Diagnostic trouble code P1350 is a manufacturer-specific powertrain fault code. Because it is manufacturer-specific, its exact definition depends entirely on the vehicle make, model, and application.
Exact vehicle application must be verified before diagnosis. The code identifies a detected condition in a specific subsystem, but further testing is required to identify the root cause.
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Key Takeaways
- P1350 is a manufacturer-specific code, meaning its definition varies between automakers like General Motors, Toyota, and Volkswagen.
- On GM applications, it indicates an ignition control system or ignition control module circuit fault.
- On Toyota and Lexus applications, it points to a variable valve timing sensor circuit malfunction on bank 2.
- On VW and Audi applications, it indicates an ignition amplifier or primary circuit 3 open circuit.
- Diagnosis requires verifying the exact factory definition and testing the relevant ignition or VVT components.
P1350 Code Description and Implications
Because P1350 is manufacturer-specific, there is no single universal definition. This trouble code identifies a detected condition, but the exact monitored system depends on the vehicle make and model.
Some General Motors applications: P1350 indicates an “Ignition Control System” or “Ignition Control Module” circuit fault, meaning the module detects an issue with the ignition control bypass or reference circuits.
Certain Toyota and Lexus applications: P1350 indicates a “VVT Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2),” pointing to an issue with the right bank variable valve timing sensor signal.
Some Volkswagen and Audi applications: P1350 indicates an “Ignition Amplifier Primary Circuit 3 Open Circuit,” relating to an electrical break in the ignition coil control circuit.
Common Causes of the P1350 Code
The underlying cause depends entirely on the verified factory definition for the specific vehicle application.
For GM applications, possible causes include a failing ignition control module, damaged wiring to the ignition coils, or poor electrical connections at the module harness.
For Toyota and Lexus applications, causes may involve a failing bank 2 VVT sensor, damaged sensor wiring, or issues with the oil control valve affecting VVT operation.
For VW and Audi applications, causes can include an open circuit in the ignition coil wiring harness, a failing ignition coil, or a faulty ignition control module.
Symptoms Associated With P1350
Symptoms vary widely depending on the underlying system fault and the vehicle manufacturer.
On GM applications with an ignition control fault, symptoms can include engine stalling, a no-start condition, or severe misfires across multiple cylinders.
On Toyota applications with a VVT sensor fault, symptoms may include rough idling, decreased engine performance, and an illuminated Check Engine Light.
On VW and Audi applications, symptoms can include a severe misfire on the affected cylinders, hesitation during acceleration, and limp mode activation.
Diagnosing the P1350 Trouble Code
Diagnosis must begin by confirming the exact factory definition for the specific make, model, and year.
For GM applications, technicians inspect the ignition control module wiring for opens or shorts, test the module reference signals, and verify the ignition coil primary circuits.
For Toyota applications, technicians test the bank 2 VVT sensor resistance and signal circuits, and inspect the oil control valve for proper operation.
For VW and Audi applications, technicians test the ignition coil primary circuit 3 for continuity, inspect the wiring harness, and verify the ignition amplifier output.
Repairing the P1350 Issue
Repairs must follow confirmed diagnosis based on the specific vehicle application.
If an ignition control module fault is confirmed on a GM application, the module or damaged wiring must be replaced or repaired.
If a VVT sensor fault is confirmed on a Toyota, the bank 2 VVT sensor or oil control valve must be replaced.
If an ignition amplifier open circuit is confirmed on a VW or Audi, the damaged wiring must be repaired or the ignition coil replaced.
Cost Considerations for P1350 Repairs
Cost depends on diagnostic time, component accessibility, required parts, programming requirements, and labor.
Replacing an ignition coil or VVT sensor may require minimal labor depending on accessibility.
Conversely, replacing an ignition control module and performing the required module adaptations requires specialized equipment and significant labor.
Prevention Strategies for Future Occurrences
Some electrical and mechanical failures cannot be reliably prevented.
For applications using variable valve timing, performing regular oil changes with the correct oil viscosity helps prevent sludge from binding the VVT components and sensors.
Inspecting exposed wiring harnesses for chafing or heat damage can help prevent intermittent circuit faults in the ignition or sensor systems.
Troubleshooting Tips and Best Practices
Never assume P1350 is a universal ignition code. Always verify the exact definition for the specific vehicle before purchasing parts.
Do not ignore related codes. A VVT sensor fault may appear alongside other camshaft position sensor codes, while an ignition fault may appear alongside specific cylinder misfire codes.
Check for technical service bulletins applicable to your exact vehicle application, as manufacturers frequently release updated sensors or revised wiring harnesses for recurring faults.
More OBD-II Codes
| P1344 | P1352 | P0300 | P0171 |
| P1345 | P1353 | P0340 | P0174 |
| P1346 | P1354 | P0335 | P0420 |
| P1347 | P1355 | P0011 | P0430 |
| P1348 | P1356 | P0101 | P1108 |
| P1349 | P1357 | P0111 | P1109 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is P1350 a generic or manufacturer-specific code?
No. P1350 is a manufacturer-specific code. Its exact definition varies significantly between automakers, so the factory service information for the specific vehicle must be consulted.
Can I drive my car with a P1350 code?
It depends on the application. If P1350 indicates an ignition control fault, the engine may stall or fail to start. If it is a VVT sensor fault, performance may be reduced.
Will disconnecting the battery clear the P1350 code?
Disconnecting the battery may temporarily clear the code, but it does not repair the underlying electrical or mechanical fault. The code will return once the monitor runs again.
Can low oil cause a P1350 code?
On Toyota applications monitoring the VVT system, low or degraded engine oil can prevent the variable valve timing system from operating correctly, potentially contributing to sensor faults.
Does P1350 always mean the ignition control module is bad?
No. While a failing module is a cause on specific GM applications, the code can also indicate damaged wiring, a failing VVT sensor, or an open ignition coil circuit.
What Should You Do About the P1350 Code?
Confirm the exact factory definition and diagnostic procedure for your specific vehicle application. Because P1350 is manufacturer-specific, identifying whether it relates to an ignition control circuit, a VVT sensor, or an ignition amplifier is mandatory.
Follow the applicable manufacturer diagnostic steps to test the relevant system and components. Once the root cause is confirmed, complete the necessary repairs and verify that the system operates correctly and the code does not return.
