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
The LT1 5.7L V8 in 1993-1997 Firebirds and Trans Ams (the same engine used in the Camaro Z28, C4 Corvette, and some Buick Roadmaster, Caprice and Impala SS models) is prone to 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, causing misfires, no-starts and rough running in wet weather.
Common Symptoms
- Engine misfires
- No-start in wet weather
- Rough idle
- Random cylinder misfire codes
How to Fix
Replace the Optispark with a 1995-and-later 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). Expect about $400-$900 in total at an independent shop. Confirm the vent tube routing on the 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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Sources for this issue (1)
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.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.