P0352 on Pontiac: How to Diagnose & Fix
Ignition Coil B Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction
1 Pontiac model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical · $400-$1,000 repair
P0352 on Pontiac by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
1993-1997 Firebird/Trans Am with the LT1 5.7L V8 (same engine in Camaro Z28, Corvette C4, and some Buick Roadmaster/Caprice/Impala SS) suffers infamous Optispark distributor failure. The distributor sits at the front of the engine behind the water pump — coolant leaks from the water pump (or condensation from the front of the engine) drip directly into the Optispark and short the optical sensors. Symptoms: misfire, no-start, rough running in wet weather.
Common Symptoms
- misfire
- no-start when wet
- rough idle
- random cylinder misfire codes
How to Fix
Replace Optispark with a 1995+ vented Delco unit ($250-$500 part). ALWAYS replace the water pump at the same time ($150-$250 part) — they are the same labor job (water pump must come off to access the Optispark). Total job ~$400-$900 at independent. Confirm the vent tube routing on later "vented" Optispark.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- AIP D92LT new non-vented Optispark distributor
Do not use as a 1995-1997 vented unit.
- AIP D95LT new vented second-generation Optispark distributor
Confirm vent and vacuum-harness routing.
- ENC-1182 LT1 cam-driven aluminum water pump with gaskets
Confirm drive/seal condition and current installation procedure.
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P0352 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0352 mean on a Pontiac?
P0352 stands for "Ignition Coil B Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction." This is an ignition/engine code. Each ignition coil takes the car's low battery voltage and steps it up into the high-voltage spark that fires a spark plug. P0352 means the engine computer detected a problem in the primary or secondary circuit of ignition coil 'B' — it isn't getting the proper electrical signal back when the coil is commanded to fire. This often causes a misfire, rough running, hesitation or reduced power, and if left unaddressed can lead to unburned fuel damaging the catalytic converter. On Pontiac it is documented across 1 model: Firebird.
What are the most common causes of P0352?
The most common causes of P0352 are: Failed ignition coil 'B', Damaged wiring or corroded connector at the coil, Open or short in the coil primary/secondary circuit, Worn or fouled spark plug increasing coil stress, Poor power or ground supply to the coil, Faulty ignition control circuit/driver in the ECM (less common). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0352 on a Pontiac?
Published repair estimates on Pontiac range from $400 to $1,000 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0352 on a different make?
View P0352 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.