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P1353

IC Output High Pulse Detected When Grounded Cyl 3.

  • GMC
  • Powertrain
  • Manufacturer code
  • Medium severity

How this code is built

P
SystemPowertrain
1
Defined byThe manufacturer
3
AreaIgnition system or misfire
53
FaultThe specific fault in that area

What it means

On GMC models, P1353 means the engine control module has detected a fault on the ignition control (IC) output circuit for cylinder 3. It saw a high pulse or signal on that circuit when it expected the line to be grounded, so the cylinder 3 coil drive is not behaving as commanded. The exact ignition layout (coil-on-plug, coil pack or distributor-based module) depends on the model and engine.

Symptoms

  • Engine misfire, usually felt as a rough or uneven idle
  • Malfunction indicator lamp on, possibly flashing under load
  • Hesitation or loss of power when accelerating
  • Hard starting or extended cranking
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Possible additional misfire codes stored for cylinder 3

Possible causes

  • Faulty ignition coil or ignition module for cylinder 3likely
  • Damaged, chafed or corroded wiring in the cylinder 3 ignition control circuit (short to voltage or open circuit)likely
  • Loose, corroded or pushed-out connector terminals at the coil or ignition modulelikely
  • Worn or incorrectly gapped spark plug on cylinder 3 putting excess load on the coilpossible
  • Poor ground connection for the ignition system or engine control modulepossible
  • Internal driver fault in the engine control modulerare

How to diagnose

  1. Read all stored and pending codes and note the freeze frame data (engine speed, load, temperature) to see when the fault occurs
  2. Check for related misfire codes, especially cylinder 3, and look at live misfire counts if the scan tool supports it
  3. Inspect the cylinder 3 coil, connector and wiring for damage, heat, chafing, oil contamination or water ingress
  4. Check the connector terminals for tightness, corrosion and spread pins
  5. Remove and inspect the cylinder 3 spark plug for wear, fouling, damage and correct gap
  6. Swap the cylinder 3 coil with another cylinder (where the design allows) and see whether the fault or misfire follows it
  7. Test the control circuit for short to voltage, open circuit and continuity to the control module, and check supply and ground against the manufacturer's wiring diagram
  8. Check ignition system grounds, and only consider the control module after all wiring and components have tested good

How to fix

  • Replace the faulty ignition coil or ignition module for cylinder 3
  • Repair or replace damaged wiring and fix any short to voltage or open circuit in the control circuit
  • Clean, repair or replace corroded or loose connectors and terminals
  • Replace worn or incorrectly gapped spark plugs to the specified type and gap
  • Clean and tighten ignition and control module ground connections
  • Repair or replace the engine control module only if confirmed faulty after all other tests

Can I keep driving?

Medium severity

The car can usually be driven a short distance to a workshop, but avoid heavy loads or long journeys. If the warning lamp flashes, reduce load and get it checked promptly, as continued misfires can overheat and damage the catalytic converter.

Guide written by AI from the code's definition. Confirm with a diagnosis before replacing parts.

This code for other makes

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