuel injector going to that cylinder.
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What Are the Symptoms of a P0358 Code?
For many vehicles, the common symptom of the P0358 code is that the check engine light will turn on. This is partially because there are so many ignition coils. A single ignition coil having a circuit failure is not a critical failure, and the vehicle will continue running by design when this happens, rarely even seeing a loss of power. Occasionally, especially if this isn’t the only ignition coil having issues, you will see misfires more frequently, which can damage the engine. This may show up with engine hesitation and a rough idle, as well as engine knocking, engine pinging, or other noises you’re not used to hearing coming from the engine.
What Are Some Causes of a P0358 Code?
The most common cause of the P0358 fault code is a defective ignition coil or in some other way faulty ignition coil. If you have defective coils, they may not be able to ground properly, which will cause the PCM to recognize a fault in the coil and set code P0358. General issues with completing the circuit can also cause this code, such as a damaged wire in the system or a corroded connection within it, as well as a loose connection in the wiring harness. There may also be some kind of issue with the PCM, although in this case, the most common problem would simply be a required software update.
How Serious Is the P0358 Code?
When it first happens, the P0358 code is unlikely to be serious. You may not even notice it, outside of the check engine light turning on. However, it can turn into a serious problem over time. If the engine loses one of its ignition sources, its reliable performance will likely be impacted, raising the possibility of misfires happening more frequently. Those misfires can damage the engine. Always deal with these problems as early as you can to avoid potential damage to the engine.
Can I Still Drive with a P0358 Code?
The P0358 code should not prevent you from driving your car to your local automotive repair shop. However, if you know that your vehicle is throwing a P0358 code, you should not keep driving it just because it doesn’t seem to have any issues. One of the most common mistakes is assuming that just because it’s not a critical electrical connection, you can avoid getting attention for it. This bad coil can eventually lead to issues the more you drive it, so it’s best to avoid driving on it unnecessarily before you take it to a repair shop.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P0358 Code?
The P0358 code is a generic trouble code that you may experience on any OBD-II-equipped vehicle, which means that the diagnostic steps, as well as the repair steps for the problem, will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. If you don’t have a lot of experience with your specific vehicle, you probably shouldn’t try to diagnose it yourself, as this can be complicated and require some in-depth knowledge of what the vehicle’s ignition coils look like when they’re functioning properly.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P0358 Code?
As with the diagnostic process, the inspection process for this generic powertrain code is usually difficult for those without a lot of experience managing their specific vehicle. Not only does it need in-depth knowledge of the vehicle itself, but codes for coils may also need specialized tools that will help you determine what the problem is in the first place. It might be better to just get an expert to help.
Need Additional Help with Your P0358 Code?
Many people will end up opting for expert help with diagnostic trouble codes surrounding ignition coils. It may not be one of the more obvious faults, but the repair steps on your own can be tricky, and fixing it early is your best bet. If you’re looking for extra help, there are plenty of places to get it.
First of all, you can find auto repair shops in your area right here on KBB.com. This can make it much easier for you to get help fixing your problem, and our experts can also answer questions in general about your vehicle’s issues. Additionally, it’s also possible that this isn’t the only code you’re seeing. If you want more insight into other diagnostic codes, check the OBD-II codes database on KBB.com for more information.
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