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Home/Cars/BMW/5 Series/F10/F11 (2010-2017)/how to fix P0301 misfire code on BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017)

how to fix P0301 misfire code on BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017)

BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017)

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

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement The vehicle is displaying a P0301 trouble code, indicating a misfire is occurring in cylinder 1 of a BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017).

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 completely before performing any work on the ignition system.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle when the engine is running
  • •Decreased acceleration and power
  • •Engine stalling during low-speed operation
  • •Increased fuel consumption
  • •Possible engine noise or vibration

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle’s OBD-II system to confirm the P0301 code and check for any accompanying codes.
  2. 2Inspect the spark plug from cylinder 1 for wear or damage; replace if necessary.
  3. 3Check the ignition coil for cylinder 1 for proper function using a multimeter.
  4. 4Verify fuel injector operation for cylinder 1 by performing a fuel injector balance test.
  5. 5Test the cylinder compression using a compression tester to ensure there are no mechanical issues.
  6. 6Inspect for vacuum leaks in the intake manifold or associated hoses that may affect cylinder 1's operation.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather all necessary tools and parts.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface with the engine off and cool.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shock.

2. Inspect and Replace Spark Plug

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Remove the engine cover (if applicable) by unscrewing any bolts or clips.
    2. Disconnect the ignition coil connector for cylinder 1.
    3. Remove the ignition coil by unscrewing the retaining bolt and pulling it upward.
    4. Use a spark plug socket and ratchet to remove the spark plug from cylinder 1.
    5. Inspect the spark plug for signs of wear, such as excessive carbon buildup or damage.
    6. Install a new spark plug, ensuring it is gapped correctly to the manufacturer's specifications (typically around 0.030 inches).
    7. Reinstall the ignition coil and reconnect the wiring harness.

3. Inspect and Test Ignition Coil

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Use a multimeter to check the primary and secondary resistance of the ignition coil. Compare with specifications found in the service manual.
    2. If the resistance is out of spec, replace the ignition coil with a new one.

4. Test Fuel Injector

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Remove the fuel rail cover (if applicable) to access the fuel injectors.
    2. Check the electrical connector of the fuel injector for cylinder 1 for proper connection.
    3. Use a noid light to verify that the injector is receiving the correct signal.
    4. If the injector is not functioning, replace it with a new fuel injector.

5. Conduct Compression Test

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Remove the spark plug from cylinder 1.
    2. Insert the compression tester into the spark plug hole.
    3. Crank the engine for about 5-7 seconds and record the compression reading.
    4. Compare the reading to the manufacturer's specifications. If the compression is low, further investigation into engine internals may be required.

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
  • Spark plug socket
  • Ratchet set
  • Multimeter
  • Compression tester
  • Noid light (for injector testing)

Parts Required

  • Spark plug (specific to BMW F10/F11)
  • Ignition coil (if faulty)
  • Fuel injector (if faulty)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0301
Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

6 items

Parts

3 items

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