What it means
Ignition K Control Signal Circuit/Open: the circuit is open. This line drives an ignition coil group; a fault causes misfire on those cylinders.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
The ignition K control signal circuit carries a command from the powertrain control module to the ignition coil group assigned to circuit K. The module monitors that path; this code sets when the circuit is open, so the affected coils may not receive their switching command and their cylinders can misfire.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Open wire between PCM and coil
- Pin pushed back out of connector body
- Cracked solder joint inside the module or sensor
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Engine misfire or rough running
- Hesitation or reduced power
- Possible hard starting or no-start
How to diagnose it
- Record freeze-frame data and check for misfire codes or live misfire counts to identify which cylinders are affected by ignition group K.
- With the ignition off, inspect the K control wire and its connectors between the module and coil group for breaks, backed-out pins, or loose connections.
- Check the coil group connector for corrosion or damage and confirm it is seated securely.
- Use the wiring diagram and manufacturer’s procedure to check continuity of the K control circuit and inspect for a poor connection at each end.
- If the harness and terminals pass, test the coil group and module output using the manufacturer’s procedure before replacing either.
Common fixes
- Reconnect a loose coil group or module connector in the K control circuit.
- Repair a broken or open wire between the module and coil group K.
- Repair a pushed-back or damaged connector terminal.
- Repair a failed module circuit only after wiring and coil checks confirm the fault is internal.
Can I keep driving?
Avoid driving if the engine is misfiring badly or the check-engine light is flashing; unburned fuel can overheat and damage the catalytic converter. If it runs smoothly, keep any trip short and gentle, and stop if it misfires or loses power.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.