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DTC codes / GM codes / P1359

P1359 · GMIgnition Control Circuit Group A

P1359 on a GM vehicle means the engine control module has detected a fault in the ignition control circuit for one group of cylinders, typically the coil or module trigger circuit it uses to command spark. The computer monitors the circuit for unexpected voltage or continuity behavior and sets the code when the signal does not match what it commanded.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeGM specific
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaIgnition system and misfire

Symptoms you may notice

  • Check engine light or service engine soon light illuminated, often with no other symptoms
  • Engine misfire or rough running, especially under load or at idle
  • Hard starting, extended cranking, or a no-start condition in severe cases
  • Reduced power or the vehicle entering limp mode
  • Poor fuel economy or a strong fuel smell from unburned fuel
  • Occasional stumble or hesitation during acceleration

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Faulty ignition coil or ignition control module on the affected cylinder group
  2. Damaged or corroded wiring harness between the ignition control module and the coil pack
  3. Loose, backed-out, or corroded connector pins at the ignition coil or module
  4. Failed ignition control module ground or poor engine ground connection
  5. Faulty crankshaft position sensor or camshaft position sensor feeding the ignition timing signal
  6. Engine control module internal driver failure on the ignition control circuit
  7. Aftermarket alarm or remote start wiring tapped into the ignition circuit

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Scan all modules and record freeze-frame data to confirm when the code sets and whether other misfire or cam/crank codes are present
  2. Inspect the ignition coil and module connectors for corrosion, loose pins, and chafed wiring, then perform a wiggle test while watching live misfire data
  3. Measure resistance and voltage drop on the ignition control circuit from the module to the coil, comparing to the factory wiring diagram
  4. Swap the ignition coil or module with a known-good unit from the same cylinder group to see if the fault moves
  5. Check all engine and ignition module grounds for cleanliness and tightness, and verify battery voltage and charging system health
  6. Test the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors with a lab scope for a clean signal, since a weak signal can mimic an ignition control fault
  7. If all external circuits and components test good, diagnose the engine control module driver or replace and reprogram the module as a last step

What a P1359 often really means

  • A loose or corroded ground at the ignition module is one of the most common causes of P1359 on GM trucks and SUVs, and it is frequently overlooked because the connector looks fine from the outside.
  • This code does not always mean the ignition coil or module is bad; a failing crankshaft position sensor can interrupt the timing reference and set P1359 without any coil fault at all.
  • Aftermarket remote start or alarm systems spliced into the ignition wiring are a frequent hidden cause on older GM vehicles, so inspect for non-factory taps before condemning parts.
  • A misfire that only appears when the engine is hot often points to a failing ignition control module rather than the coil, because the module's internal driver breaks down with heat.
  • Clearing the code without checking freeze-frame data can send you chasing the wrong cylinder group, since the code may set only during specific operating conditions like cold start or high load.

Can I keep driving with P1359?

You can usually drive a short distance to a repair shop if the engine runs smoothly and the light is steady, but avoid heavy acceleration or towing. If the engine misfires badly, loses power, or the check engine light flashes, stop driving to prevent catalytic converter damage and further engine harm.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for GM vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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