Error code
OBD2 P0301
OBD2P0301
Diagnostic Trouble Code· Standard OBD-II fault code read from the vehicle's onboard diagnostics.
What it means
Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected.
Severity
moderateAvoid driving if possible to prevent further damage.
Summary
P0301 indicates a misfire detected in Cylinder 1 of the engine.
Symptoms
- Engine shaking or jerking
- Decreased fuel efficiency
Common Causes
- Spark problem (ignition coil, spark plug)
- Compression problem (worn piston rings, valve issues)
- Fuel injection problem (injector malfunction or clogging)
Diagnosis
- Check ignition system for spark issues using a spark tester.
- Perform compression and leak down tests on Cylinder 1.
- Test fuel injectors with a noid light or multimeter.
Fixes
- Replace faulty spark plug, ignition coil, or fuel injector.
FAQ
Can a bad O2 sensor cause a misfire in cylinder 1?
No, a bad oxygen (O2) sensor cannot directly cause a single-cylinder misfire.
How long does it take for a misfire to damage the catalytic converter?
A persistent misfire can quickly lead to catalyst damage if not addressed promptly.
Not affiliated with OBD2. Answer summarized from the manufacturer's manual linked above; consult that source for the authoritative procedure.
More OBD2 codes
- P0300Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
- P0302Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected
- P0303Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected
- P0304Cylinder 4 Misfire Detected
- P0305Cylinder 5 Misfire Detected
- P0306Cylinder 6 Misfire Detected
- P0307Cylinder 7 Misfire Detected
- P0308Cylinder 8 Misfire Detected
- P0309Cylinder 9 Misfire Detected
- P0310Cylinder 10 Misfire Detected
- P0311Cylinder 11 Misfire Detected
- P0312Cylinder 12 Misfire Detected