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P1351

IDM Input Circuit Malfunction/ Ignition Coil Control

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By
KBB Service Advisor
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Reviewed by
Gary Hardesty

What Is the P1351 Code?

Symptoms
Causes
Seriousness
Can I Still Drive?
Diagnose
Difficulty of Inspecting
Get Additional Help

The P1351 code generally indicates issues with an abnormal voltage within the Ignition Control Module (ICM) or Ignition Diagnostic Monitor (IDM). The process of the ICM or IDM is very complex, but the most important component to note is that it reacts to the engine data to send a signal that ensures combustion happens at the right time. This diagnostic code indicates an issue with the ability to regulate this timing.

More About the P1351 Code

This is a manufacturer-specific code, which means that the description of this code will be different for every individual manufacturer. Here are a few of the descriptions you’ll see:

  • Buick, Cadillac, Citroen, Chevrolet, GMC, GM, Isuzu, Oldsmobile, Peugeot, Pontiac, Volvo: Ignition control module (ICM) ignition control circuit, voltage high
  • Audi, Volkswagen: Camshaft position (CMP) sensor
  • Lexus, Toyota: Variable valve timing sensor – RH bank – range/performance problem
  • Daewoo, Hyundai, Mini: Misfire circuit
  • Kenworth, Peterbilt: VGT data unreliable fault detected
  • Dodge, Freightliner: Mass air flow (MAF) sensor -circuit performance

Remember to check the specific needs of your make and model to fix this problem rather than relying on a general piece of information.

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What Are the Symptoms of a P1351 Code?

Symptoms of this fault code often have to do with the unstable operation of the engine. Once the engine reaches operating temperature, it may start behaving erratically, suddenly turning off, operating in an unstable manner, and even sometimes refusing to start if it hasn’t cooled down all the way. The check engine light will also turn on.

What Are Some Causes of a P1351 Code?

There are many possible issues related to the P1351 code. The crankshaft position sensor (CKP sensor) or camshaft position sensor (CMP sensor) may be damaged, causing them to report inconsistent pieces of information to the ICM. The engine battery may also not be charged, creating inconsistencies and abnormal voltage. You may also be experiencing issues with the wiring anywhere within the ignition sensors.

How Serious Is the P1351 Code?

The P1351 code can cause very serious driveability concerns. It may cause your vehicle to randomly shut off, not respond as effectively to your controls, and have issues with idling. Additionally, this code has to do with a critical component of your vehicle, and if you just allow it to continue happening, you run the risk of further damaging your engine, which can be much more expensive and difficult to fix. Instead of ignoring this code, talk to an expert to fix it.

Can I Still Drive with a P1351 Code?

The P1351 code can cause very serious driveability concerns. It may cause your vehicle to randomly shut off, not respond as effectively to your controls, and have issues with idling. Additionally, this code has to do with a critical component of your vehicle, and if you just allow it to continue happening, you run the risk of further damaging your engine, which can be much more expensive and difficult to fix. Instead of ignoring this code, talk to an expert to fix it.

How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P1351 Code?

The diagnostic process for a P1351 code is often fairly difficult. If the issue is with the battery, then you might be able to fix it on your own simply by charging the battery, but if the issue is anything else, chances are that you’ll need at least some knowledge of your vehicle’s proper function to fix it. That means if you’re not a well-experienced DIYer, you should probably take the issue to your local repair shop.

How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P1351 Code?

The diagnostic process for a P1351 code is often fairly difficult. If the issue is with the battery, then you might be able to fix it on your own simply by charging the battery, but if the issue is anything else, chances are that you’ll need at least some knowledge of your vehicle’s proper function to fix it. That means if you’re not a well-experienced DIYer, you should probably take the issue to your local repair shop.

Need Additional Help with Your P1351 Code?

For the most part, you’ll need professional help with your P1351 code. This can be a very complex code, and most people will need to consult an expert to figure out what’s wrong and how to fix it.

Instead of doing this in your home and potentially causing even more damage to your engine, you can find a repair shop in your area to give you more assistance with your issue. No matter what the problem is, including whether this is the only code you’re seeing, or there are others, a local repair shop can figure out the problem and fix it for you.

It’s also important to check out the OBD-II database if you’re interested in learning more about other codes. It’s common for a problem to manifest with more than one OBD code, and the database can be a great way to check out these other codes and learn more about the problems that you might be seeing in your vehicle.

 

P1351 Q&A

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