What does this code mean?
P0300 indicates random or multiple-cylinder misfire. P0301–P0308 identify the numbered cylinder. Ignition, fuel delivery, compression, air leaks or mechanical timing can cause misfire. Use misfire counters, freeze-frame data and appropriate tests to narrow the cause. A flashing malfunction light can signal a misfire that may damage the catalyst.
Sources and interpretation [1]
A code identifies a detected condition, not a part that must automatically be replaced.
Manufacturer communications
9Original wording in English
FORD
Reported code forms P0303
Some 2021 F-150 vehicles equipped with 3.5L PowerBoost engine and built on or before 30-Sep-2021 may experience a reduced engine power condition with an illuminated MIL and DTC P0299, P0301, P0302 and/or P0303 stored in…
FORD
Reported code forms P0303
Some 2021 F-150 vehicles equipped with 3.5L PowerBoost engine and built on or before 30-Sep-2021 may experience a reduced engine power condition with or without blue smoke with an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp…
FORD
Reported code forms P0303
Some 2016-2017 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 2.7L EcoBoost engine and built on 1-Apr-2016 and through 1-Jan-2017 may exhibit a rough idle in neutral or park at normal operating temperature with oil consumption greater…
FORD
Reported code forms P0303
Some 2016-2017 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 2.7L EcoBoost engine and built on 1-Apr-2016 and through 1-Jan-2017 may exhibit white or blue smoke from the exhaust, rough idle in neutral or park at normal operating…
FORD
Reported code forms P0303
Some 2018 F-150 equipped with 5.0L engines built on or before 3-Jan-2018 may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0316 and/or P0011, P0012, P0016, P0018, P0021, P0022, P0300, P0301, P0302,…
FORD
Reported code forms P0303
SOME 2016 F-150 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 2.7L GASOLINE TURBOCHARGED DIRECT INJECTION (GTDI) ENGINE AND BUILT ON 1-APR-2016 AND THROUGH 1-OCT-2016 MAY EXHIBIT WHITE OR BLUE SMOKE FROM THE EXHAUST, ROUGH IDLE IN NEUTRAL…
Check vehicle applicability
9A listed vehicle is a research lead. Confirm the engine, production range and software in the manufacturer's information.
Before replacing a part
Record codes and freeze-frame data. Check battery condition, related codes and visible wiring or hose damage. Follow the vehicle's diagnostic procedure and test results before replacing parts.
Sources and interpretation
These explanations are editorial summaries of the linked manufacturer material. PDF page numbers count from the first file page. Original publications are in English; translations are reference aids. A cited edition is not a claim that it is the manufacturer's latest instruction.
- 01 13 14 / 2033805 · Engine, Misfire Diagnostic Aid ↗
Volkswagen Group of America · PDF page(s) 1, 2 ·
- 2024–2025 MY OBD System Operation Summary for Gasoline Engines ↗
Ford Motor Company · PDF page(s) 9, 10 ·
Source check date · 2026-10-27
Can I keep driving?
A code alone cannot establish whether driving is safe. A flashing malfunction light, severe shaking, overheating, oil-pressure warning or loss of braking or steering needs prompt attention. Stop in a safe place and seek assistance when control or engine safety is affected. Follow the vehicle handbook.