FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Toyota/Highlander/Fourth Generation (2020-present)/how to fix P0301 misfire code in my Toyota Highlander Fourth Generation (2020-present)

how to fix P0301 misfire code in my Toyota Highlander Fourth Generation (2020-present)

Toyota Highlander Fourth Generation (2020-present)

Severity: highDifficulty: mediumError Code: P03012-4 hours
3 min read
586 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 P0301 cylinder 1 misfire in Toyota Highlander. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Error Code
P0301
Component
Engine
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

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

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle when the engine is running
  • •Decreased acceleration and power
  • •Engine stalling or hesitating during acceleration
  • •Poor fuel economy
  • •Increased exhaust emissions

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle's OBD-II system using a scanner to confirm the P0301 code and check for any additional codes.
  2. 2Inspect the ignition coil and spark plug for cylinder 1 for signs of wear or damage.
  3. 3Check the fuel injector for cylinder 1 to ensure it is functioning correctly.
  4. 4Perform a compression test on cylinder 1 to rule out mechanical issues.
  5. 5Inspect the engine wiring harness and connectors related to the ignition system for any damage or corrosion.
  6. 6Verify the engine's vacuum system for leaks that could affect performance.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

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

2. Inspect and Replace Spark Plug

  1. Remove the engine cover (if applicable) using a socket set.
  2. Disconnect the ignition coil connector on cylinder 1.
  3. Remove the ignition coil using a socket wrench.
  4. Use a spark plug socket to remove the spark plug.
  5. Inspect the spark plug for wear; replace if necessary with a new spark plug that meets OEM specifications.
  6. Install the new spark plug by hand, then torque it to the manufacturer's specifications (typically around 13 lb-ft).
  7. Reinstall the ignition coil and reconnect the connector.

3. Check and Replace Ignition Coil

  1. If the spark plug is in good condition, test the ignition coil using a multimeter.
  2. If the ignition coil is faulty, remove it and replace it with a new OEM ignition coil.
  3. Reconnect the ignition coil connector and ensure it is secured properly.

4. Inspect and Clean Fuel Injector

  1. If the ignition coil and spark plug are functioning properly, inspect the fuel injector for cylinder 1.
  2. Remove the fuel injector connector and fuel rail bolts, then carefully pull the fuel rail from the engine.
  3. Remove the fuel injector and clean it using a fuel injector cleaning kit or replace it with a new injector if necessary.
  4. Reinstall the injector and fuel rail, ensuring all seals are in place.

5. Final Checks

  1. Reconnect the battery.
  2. Start the engine and allow it to idle for a few minutes to ensure the misfire code does not reappear.

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
  • Multimeter
  • Spark plug socket
  • Fuel injector cleaning kit

Parts Required

  • Spark plug (OEM recommended)
  • Ignition coil (if faulty)
  • Fuel injector (if necessary)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0301
Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

6 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. Are there any common problems with the 2020 Toyota Highlander’s heating system?

    Learn about common heating system issues in the 2020 Toyota Highlander, including symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:heating system
    Symptoms
    • •Inadequate Heat Output
    • •Unusual Odors
    • +{count} more
  2. Are there any known issues with the adaptive cruise control in the 2021 Highlander?

    Discover common issues, symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions for the adaptive cruise control system in the 2021 Toyota Highlander.

    Component:adaptive cruise control system
    Symptoms
    • •Adaptive Cruise Control Not Engaging
    • •Inconsistent Speed Maintenance
    • +{count} more
  3. What are the common electrical faults in the Highlander XU70 model?

    Explore common electrical faults in the Toyota Highlander XU70, including symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Electrical System
    Symptoms
    • •The vehicle won’t start even after a short period of inactivity.
    • •Warning lights may flicker or dim when trying to start.
    • +{count} more
  4. What could cause my 2022 Toyota Highlander to stall unexpectedly?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix unexpected stalling issues in your 2022 Toyota Highlander with this comprehensive guide.

    Component:fuel delivery system, electrical system, throttle body, idle air control
    Symptoms
    • •Engine shuts off suddenly while driving.
    • •Difficulty restarting the engine.
    • +{count} more
  5. What are the symptoms of a failing transmission in a 2022 Toyota Highlander?

    Learn about the symptoms of a failing transmission in a 2022 Toyota Highlander, including slipping gears, delayed engagement, unusual noises, and more...

    Component:transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Slipping Gears
    • •Delayed Engagement
    • +{count} more
  6. What can cause my 2020 Toyota Highlander to overheat?

    Learn about the common causes of overheating in your 2020 Toyota Highlander, symptoms to watch for, and diagnostic steps to take.

    Component:Cooling System
    Symptoms
    • •Temperature Gauge Reading
    • •Warning Lights
    • +{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