FAULTBASE
Error CodesASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Toyota/Corolla/E140 (2006-2013)/how to fix P0303 misfire code in Toyota Corolla E140 (2006-2013)

how to fix P0303 misfire code in Toyota Corolla E140 (2006-2013)

Toyota Corolla E140 (2006-2013)

Error Codes
Severity: highDifficulty: mediumError Code: P03032-4 hours
3 min read
593 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix P0303 cylinder 3 misfire in Toyota Corolla E140 (2006-2013). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Error Code
P0303
Affected Component
Engine
Estimated Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical components.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before removing any parts to prevent burns.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle
  • •Decreased acceleration
  • •Increased fuel consumption
  • •Engine stalling
  • •Poor engine performance under load

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle's OBD-II system with a code reader to confirm the P0303 code and check for any additional codes.
  2. 2Inspect the spark plug and ignition coil of cylinder 3 for wear or damage.
  3. 3Perform a visual inspection of the wiring and connectors associated with the ignition system for damage or corrosion.
  4. 4Conduct a compression test on cylinder 3 to verify if compression levels are within specifications.
  5. 5Check fuel injector operation for cylinder 3 using a noid light or multimeter.
  6. 6Inspect vacuum lines for leaks that could affect the cylinder's air-fuel mixture.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

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

2. Replace Spark Plug and Ignition Coil

  • Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, spark plug socket
  • Remove the engine cover if applicable.
  • Disconnect the ignition coil connector from cylinder 3.
  • Remove the ignition coil bolt and carefully pull out the ignition coil.
  • Remove the spark plug using the spark plug socket and inspect it for wear.
  • Install the new spark plug, tightening it to the manufacturer's specification (typically around 13-20 lb-ft).
  • Reinstall the ignition coil and bolt, ensuring it is securely fastened.
  • Reconnect the ignition coil connector.

3. Check and Replace Fuel Injector (if necessary)

  • Tools Required: Fuel injector puller (if necessary), socket set
  • If the injector is not functioning, disconnect the fuel injector connector.
  • Remove the fuel rail bolts and carefully lift the fuel rail to extract the injector.
  • Replace the faulty injector with a new one, ensuring proper O-ring placement.
  • Reattach the fuel rail and bolts, taking care to not damage any components.

4. Verify Compression (if needed)

  • Tools Required: Compression tester
  • Remove the spark plug from cylinder 3 and install the compression tester.
  • Crank the engine and take note of the compression reading.
  • If compression is low, further diagnosis is needed to check for 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
  • •Spark plug socket
  • •Compression tester
  • •Fuel injector puller (if necessary)

Parts Required

  • •Spark plug (for cylinder 3)
  • •Ignition coil (if defective)
  • •Fuel injector (if defective)

Additional Information

Error Code
P0303
Affected Component
Engine
Estimated Time
2-4 hours
Difficulty
medium
Severity
high
Tools Required
6 items
Parts Required
3 items

Related Faults

  1. why does my Toyota Corolla E140 (2006-2013) have dim headlights?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix dim headlights on your 2006-2013 Toyota Corolla E140. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Electrical5 symptoms
  2. how to reset the check engine light on my Toyota Corolla E140 (2006-2013)

    Learn how to reset the check engine light on your 2006-2013 Toyota Corolla E140. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and tools required.

    Electrical3 symptoms
  3. how to fix a slipping transmission in my Toyota Corolla E140 (2006-2013)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a slipping transmission in your 2006-2013 Toyota Corolla E140. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Transmission6 symptoms
  4. why does my Toyota Corolla E140 (2006-2013) have weak brakes

    Learn how to diagnose and fix weak brakes in a 2006-2013 Toyota Corolla E140. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Brakes6 symptoms
  5. why is my Toyota Corolla E140 (2006-2013) transmission slipping during gear changes?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix transmission slipping in Toyota Corolla E140 (2006-2013). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Transmission6 symptoms
  6. why does my Toyota Corolla E140 (2006-2013) engine light flash

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a flashing engine light in a 2006-2013 Toyota Corolla E140. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Engine6 symptoms

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