2005 Ford Escape Randomly Shuts Off with P0351 and P0359 Fault Code - Coil Keeps Blowing After Replacement
I own a 2005 Ford Escape that has been experiencing intermittent engine shutdowns. While driving, the vehicle suddenly shuts off and will only turn over without starting. After investigating two months later, I discovered that the fuse supplying power to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) had blown. Replacing this fuse resolved the immediate issue, allowing the car to start again. However, the problem persists: after replacing the spark plug coil located at the firewall on the passenger side, it consistently blows out shortly after installation. Each time this occurs, the vehicle displays fault codes P0351 and P0351PD (which is likely a typo or misread—should be P0351 and possibly P0359). I have already replaced all spark plugs and coils multiple times, but the issue always returns to that specific coil. My question: Why does this particular coil keep blowing every time it's replaced? Is there a wiring fault, ground issue, or internal component failure in the ignition system causing this recurring problem?
The statement 'it still starts but keeps blowing the coil on the plug that is at the firewall on the passenger side' refers to whether the coil's primary or secondary winding is opening or shorting, as detected by a resistance test. Use a noid light to verify if the PCM is sending a pulsing signal to the coil. If the ground side of the coil is not properly grounded—due to a wiring fault or faulty ground connection—it may cause the coil to blow repeatedly.