P0361 – OBD-II DTC

OBD-II DTC P0361 – Ignition Coil J Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction

DTC P0361 meaning

DTC P0361 refers to a malfunction in the ignition coil J primary/secondary circuit. This code indicates that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected an issue with the ignition coil’s performance, which is responsible for generating the high voltage needed to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine’s cylinders. The “J” designation typically refers to a specific ignition coil in a multi-coil setup.

DTC P0361 symptoms

Common symptoms associated with DTC P0361 may include:

• Engine misfires
• Rough idling
• Decreased engine performance
• Increased fuel consumption
• Check Engine Light (CEL) illuminated

DTC P0361 causes

Several factors can lead to the triggering of DTC P0361, including:

• Faulty ignition coil J
• Wiring issues or damaged connectors in the ignition circuit
• Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)
• Short circuits or open circuits in the ignition coil circuit
• Corrosion or poor connections in the ignition system

DTC P0361 seriousness

DTC P0361 is considered a serious issue as it can lead to engine misfires, which may cause further damage to the engine over time. If left unaddressed, it can result in poor engine performance, increased emissions, and potential failure of other engine components. It is advisable to diagnose and repair the issue promptly to maintain optimal engine function.

How to diagnose DTC P0361

To diagnose DTC P0361, follow these steps:

1. Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of the P0361 code.
2. Inspect the ignition coil J and its wiring for any visible damage or corrosion.
3. Check the resistance of the ignition coil using a multimeter to ensure it is within specifications.
4. Test the voltage supply to the ignition coil while the engine is running.
5. Examine the ECM for any signs of malfunction or error codes related to the ignition system.

How to fix DTC P0361 step-by-step instructions

To fix DTC P0361, follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Disconnect the battery to ensure safety while working on the ignition system.
2. Inspect and repair any damaged wiring or connectors associated with ignition coil J.
3. If the ignition coil J is faulty, replace it with a new one.
4. Reconnect the battery and clear the DTC using an OBD-II scanner.
5. Start the engine and monitor for any reoccurrence of the P0361 code.

How to erase DTC P0361

To erase DTC P0361, follow these steps:

1. Connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port.
2. Turn on the ignition without starting the engine.
3. Navigate to the “Erase Codes” or “Clear DTCs” option on the scanner.
4. Confirm the action to clear the codes from the ECM.
5. Disconnect the scanner and start the engine to ensure the code does not return.

Recommended tools for OBD-II diagnostics

Explore our expert picks: The Best OBD2 Scanners for 2025

Easy-to-use Multimeter for reliable diagnostics: AstroAI Auto-ranging Multimeter

Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. This helps us keep our DTC database up to date and provide valuable content for free. We only recommend products that we have tested and believe to be the best in their class.