1996 Ford F-150 5.0L Engine Misfire with P1151, P1351, and P1359 Codes - Diagnosis & Fixes
I own a 1996 Ford F--150 pickup equipped with a 5.0-liter V8 engine. The truck is currently running with a noticeable misfire that makes it feel like only six cylinders are firing. My diagnostic scan tool has detected three fault codes: P1151, P1351, and P1359. I've recently performed a complete tune-up and replaced the oxygen sensors, which are still relatively new. After swapping in an ECM from another 1996 F-150, the issue persists — indicating that the problem is not with the engine control module itself. Despite spending several years troubleshooting this vehicle, I'm still uncertain about the meaning of the last two codes. While P1151 (Lack of O2 sensor signal - Bank 2 Sensor 1) may be tolerable and potentially ignorable under certain conditions, I believe it's important not to dismiss any diagnostic code without further investigation. What are your thoughts on this issue? Can these codes point to a secondary ignition system fault? Owenandsons@hotmail.com Thanks! Keith
Replacing the PCM is typically not the first or most likely solution — it should be considered only after ruling out simpler issues. Always take diagnostic codes seriously, regardless of their apparent severity. The presence of P1351 and P1359 strongly suggests a secondary ignition system fault. Key questions to investigate: 1) Is the vehicle stock (no modifications)? 2) Confirm spark is present at all cylinders using a spark tester. A reasonable hypothesis: inspect or replace the Ignition Control Module (ICM). Code breakdown: P1151 – Lack of O2 sensor signal in Bank 2 Sensor 1 – The ECM cannot adjust fuel trim due to persistent lean or rich conditions. P1351 – Ignition diagnostic monitor circuit fault – The ECM detected a malfunction in the ignition monitoring circuit originating from the distributor. P1359 – Spark output circuit condition – The ECM detected no signal (SPARK OUTPUT) from the distributor, indicating potential failure in spark generation.