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Home/Cars/BMW/3 Series/F30/F31 (2012-2019)/how to fix P0301 misfire code in BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019)

how to fix P0301 misfire code in BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019)

BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: mediumError Code: P03012-4 hours
3 min read
583 words

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement A P0301 code indicates a misfire in cylinder 1 of a BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019). This problem can lead to poor engine performance and increased emissions.

Error Code
P0301
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Safety Warnings:**
  • ⚠Disconnect battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow engine to cool before opening any components.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle at low RPMs
  • •Loss of power during acceleration
  • •Increased fuel consumption
  • •Engine stalling or hesitation
  • •Unusual engine noise from the affected cylinder

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to confirm the P0301 code.
  2. 2Inspect the ignition coil for cylinder 1 for damage or malfunction.
  3. 3Check the spark plug in cylinder 1 for wear or fouling.
  4. 4Perform a compression test on cylinder 1 to check for mechanical issues.
  5. 5Inspect fuel injector function for cylinder 1.
  6. 6Check for vacuum leaks around the intake manifold.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the battery to prevent electrical shorts.
  • Allow the engine to cool before beginning work.

2. Inspect and Replace Ignition Coil

  • Tools Required: Socket set, ratchet, torque wrench
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Remove the engine cover if applicable.
    2. Disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition coil for cylinder 1.
    3. Remove the bolt securing the ignition coil using a socket.
    4. Pull the ignition coil out of the spark plug well.
    5. Install the new ignition coil and secure it with the bolt. Torque to manufacturer specifications (usually around 10 Nm).
    6. Reconnect the electrical connector.

3. Inspect and Replace Spark Plug

  • Tools Required: Spark plug socket, torque wrench
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Remove the ignition coil as described above.
    2. Use a spark plug socket to unscrew the old spark plug from cylinder 1.
    3. Inspect the old spark plug for wear or fouling.
    4. Gap the new spark plug according to manufacturer specifications.
    5. Install the new spark plug and torque to manufacturer specifications (usually around 25 Nm).
    6. Reinstall the ignition coil.

4. Test Fuel Injector

  • Tools Required: Fuel injector tester
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Disconnect the fuel injector harness for cylinder 1.
    2. Use a fuel injector tester to check the injector’s operation.
    3. If the injector fails the test, replace it with a new fuel injector.
    4. Reconnect the fuel injector harness.

5. Check Compression (if necessary)

  • Tools Required: Compression tester
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Remove the spark plug from cylinder 1.
    2. Screw in the compression tester.
    3. Crank the engine several times to get a reading.
    4. Compare the compression reading to manufacturer specifications. If low, investigate potential causes such as valve issues or head gasket failure.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • Sub-steps:**
  • Remove the engine cover if applicable.
  • Disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition coil for cylinder 1.
  • Remove the bolt securing the ignition coil using a socket.
  • Pull the ignition coil out of the spark plug well.
  • Reconnect the electrical connector.

Parts Required

  • Ignition coil for cylinder 1
  • Spark plug for cylinder 1
  • Fuel injector for cylinder 1 (if necessary)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0301
Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

6 items

Parts

3 items

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