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P2305

Ignition Coil B Secondary Circuit

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By
KBB Service Advisor
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Reviewed by
Gary Hardesty

What Is the P2305 Code?

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

The definition of code P2305 is “Ignition Coil B Secondary Circuit.” This section of the OBD-II trouble codes indicates problems with various ignition coils, including coils A to L. These codes indicate that the powertrain control module (PCM) or engine control module (ECM) has determined a problem with your ignition coil, and in the case of the P2305 code specifically, they have determined a problem with the “B” code. As a generic powertrain code, this code may appear in any OBD-II vehicle with an engine type that uses fuel as part of the power system.

More About Error Code P2305 Code

A vehicle with an internal combustion engine uses ignition coils to ignite the air/fuel mixture. These coils use specific timing standards to create continuous combustion, moving the vehicle forward instead of contributing to engine misfiring and stalling. When it comes to the P2305 code, it indicates that there’s a problem with the “secondary circuit” rather than the “primary circuit.” These “secondary circuit” problems are the wiring components that do not supply battery voltage to your coil, which may include components like the high-energy ignition boot, spark plug boot, and spark plug wires, as well as the transistors, which are called “drivers” in this system.

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What Are the Symptoms of a P2305 Code?

The most common symptoms of the P2305 code generally center around problems with the air/fuel mixture, as a malfunctioning engine coil may not be able to ignite the air/fuel mixture as effectively. For example, you may experience engine misfire, general diminished engine performance, and reduced fuel efficiency, and this can result in fuel economy problems. In some cases, the PCM may disable fuel injector operation for the B cylinder when logging this code, which can also create additional engine performance problems. It’s also common to see additional related codes with this engine code. Finally, the check engine light should also turn on.

What Are Some Causes of a P2305 Code?

Multiple possible causes are associated with the P2305 code, mostly because many different components are involved. Here are just a few causes that might result in this code:

  • Malfunctioning relay or blown fuse
  • Faulty spark plug wire or spark plug boot
  • Open or shorted wiring, electrical connections, or wiring harnesses
  • Faulty camshaft or crankshaft sensor or wiring
  • Defective ignition coil
  • PCM failure

While these are all potential causes of the P2305 code, they aren’t all equally likely. For example, PCM failure is uncommon, especially if this is your only code. However, it’s good to be aware of all these as you try to diagnose the problem.

How Serious Is the P2305 Code?

Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P2305 is very serious, as are most codes related to fuel ignition. Engine misfires and diminished engine performance can result in serious engine damage over time, and the more you drive with the code active, the more likely you are to see a severe problem result from this code, regardless of your current drivability symptoms. The ignition cylinders are important, even if the problem isn’t creating severe drivability concerns just yet, and you should make sure they’re all working.

Can I Still Drive with a P2305 Code?

The P2305 code rarely results in drivability problems severe enough to stop you from physically driving, like a no-start condition or Limp Mode. However, that doesn’t mean you should just keep driving with it active. Driving with the P2305 code active can cause severe engine damage, which is much more difficult and expensive to fix than the P2305 code itself. Plus, when you drive with the lowered fuel economy that you might be dealing with, you’re spending extra money on fuel. Stop driving when dealing with this code and get an expert’s help.

How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P2305 Code?

Because there are so many possible causes of code P2305, many of them existing in different vehicle systems, the diagnostic process of the P2305 code can be very difficult. You may need extra information about other diagnostic trouble codes happening in the vehicle and knowledge of vehicle systems related to the ignition coils. Whether you’re a very established DIYer or completely new to the process, an experienced mechanic at an automotive repair shop can help you determine the core problem you’re experiencing.

How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P2305 Code?

Inspection can be difficult in a similar way to diagnosis. To inspect the P2305 code, you’ll probably need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and reliable vehicle information, including technical service bulletins, repair guides, freeze frame data, and wiring diagrams, all of which can be difficult to access, especially for DIYers. A certified mechanic can help you understand the problem.

Need Additional Help with Your P2305 Code?

It’s very common to need extra help with the P2305 error code, and if you’re looking for an expert to help you with this problem, there are plenty of ways to get that help.

First, you should find an auto repair shop in your area. If you’re looking for help with a code that can result in damage when you drive with it, a local automobile repair shop is the best starting point.

Additional codes in your code scanner can give you more insight into your problems. The OBD-II database at KBB.com can help you understand these other codes.

P2305 Q&A

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