The Quick Answer above is the generic definition. What follows is the model-specific detail for the BMW models that log P0351.
DTC/P0351·BMW
P0351 on BMW: Causes, Symptoms and Fix Cost
Quick Answer
Moderate SeverityNot safe to driveBMW
P0351 on a BMW means the ECU saw an electrical fault in the primary or secondary circuit of ignition coil #1. Usually a failed coil, sometimes wiring, connector, or the ECU's ignition driver.
Typical repair cost, all makes€55 - €1800
Connect any standard Bluetooth OBD2 adapter to your BMW and Skanyx tells you what P0351 means on that engine, whether it is safe to keep driving, and what the fix should cost. Free on iPhone and Android.
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BMW 3-Series
2007-2015N54 and N55 turbocharged sixes are hard on coils. A coil fitted over a worn plug works harder, so check plug condition whenever you replace one, and match coils and plugs to the specification for your engine.
What causes P0351 on a BMW?
Beyond the generic causes listed on the main P0351 page, these are the patterns noted for BMW models:
BMW 3-SeriesOil in the spark plug tubes from a failed valve cover gasket (very common on N54/N55)
BMW 3-SeriesCoil insulation breaking down under boost pressure
How to diagnose P0351 on a BMW with OBD2
Follow these steps to pinpoint the root cause of P0351:
- Scan for all stored codes. A P0301 alongside P0351 confirms cylinder 1 is the misfiring cylinder, not just an electrical hiccup.
- Pull the coil #1 connector and inspect for green corrosion, bent pins, or oil from a leaking valve cover gasket.
- Swap coil #1 with coil #3 (or any other cylinder), clear codes, and drive. If P0353 now appears, the coil is dead. If P0351 stays, the fault is wiring or ECU side.
- Pull spark plug #1. Check for excessive gap, oil fouling, or a cracked insulator. Replace it regardless while you're in there.
- Measure coil primary resistance (typically 0.4 to 2 ohms) and secondary (5k to 15k ohms). Compare to your service manual spec, not a generic number.
- Key on, engine off: confirm 12V at the coil power pin. Then back-probe the trigger wire and check for a switching signal while cranking.
- Trace the trigger wire back toward the ECU looking for chafe points, especially where the harness crosses the valve cover or a metal bracket.
- If coil, plug, power, and trigger wire all pass, scope the ECU driver output. A flat line while cranking points to a failed driver inside the ECU.
How much does P0351 cost to fix on a BMW? (EUR)
Estimated repair costs for P0351 in EUR, compiled across makes. Expect BMW parts and labour towards the upper end of each range.
Prices estimated as of March 2026. Costs vary by region, vehicle, and shop.
Codes related to P0351
These codes are often seen alongside P0351 or point to related issues, on any make:
Looking for the full P0351 reference (all makes, full diagnosis flow, complete repair cost matrix)?
See the main P0351 guideSkanyx · BMW
Diagnose P0351 on your BMW
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