Ignition Coil E Primary/Secondary Circuit
What it means
The engine computer has detected an electrical fault in the circuit of ignition coil E. This code appears on engines with five or more cylinders, where coil E usually serves cylinder 5, though the mapping varies by manufacturer, and it typically causes shaking and a misfire in that cylinder.
Symptoms4
- Check engine light on, possibly flashing during misfires.
- Rough idle and loss of power.
- A misfire code for the cylinder served by coil E, often P0305.
- Fuel smell from the exhaust.
Possible causes6
- Failed ignition coil E.
- Loose or corroded coil E connector.
- Open or shorted coil E control wire.
- Fault in the shared coil supply for that side of the engine.
- Worn spark plug or cracked coil boot.
- Failed driver circuit inside the engine computer (rare).
How to diagnose5
- Locate the cylinder coil E serves from the service manual, since cylinder numbering on V6 and V8 engines differs between manufacturers.
- Inspect the connector and wiring for damage or looseness.
- Swap coil E with another cylinder's coil, clear the codes and see whether the fault follows it.
- Measure supply and ground and check the control signal at the coil connector.
- If several coils on the same bank set codes, check that bank's shared supply or ground.
How to fix5
- Clean the connector and repair loose terminals.
- Repair the damaged control or supply wire.
- Replace ignition coil E if the fault follows it.
- Replace the worn spark plug in the same cylinder.
- Clear the codes, road test and confirm the code does not return.
Repair cost
In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.
The cost is low for a connector or wire, and rises with a new coil and plug, especially when reaching the coil requires removing the intake manifold on some V6 engines.
Prices are rough estimates for common cars at independent workshops and vary with the car and the source of the part.
Prices last updated: September 2026
Frequently asked questions
Why is this coil sometimes hard to replace?
On some V6 engines the coils on one bank sit under the intake manifold, so extra parts must be removed to reach them, which raises labor time and cost.
How do I know which cylinder is number 5?
Cylinder numbering on two-bank engines varies by manufacturer, so check the service manual or the firing order label on the engine if there is one.
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What was wrong? (optional)
This guide is for information only and does not replace an inspection by a qualified technician. If the fault involves brakes, steering, engine temperature, electrics or refrigerant, do not attempt the repair yourself.
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