P0360 means the powertrain control module has detected an open circuit in the primary (low-side driver) control circuit for ignition coil “J.” This usually prevents coil J from firing the corresponding spark plug, causing a misfire on that cylinder.
The coil’s internal primary winding or connector can open up with age and heat, causing the PCM to see an incomplete primary circuit.
A broken wire, corroded terminal, pushed-out pin, or damaged harness between the PCM driver and coil J can create the reported open circuit.
If the coil’s ignition feed or ground path is interrupted, the primary circuit cannot complete and the code may set.
A failed spark plug or degraded coil boot can stress the coil and lead to internal primary-side damage, though the code itself indicates a primary circuit problem.
A failed coil-driver output in the PCM is possible but genuinely rare; it should only be considered after the coil, wiring, and grounds are proven good.
It is most often a bad ignition coil or an open in its wiring/connector. PCM failure is uncommon, so replacing the PCM without verifying the coil and harness first is usually wrong.
It is not advisable to drive long distances with a misfiring cylinder; unburned fuel can overheat and damage the catalytic converter. Repair it promptly.
“Open” is an electrical term meaning the circuit is incomplete. The break can be inside the coil, inside the wiring, or at a connector, and may not be visible from the outside.
Usually yes, because coil labels commonly match specific cylinders, but the exact mapping varies by engine and manufacturer, so confirm with service information for the vehicle.