HomeP0304 · Engine misfire detected · Cylinder 4
Powertrain

P0304

Engine misfire detected · Cylinder 4

P0304
Reference meaning

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.

A code identifies a detected condition, not a part that must automatically be replaced.

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A listed vehicle is a research lead. Confirm the engine, production range and software in the manufacturer's information.

Manufacturer communications

7

Original wording in English

020901

FORD

Reported code forms P0304

ROUGH IDLE, LOW POWER AND / OR STALL AT IDLE, A MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP ILLUMINATED AND DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES P0300 THROUGH P0304 STORED IN MEMORY. *TT

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0291

FORD, MERCURY

Reported code forms P0304

SOME VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE 2.0L SPI ENGINE MAY EXHIBIT A MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ILLUMINATED AND DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTC) P0300 THROUGH P0304 STORED. *TT

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9811473

FORD, MERCURY

Reported code forms P0304

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A CUSTOME CONCERN OF STEADY OR INTERMITTENT MISS WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES P0300 AND P0304. *TT

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982534

FORD, MERCURY

Reported code forms P0304

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A CUSTOMER CONCERN OF STEADY OR INTERMITTENT MISS WITH DTCS P0300 AND P0304. THIS MAY BE CAUSED BY A SPREAD ELECTRICAL TERMINAL IN CONNECTORS AT INJECTOR. REPAIR TERMINAL/CONNECTOR CONCERN BY…

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96265

FORD, MERCURY

Reported code forms P0304

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) - DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCS) P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304, P0305, P0306, P0307, AND/OR P0308 STORED IN MEMORY. *TW

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Check vehicle applicability

7

A listed vehicle is a research lead. Confirm the engine, production range and software in the manufacturer's information.

MakeModelModel year
FordESCORT2002
FordESCORT2001
FordESCORT2000
FordESCORT1999
FordESCORT1998
FordESCORT1997
FordESCORT1996

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.

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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.

  1. 01 13 14 / 2033805 · Engine, Misfire Diagnostic Aid ↗

    Volkswagen Group of America · PDF page(s) 1, 2 ·

  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.