FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Toyota/Highlander/Fourth Generation (2020-present)/how to fix P0303 misfire code in Toyota Highlander Fourth Generation (2020-present)

how to fix P0303 misfire code in Toyota Highlander Fourth Generation (2020-present)

Toyota Highlander Fourth Generation (2020-present)

Severity: highDifficulty: mediumError Code: P03032-4 hours
3 min read
567 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 Highlander. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Error Code
P0303
Component
Engine
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

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

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle or hesitation during acceleration
  • •Reduced engine power
  • •Increased fuel consumption
  • •Engine stalling or misfiring sounds from the engine bay

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle's onboard diagnostics (OBD-II) for additional error codes.
  2. 2Inspect the spark plug in cylinder 3 for wear or damage.
  3. 3Check the ignition coil for proper function and connection.
  4. 4Perform a compression test on cylinder 3 to assess engine health.
  5. 5Inspect fuel injectors for clogs or malfunction.
  6. 6Examine wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather tools and parts required for the repair.
  • Ensure safety by parking the vehicle on a flat surface and securing it with wheel chocks.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shock.

2. Inspect and Replace Spark Plug

  • Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, spark plug socket.
  • Remove the ignition coil from cylinder 3:
    1. Disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition coil.
    2. Remove the mounting bolts and lift the coil out.
  • Remove the spark plug using the spark plug socket:
    1. Turn counterclockwise to loosen and remove.
  • Inspect the spark plug for wear; replace if necessary.
    • Use a spark plug with the correct heat range and gap specifications.
  • Install the new spark plug:
    1. Thread in by hand to avoid cross-threading.
    2. Torque to manufacturer specifications (typically around 13-16 lb-ft).
  • Reinstall the ignition coil:
    1. Position it back over the spark plug and secure with mounting bolts.
    2. Reconnect the electrical connector.

3. Check and Replace Ignition Coil (if necessary)

  • If the ignition coil is found to be faulty during inspection, replace it:
    1. Follow the same removal steps as above.
    2. Install the new ignition coil by reversing the removal steps.

4. Inspect and Clean Fuel Injector

  • Tools Required: Fuel injector cleaner, appropriate cleaning kit.
  • If injector issues are suspected:
    1. Disconnect the fuel injector connector.
    2. Remove the fuel injector from the rail (follow service manual for specific steps).
    3. Clean the injector using a fuel injector cleaning kit or replace if damaged.

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
  • Fuel injector cleaning kit

Parts Required

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

Additional Information

Error CodeP0303
Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

5 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. How can I diagnose a battery drain issue in my 2020 Highlander?

    Learn how to diagnose and resolve battery drain issues in your 2020 Toyota Highlander with this detailed guide.

    Component:Battery and electrical system
    Symptoms
    • •Frequent Jump Starts
    • •Dimming Lights
    • +{count} more
  2. What should I do if my 2020 Highlander won't start?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix starting issues with your 2020 Toyota Highlander. Follow our step-by-step guide to troubleshoot battery, fuses, starter ...

    Component:Battery, Fuses, Starter Motor, Ignition System, Fuel System
    Symptoms
    • •Dashboard lights illuminate but the engine does not crank.
    • •No lights on the dashboard when attempting to start.
    • +{count} more
  3. How do I fix a stuck throttle in my 2022 Toyota Highlander?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a stuck throttle issue in your 2022 Toyota Highlander with this step-by-step guide, including symptoms, diagnostic steps...

    Component:throttle body, throttle position sensor
    Symptoms
    • •Engine RPMs too high
    • •Unresponsive accelerator pedal
    • +{count} more
  4. How can I diagnose battery drainage issues in a 2021 Toyota Highlander?

    Learn how to diagnose and troubleshoot battery drainage issues in your 2021 Toyota Highlander with this comprehensive step-by-step guide.

    Component:Battery and electrical system
    Symptoms
    • •Frequent dead battery
    • •Dim interior lights
    • +{count} more
  5. What are the common fuel injector problems reported in the 2020 Toyota Highlander?

    P0200

    Learn about common fuel injector problems in the 2020 Toyota Highlander, including symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Fuel Injector
    Symptoms
    • •Engine Misfire
    • •Poor Fuel Economy
    • +{count} more
  6. Why does my 2022 Toyota Highlander have a strong fuel smell?

    Learn how to diagnose and repair a strong fuel smell in your 2022 Toyota Highlander with our step-by-step guide.

    Component:Fuel system
    Symptoms
    • •Strong fuel smell, particularly after refueling or during driving
    • •Possible fuel odor inside the cabin or around the vehicle
    • +{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