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Home/Cars/BMW/X3/F25 (2011-2018)/how to fix P0304 cylinder 4 misfire in BMW X3 F25 (2011-2018)

how to fix P0304 cylinder 4 misfire in BMW X3 F25 (2011-2018)

BMW X3 F25 (2011-2018)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: mediumError Code: P03042-4 hours
3 min read
581 words

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement The vehicle is experiencing a P0304 trouble code, indicating a misfire in cylinder 4 of a 2011-2018 BMW X3 F25.

Error Code
P0304
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Safety Warnings:**
  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before performing any maintenance.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle or stalling
  • •Decreased fuel efficiency
  • •Loss of power during acceleration
  • •Increased exhaust emissions

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle's onboard diagnostics using an OBD-II scanner to confirm the P0304 code and check for any additional trouble codes.
  2. 2Inspect the spark plug in cylinder 4 for wear, damage, or fouling.
  3. 3Examine the ignition coil for cylinder 4 for any visible cracks or faults.
  4. 4Check the fuel injector in cylinder 4 for proper operation and signs of clogging.
  5. 5Perform a compression test on cylinder 4 to assess engine health.
  6. 6Inspect wiring and connectors associated with the ignition coil and fuel injector for damage or corrosion.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Tools Required:
    • OBD-II scanner
    • Socket set
    • Torque wrench
    • Compression tester
    • Multimeter
    • Fuel injector cleaning kit (if needed)
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is cool.

2. Replace Spark Plug

  • Remove the engine cover (if applicable).
  • Disconnect the ignition coil harness for cylinder 4.
  • Remove the ignition coil using a socket.
  • Remove the spark plug using a spark plug socket.
  • Inspect the old spark plug; if it is worn or fouled, replace it with a new spark plug that meets manufacturer specifications.
  • Torque the new spark plug to 25 Nm (18.5 lb-ft).
  • Reinstall the ignition coil and reconnect the harness.

3. Replace Ignition Coil

  • If the ignition coil is faulty, remove it from cylinder 4 following similar steps as above.
  • Install a new ignition coil, ensuring it is seated properly.
  • Torque the ignition coil mounting bolt to manufacturer specifications.

4. Inspect and Clean Fuel Injector

  • If the injector is clogged, remove the fuel rail to access the injector.
  • Disconnect the fuel line and electrical connector from the injector.
  • Remove the fuel injector from the rail.
  • Use a fuel injector cleaning kit to clean the injector or replace it if necessary.
  • Reinstall the injector, ensuring it is securely fitted.

5. Compression Test (if misfire persists)

  • Remove the spark plug from cylinder 4.
  • Insert the compression tester into the spark plug hole.
  • Crank the engine to obtain a compression reading.
  • Compare the reading to the manufacturer's specifications. A significant deviation may indicate internal engine issues.

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
  • Compression tester
  • Multimeter
  • Fuel injector cleaning kit (if needed)
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is cool.

Parts Required

  • Spark plug (for cylinder 4)
  • Ignition coil (for cylinder 4)
  • Fuel injector (if required)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0304
Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

7 items

Parts

3 items

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