HomeTrouble CodesP2322

P2322 — Ignition Coil H Primary Control Circuit High

Manufacturer-specificPowertrain (engine & transmission)

P2322 indicates the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected an abnormal high voltage condition on the primary (ground-switch) control circuit for Ignition Coil H (cylinder 8). In normal operation, the PCM grounds this circuit to fire the coil. This code sets when the PCM sees battery voltage (or a lack of ground) on that circuit when it should be low.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Failed Ignition Coil H

The most common cause is a failed ignition coil for cylinder 8. The internal switching transistor or windings short out, preventing the circuit from being pulled to ground and causing the high voltage feedback the PCM sees.

2. Wiring/Connector Issue

A short to battery voltage (B+), broken wire, or corroded/pushed-out connector pin in the harness between the PCM and the coil will prevent the ground signal from reaching the coil or will feed it incorrect voltage.

3. Shorted Spark Plug

A severely fouled, cracked, or improperly gapped spark plug in cylinder 8 can create an excessive short circuit within the ignition system, placing abnormal load on the coil's primary circuit and triggering the code.

4. PCM Failure

In rare cases, the PCM's internal output driver for the coil circuit fails, preventing it from providing a ground or correctly reading the circuit. This should be diagnosed only after the coil and wiring are confirmed good.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Retrieve all stored codes and note freeze frame data; check for cylinder-specific misfire codes (P0308) alongside P2322.
  2. Visually inspect the wiring harness and electrical connector for ignition coil H (cyl 8) for signs of damage, chafing against engine components, heat damage, or corrosion.
  3. Test the ignition coil: using a multimeter, check the primary and secondary winding resistance against manufacturer specifications to identify a shorted coil.
  4. Perform a voltage drop test or check for unexpected voltage on the primary control circuit at the coil connector with the key on and engine off.
  5. Conduct a swap test: if possible, exchange coil H with a known-good coil (e.g., coil A) and clear codes to see if the fault moves to the other cylinder.
  6. If coil and wiring test good, use an oscilloscope to verify the PCM is sending a valid ground pulse (switching to 0V) on the circuit. A missing pulse indicates a possible PCM driver failure.

Code facts & related codes

SystemPowertrain (engine & transmission)
StandardizationManufacturer-specific (P1/B1/C1/U1)

Frequently asked

Is replacing the PCM the right fix for P2322?

No. The PCM is the least likely cause of this code. It is often misdiagnosed because it is a 'computer code.' In almost all cases, the fault lies in the ignition coil itself or the wiring harness connecting to it. Always test the coil and wiring thoroughly before considering a computer replacement.

Can a bad spark plug cause this code?

Yes. While less common than a bad coil, a spark plug that is severely carbon-fouled or has an internal ceramic short can place a heavy electrical load on the ignition coil's primary circuit, which may trigger this code or a related misfire code.

What is 'Ignition Coil H'?

Coil H refers to the ignition coil assigned to the 8th cylinder in the engine's firing order. This is typically the last cylinder on the second bank of cylinders (Bank 2), though cylinder numbering can vary by manufacturer. Consult your service manual for the exact location.

Is it safe to drive with this code?

It is not recommended for long distances. The code indicates a cylinder is not firing properly, which allows unburned fuel to enter the exhaust. This raw fuel can quickly overheat and damage the catalytic converter, leading to more expensive repairs. The vehicle will drive rough and consume more fuel.