What does it mean?
P1368 is a Powertrain (engine, transmission, fuel system) fault code. It indicates: Ignition coil/amplifier, cylinder 5 - short to positive . This is a standardised OBD-II code. The technical definition is the same regardless of the make or model of vehicle, although specific causes and symptoms can vary between vehicles.
Symptoms
- Cylinder 5 misfires or stops firing altogether, with a distinct shake at idle
- Check engine light on and flashing when misfire is heavy
- Loss of power and hesitation, particularly under acceleration
- Fuel smell from the exhaust and increased fuel consumption
- Rough running that can be intermittent if moisture is the cause
Likely causes
- Insulation worn through where the control wire runs beside a powered lead
- Water or corrosion inside the coil connector linking the feed pin to the control pin
- Internal short in the coil or amplifier for cylinder 5
- Wire crushed against a live terminal after work on the rear of the engine, where access is tight
- Failed connector seal allowing moisture to collect in the plug
- Poor previous repair connecting the control line to a power source
- Module driver damaged by voltage applied to its output
How to fix it
- Disconnect the cylinder 5 coil or amplifier and test the control wire for battery voltage with the key on
- Inspect the connector for water, corrosion and contamination between the pins, cleaning and drying it fully
- Measure between the supply and control terminals on the coil to identify an internal short
- Inspect the harness on that side of the engine, where heat and limited clearance often cause damage
- Check for previous repairs or accessory connections spliced into this circuit
- Repair the wiring fault before installing any new component
- Replace the coil or amplifier if it tests shorted, then confirm normal switching and no remaining misfire