P2323 OBD-II Trouble Code: Ignition Coil H Secondary Circuit

P2323 code definition

Ignition Coil H Secondary Circuit

What the P2323 code means

This trouble code indicates that the powertrain control module has detected a malfunction in the primary or secondary circuit in one or more of the ignition coils. These ignition coils receive a controlled and timed voltage from the powertrain control module in order to make the spark plugs fire.

What are the causes of the P2323 code?

Some potential causes of this trouble code would include:

• One or more of the ignition coils have failed.

• The wiring or connectors to one or more of the ignition coils have been damaged in some way.

• The powertrain control module is malfunctioning.

What are the symptoms of the P2323 code?

Symptoms that the driver of a vehicle with this trouble code may experience would include:

• The vehicle is hesitant or stumbles upon acceleration (misfire)

• The Check Engine Light will be illuminated

• This code may be associated with other trouble codes related to ignition coils or misfires

• In severe cases, the vehicle may not start

How does a mechanic diagnose the P2323 code?

A mechanic would begin to diagnose this trouble code by opening the hood and removing any engine covers that exist to gain access to the ignition coils and their circuitry. If any of the wiring appears to be damaged in any way, the mechanic would have to address this issue before moving forward. If all the wiring and connectors are okay, the ignition coils on the affected cylinders would be tested using the manufacturer’s suggested procedure.

The mechanic may also try to switch ignition coils around to see if the trouble code switches cylinders. If this happened, it would indicate that the coil is faulty. If the ignition coil turns out to be working correctly, the powertrain control module would then be tested using a high tech scan tool.

Once the diagnosis is complete, the mechanic would then relay their findings over to the customer to make a repair decision. This issue could involve multiple repairs. It is important not to assume that, if an issue is found, that this is the only issue involved with the code. For example, if wiring damage exists, this does not mean that an ignition coil is not faulty.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P2323 code

A common mistake that could be made by the mechanic choosing to take on this repair would be to replace the spark plugs. If the spark plugs were the only issue, a misfire code would exist instead of a code indicating a malfunction in the ignition circuit.

How serious is the P2323 code?

This code can be very serious as it will cause drivability issues. This code can cause a vehicle to run very poorly and potentially cause a vehicle to break down. Severe misfires for an extended period of time can cause permanent engine damage. I would recommend having this issue diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.

What repairs can fix the P2323 code?

Repairs that can fix this trouble code would include:

• Repairing or replacing wiring or connectors that are associated with the one or more ignition coils

• Replacing one or more ignition coils

• Replacing the powertrain control module

Additional comments regarding the P2323 code

Never put a repair like this on the back burner. A code like this should be considered the top priority on your automotive repair list. Running an engine with misfires for an extended period of time can cause damage to the catalytic converters as well as permanent engine damage.

Need help with a P2323 code?

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