P0302 code means “Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected.” This can happen for various reasons. In your case, a mechanic will need to determine the cause of the activated code.
A motorist is sure to have their fair share of car problems during their lifetime. A check engine light conjures up images of costly repairs and car downtime for most drivers, which causes many people to start to worry.
On the other hand, a check engine light frequently indicates a minor operational fault that should be addressed ASAP! The check engine light comes on when an engine’s control module stores a diagnostic issue code. These DTCs (diagnostic trouble codes) are extremely prevalent, especially as a car gets older. P0302 is one such DTC.
Continue reading to discover more about DTC P0302 and how to resolve the code’s root cause if it occurs.
P0302 – What does it mean?
Most cars have four or six cylinders. One by one, each cylinder fires a spark plug. In addition, each cylinder has a spark plug on top of it. The spark plug produces energy by igniting the combustible air/fuel mixture with an electric spark.
All of the cylinders working together control the crankshaft’s rotation. As a result, the crankshaft can rotate continuously when each cylinder fires. This procedure is responsible for the car’s smooth operation. If a cylinder misfires, the crankshaft’s revolutions per minute (RPM) may increase or decrease. The powertrain control module will store a fault code if the percentage of increase or decrease is more than 2%.
The Check Engine Light will light up if the crankshaft rotations per minute have increased or decreased by 2% to 10%. Likewise, the Check Engine Light will flash if the crankshaft revolutions per minute have risen or fallen by 10%. A Check Engine Light that blinks signals a more significant problem with misfiring. The P0302 error code indicates that cylinder two is misfiring and not receiving enough spark to its spark plug.
What to look for when you see P0302
The symptoms associated with the commencement of a P0302 DTC are not the same for every engine. However, several driveability-related symptoms can appear when a misfire code of this sort is present.
- No start/hard start situation
- Stuttering under load
- Power outage
- Lose in Mileage
- Stalling occasionally
What causes Code P0302?
Several different things can cause a P0302 problem code. Electrical or emissions system failure can potentially cause a P0302 DTC to appear in some situations.
- Spark plug failure
- Spark plug wire failure
- The coil pack is not working.
- The fuel injector is faulty, unclean, or clogged
- Cylinder compression is low.
- Excessive rotor button wear and tear
- Engine speed sensor (crankshaft/camshaft) failure
- Valve damaged or burnt
- The head gasket is leaking.
- Vacuum leaks
- EGR valve malfunction
- Plugged EGR passages
- Catalytic converter clogged
- PCM (powertrain control module) failure
What causes cylinder 2 to misfire?
A misfire is usually caused by a bad spark plug or another problem with the spark system. It could also be caused by a problem with how the fuel gets to the engine. Other issues could be a technical problem with the engine or the exhaust gas being recycled.
How serious is code P0302?
The underlying reason for a misfire code should be identified, diagnosed, and corrected ASAP.
As a result, various drivability concerns can occur, perhaps leaving a driver stranded in the worst-case scenario. The most serious issue caused by an unresolved misfire DTC is the possibility of damage to a car’s catalytic converter.
Superheating a catalytic converter’s core structure can occur as unburned fuel is delivered downstream through a car’s exhaust system. Basically, this usually leads to premature catalytic converter failure over time.
Can I drive with a P0302 code?
No. You must stop driving if the check engine light turns on due to this engine error code. Driving with this error code can lead to drivability issues. If you don’t address the issue on time, the cylinder misfire will lead to substantial engine damage.
Steps to fix P0302
To diagnose and repair P0302-related problems, follow the instructions below:
#1 – Examine the components of the ignition system
The failure of ignition system components is the leading cause of P0302 diagnostic trouble codes. As a result, one should begin diagnosing such a problem by thoroughly evaluating all relevant components. Begin by inspecting the engine’s number #2 spark plug for any damage or an incorrect gap. Next, inspect the spark plug wire corresponding to cylinder #2 for damage or chafing.
#2 – Verify the Spark
An inline spark tester can verify the spark on the problematic engine’s #2 cylinder.
#3 – Verify Fuel Injector Function
Fuel rail pressures can be measured when each engine’s injector is activated using a scan tool with the ignition turned on. If injector #2 actuation does not result in a drop in fuel pressure, perform additional fuel injector diagnostics to eliminate potential underlying electrical faults.
#4 – Look for any further error codes
If your engine’s P0302 fault code has not been resolved, you should undertake extra tests to confirm that no other DTCs are present.
#5: Conduct a Compression Test
If your car’s P0302 fault code persists, each engine’s cylinders should be checked for compression.
Consult your car’s manufacturer’s factory-specific service documentation for a final diagnosis.
Can a bad catalytic converter cause a P0302 code?
Yes. An engine misfire is one of the most common signs of a faulty catalytic converter. When your car misfires, there isn’t enough combustion inside the cylinder, indicating that the catalytic converter isn’t working properly.
What is the cost of fixing the P0302 code?
It’s impossible to provide a precise estimate without adequately assessing the problem.
Most shops will start with a one-hour “diag time” if you bring your car for a diagnosis (time spent in labor diagnosing your specific issue). This may cost anywhere between $75 and $150, depending on the shop’s labor rate. If you ask the shop to conduct the repairs for you, they will apply this diagnosis cost to any required repairs. After that, a shop will be able to provide you with an accurate repair cost for your P0302 code.
Accordingly, if properly detected, the P0302 code may need one or more of the following repairs to resolve the underlying issue. These prices include components and labor and are based on national averages. Your pricing will change depending on your location and car type.
All Your Questions Answered
The error code in the Dodge Charger implies a misfire in cylinder 2.
The error code in the Nissan Murano indicates cylinder 2 has a misfire.
Engine error code P0302 on a Toyota engine implies that cylinder 2 is misfiring.
The code signifies a misfiring cylinder 2 in a VW. The car’s PCM detects repeated misfires in cylinder 2 and activates this code.
A faulty spark plug or ignition coil inside cylinder 2 is the most common cause of a P0302 code.
Yes, but it’s risky. Driving with a P0302 code can damage the engine or cause catalytic converter failure if not addressed quickly.
Sara Sam may not look like your typical car and finance expert, but don’t let that fool you. With over four years of experience in the industry, she knows all the ins and outs of cars, car insurance, and refinancing. You can trust Sara to help you navigate the often-confusing world of automobiles and financing.
