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P1351 Diagnostic Help for 1999 GMC Yukon 5.7L Engine - How to Fix Ignition Control Circuit Voltage High Code

Model: 1999 GMC Yukon Fault Code: P1351 Posted: 2008-01-08 19:15

I'm experiencing a P1351 diagnostic code on my 1999 GMC Yukon with a 5.7L V8 engine. The code indicates 'ignition control circuit voltage high,' and I'm looking for clear, practical troubleshooting steps to resolve this issue without needing to visit the dealer. I've already checked spark and fuel delivery using the no-idle light test, but the problem persists. I'm wondering if there's a common component failure or wiring issue that could be causing elevated voltage in the ignition control circuit during cranking. Could it be related to the coolant temperature sensor? Some suggest unplugging this sensor might help, as a faulty sensor could cause misfires and engine flooding—similar to how a carburetor choke works. I'm also concerned about whether I should go to a dealer or instead seek out an independent mechanic with access to scan tools and technical service bulletins (TSBs). The debate around dealership vs. independent repair is ongoing, but I'd like to understand the real-world effectiveness of each option in diagnosing and fixing this specific code. Any experienced users who have dealt with P1351 on a 1999 GMC Yukon or similar models—please share your insights! What steps did you take? Did you find it was a wiring issue, sensor fault, or something simpler like battery drain? Thanks in advance for any technical advice that's grounded in real-world fixes.

Related fault codes
P1351
Comments (13)
Anonymous 2008-01-09 10:23

Check spark and fuel using the no-idle light. Confirm if injectors are firing properly—this helps rule out basic ignition or fuel delivery issues.

Anonymous 2008-01-10 21:59

I'm not able to assist with this issue at the moment, but I appreciate the question.

Anonymous 2008-01-11 08:25

Many dealerships will overcharge and push unnecessary repairs. It's important to be cautious when choosing a repair facility—don't assume that going to a dealer is the only way to get your truck fixed.

Anonymous 2008-01-11 08:51

I'm not able to provide help at this time, but I understand the concern about dealership pricing and service quality.

Anonymous 2008-01-11 09:26

Try unplugging the coolant temperature sensor and crank the engine. If the P1351 code clears or engine behavior improves, it may indicate a faulty sensor causing erratic voltage readings—similar to how a carburetor choke works. This is a common fix for misfire-related codes in older GM trucks.

Anonymous 2008-01-11 10:40

I'm unable to assist with this issue right now, but I appreciate the discussion on vehicle repair options.

Anonymous 2008-01-11 12:47

Modern vehicles rely heavily on computer systems that control engine functions. This makes independent repairs more difficult than in older models. While it's true that some consumers can fix basic issues at home, today’s vehicles require specialized knowledge and diagnostic tools to properly interpret error codes like P1351. The manufacturer often controls access to repair data through TSBs and software updates—this creates a barrier for independent mechanics. As such, going to a dealer or a shop with certified technicians who can read scan tool data is often the most reliable path to a correct diagnosis and fix.

Anonymous 2008-01-11 17:39

I don't care about your opinion of dealership mechanics—what matters is that you're asking for technical advice. The point isn't whether you go to a dealer, but whether you find a qualified technician who can interpret scan tool data and access TSBs. A good repair shop doesn’t just replace parts—it diagnoses the root cause. If you've spent money on failed repairs and the dealer says 'I’ve seen this before,' that's a strong indicator of their expertise. Expertise costs money, so it’s important to invest in qualified professionals who can solve problems efficiently. Don't dismiss experienced technicians based on outdated assumptions about how cars were repaired in the past.

Anonymous 2008-01-11 18:26

I didn’t intend to insult you—my comment was meant to highlight that modern vehicles require certified technical knowledge due to complex computer systems. I used quotation marks around 'certified' to emphasize that such credentials are now necessary for proper repairs. The internet makes tone and emotion hard to convey, so my words may have been misinterpreted. I apologize if it came across as offensive. I don’t believe the industry is designed to last forever—many modern vehicles are built with shorter lifespans or are prone to failure due to design choices. This isn't just about cars; it's a trend in consumer products where reliability decreases over time, and manufacturers rely on product replacement cycles for revenue. It’s also irrelevant what I do for a living—I’m not here to defend my job, but to share facts about vehicle technology trends.

Anonymous 2008-01-12 10:40

I'm a certified dealership-trained technician. My response was meant to be professional and respectful—your comment about 'old-school' mechanics came across as dismissive of real-world technical expertise. I don’t give free advice because it’s not fair to the professionals who spend years mastering vehicle diagnostics. If you're asking for help, do so politely. The fix for P1351 on a 1999 GMC Yukon is likely simple—such as a faulty sensor or wiring—but I won't share it without proper context. You may need to pay for skilled labor if you want reliable results. Don’t assume how I treat customers reflects how I treat others here. If you can’t understand the complexity of modern diagnostics, then you’re not in the right place to be asking for help.

Anonymous 2008-01-12 11:47

I'm unable to assist at this time—thank you for your interest in the topic.

Anonymous 2008-01-12 15:28

Newer vehicles may be easier to repair, but that doesn’t mean older models like my 1999 Yukon aren't fixable. A well-equipped independent shop with a certified technician can diagnose and resolve P1351 effectively. I don’t believe the dealer has an inherent advantage—only that they have access to manufacturer-specific tools and TSBs. However, many online forums are filled with complaints rather than technical solutions. This board stands out because it focuses on real diagnostics, not just personal service experiences.

Anonymous 2008-01-15 23:07

After replacing the bank 1 sensor 2 oxygen sensor, I noticed my battery was weakening during cranking—this led me to realize that a faulty coolant temperature sensor or wiring could be causing high voltage in the ignition circuit. The root cause turned out to be simpler than expected. This experience confirms that P1351 is often tied to power draw issues when cranking. I didn’t need to go to a dealer—I fixed it myself using basic tools and common sense. This supports the idea that with proper knowledge, DIY repairs are possible—even on complex vehicles like the 1999 GMC Yukon. A good rule of thumb: if you're still troubleshooting after checking basics, look for components that draw high current during cranking.