FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/BMW/3 Series/F30/F31 (2012-2019)/how to fix the P0301 code in my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019)

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

BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019)

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

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement The P0301 code indicates a cylinder 1 misfire in a BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019), suggesting issues with ignition, fuel delivery, or engine compression in that specific cylinde

Error Code
P0301
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Safety Warnings:**
  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical components.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before performing any repairs to prevent burns.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle or engine shaking
  • •Loss of power during acceleration
  • •Decreased fuel economy
  • •Engine stalling
  • •Increased emissions

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle with an OBD-II scanner to confirm the P0301 code and check for any additional codes.
  2. 2Inspect the ignition coil on cylinder 1 for visible damage or corrosion.
  3. 3Check the spark plug in cylinder 1 for wear, fouling, or improper gap.
  4. 4Perform a compression test on cylinder 1 to assess engine health.
  5. 5Inspect fuel injectors for clogs or malfunctioning operation.
  6. 6Examine wiring and connectors related to the ignition coil and fuel injector for any signs of damage.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather tools and parts required for the repair.
  • Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to ensure safety during the procedure.

2. Inspect and Replace Spark Plug

  1. Remove the engine cover if applicable.
  2. Remove the ignition coil from cylinder 1:
    • Unscrew the mounting bolt(s) using a socket wrench.
    • Gently pull the ignition coil out.
  3. Remove the spark plug using a spark plug socket and ratchet:
    • Turn counterclockwise to loosen and remove.
  4. Inspect the spark plug:
    • Look for signs of wear, fouling, or improper gap. Replace if necessary.
  5. Install a new spark plug:
    • Set the gap according to the manufacturer specifications (usually around 0.030 inches).
    • Screw in the new spark plug by hand, then tighten with a torque wrench to the manufacturer’s torque specification (typically around 15 lb-ft).

3. Check and Replace Ignition Coil

  1. If the ignition coil appears damaged, replace it:
    • Install the new ignition coil onto the spark plug, ensuring it is seated properly.
    • Secure it with the mounting bolt(s).
  2. Reconnect the electrical connector to the ignition coil.

4. Inspect and Replace Fuel Injector (if needed)

  1. If the injector is suspected of malfunction:
    • Disconnect the fuel injector connector.
    • Remove the fuel rail (if necessary) to access the injector.
  2. Remove the old fuel injector:
    • Use a fuel injector puller if available.
  3. Install a new fuel injector:
    • Lubricate the O-ring with engine oil for a proper seal.
    • Insert and secure it in place, reattaching the fuel rail if it was removed.

5. Final Steps

  1. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
  2. Start the engine and allow it to idle for a few minutes to ensure proper operation.

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

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Spark plug socket
  • Ratchet and extensions
  • Fuel injector puller (if necessary)

Parts Required

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

Additional Information

Error CodeP0301
Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

6 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) overheats after a long drive

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) is experiencing overheating issues after long drives, indicating potential cooling system fa...

    Symptoms
    • •Engine temperature gauge reading higher than normal
    • •Coolant warning light illuminated
    • +{count} more
  2. how to fix a sticking throttle in my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019)

    ## Problem Statement The throttle in a BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) is sticking, causing irregular acceleration and potential safety hazards while...

    Symptoms
    • •Throttle pedal feels unresponsive or difficult to press
    • •Engine RPMs increase unexpectedly
    • +{count} more
  3. my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) makes a clunking noise when shifting

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) is experiencing a clunking noise during gear shifts, which may indicate an issue with the tr...

    Symptoms
    • •Clunking noise when shifting gears
    • •Delayed or harsh shifting
    • +{count} more
  4. why does my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) accelerate slowly

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) is experiencing slow acceleration, indicating a potential issue with the engine or drivetrai...

    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Noticeable loss of power during acceleration
    • +{count} more
  5. why does my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) engine misfire at idle

    ## Problem Statement The engine in a BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) is experiencing a misfire while idling.

    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Rough idle
    • +{count} more
  6. why does my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) have poor acceleration?

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) is experiencing poor acceleration, which may indicate underlying mechanical or electronic is...

    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Engine stalling during acceleration
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation