P1357
FordIDM Pulsewidth Not Defined
The code indicates that the engine control system did not recognize a defined injector-driver pulsewidth. Pulsewidth is the duration of an electrical command used to drive an injector. Depending on the vehicle and fault conditions, this can affect engine operation, but the code alone does not prove the injector driver module has failed.
⚠️ Before You Begin (Safety First)
If the engine stalls, runs severely rough, or loses power, stop in a safe place and avoid continuing to drive in traffic. If the engine runs normally, arrange diagnosis promptly and watch for worsening symptoms.
Common Symptoms
- The check-engine light may be on.
- The engine may run rough or misfire if injector drive commands are affected.
- Starting may be difficult or the engine may fail to start if the condition disrupts injector operation.
- Power may be reduced or the engine may stall if the fault becomes severe.
- There may be no noticeable symptoms if the detected condition is intermittent or does not significantly affect engine operation.
Common Causes
- A fault in the injector-driver wiring or an electrical connection may interrupt or distort the relevant signal.
- A power or ground problem affecting the injector-driver system may prevent a usable pulsewidth from being established.
- The injector driver module or related control circuitry may not be producing or reporting the expected pulsewidth.
- An intermittent electrical fault may cause the condition to appear only under some operating conditions.
Diagnostic Steps
- Record the code and any other stored or pending codes before clearing anything; related codes can help identify whether the issue is limited to the injector-driver system.
- Note whether the engine has starting, rough-running, stalling, or power-loss symptoms; this helps judge urgency and gives a technician useful diagnostic context.
- With the engine off, visually inspect accessible injector-driver wiring and connectors for damage, corrosion, looseness, or contamination. Do not disconnect components while the engine is running.
- Check the vehicle's service information for the correct system layout and safe inspection procedure; locations and circuit details vary by model, year, and engine.
- If the code returns or symptoms are present, have the relevant signals and circuits tested with suitable equipment rather than replacing the module based on the code alone.
When to Call a Professional
Confirm the code and check for related codes with a scan tool suited to the vehicle. Inspect the injector-driver wiring and connections, then verify relevant power, ground, and command signals using model-specific service information. Test the module only after wiring and circuit faults have been assessed.
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Commonly Asked Questions
Does P1357 prove the injector driver module is bad?
No. It identifies an undefined injector-driver pulsewidth condition, not a confirmed failed part. Wiring, connections, power, ground, and control signals should be checked before condemning the module.
What does pulsewidth mean here?
Pulsewidth is the duration of an electrical command associated with injector operation. The code indicates that the system did not recognize a defined pulsewidth; it does not specify the exact cause.
Can I keep driving with P1357?
If the engine runs normally, cautious driving to arrange diagnosis may be reasonable. Stop in a safe place if it stalls, runs severely rough, or loses power.
Will replacing the IDM necessarily fix the code?
No. A circuit or connection problem can produce a similar condition. Diagnosis should establish whether the module, its wiring, or another part of the control system is responsible.
Are the repair steps the same for every Ford?
No. Applicability, component layout, and test procedures depend on the vehicle's model, year, and engine. Use service information for the specific vehicle.
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