FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Toyota/Highlander/XU70 (2020-Present)/how to fix P0303 misfire code in Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present)

how to fix P0303 misfire code in Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present)

Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present)

Severity: highDifficulty: mediumError Code: P03032-4 hours
3 min read
564 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 systems.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool completely before starting any work on the ignition or fuel systems.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough engine idle
  • •Loss of power during acceleration
  • •Increased fuel consumption
  • •Engine stalling under load
  • •Unusual engine noises (e.g., popping or backfiring)

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle's OBD-II system for additional trouble codes.
  2. 2Inspect the spark plug and ignition coil for cylinder 3.
  3. 3Perform a visual inspection of the wiring harness and connectors related to the ignition system.
  4. 4Check fuel injector operation for cylinder 3 using a multimeter or noid light.
  5. 5Conduct a compression test on cylinder 3 to assess mechanical integrity.
  6. 6Perform a leak-down test if compression is low to identify potential issues.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather all tools and parts needed for the repair.
  • 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. Replace Spark Plug and Ignition Coil (if necessary)

  1. Remove the engine cover if applicable using a socket set.
  2. Disconnect the ignition coil connector for cylinder 3.
  3. Remove the ignition coil securing bolts and lift the coil out.
  4. Remove the spark plug using a spark plug socket and ratchet.
  5. Inspect the spark plug for wear, damage, or fouling; replace if necessary.
  6. Install the new spark plug by hand to avoid cross-threading, then torque to specifications (typically 13-16 lb-ft).
  7. Reinstall the ignition coil, securing it with bolts and reconnecting the electrical connector.

3. Check and Replace Fuel Injector (if necessary)

  1. Disconnect the fuel injector connector for cylinder 3.
  2. Remove the fuel rail assembly if needed (ensure to relieve fuel pressure first).
  3. Remove the old injector from the rail.
  4. Install the new fuel injector, ensuring proper orientation and seating.
  5. Reassemble the fuel rail and reconnect all electrical connectors.

4. Reassemble and Test

  1. Reattach the engine cover if removed.
  2. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
  3. Start the engine and allow it to idle.
  4. Monitor for any check engine light re-illuminating while checking for smooth operation.

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
  • Ratchet and extensions
  • Torque wrench
  • Spark plug socket
  • Multimeter or noid light

Parts Required

  • Spark plug (specific to the engine)
  • Ignition coil (for cylinder 3, if needed)
  • Fuel injector (for cylinder 3, if needed)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0303
Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

6 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. how to replace cabin air filter in Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present)

    Step-by-step guide to replace the cabin air filter in Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present). Improve air quality and HVAC performance with this easy f...

    Component:HVAC
    Symptoms
    • •Reduced airflow from the HVAC system
    • •Unpleasant odors inside the vehicle
    • +{count} more
  2. why does my Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present) stall at stoplights

    Learn how to diagnose and fix engine stalling issues in the 2020-Present Toyota Highlander XU70. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and rep...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Engine stalls unexpectedly when coming to a stop
    • •Rough idle before stalling
    • +{count} more
  3. why does my Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present) overheat in the summer

    Learn how to diagnose and fix overheating issues in the 2020-Present Toyota Highlander XU70. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and r...

    Component:Cooling System
    Symptoms
    • •Engine temperature gauge reading higher than normal
    • •Coolant warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • +{count} more
  4. how to check the brake pads on my Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present)

    Learn how to check the brake pads on your 2020-present Toyota Highlander XU70. Step-by-step guide for inspection and maintenance to ensure safety.

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Squeaking or squealing noise when braking
    • •Grinding sound during braking
    • +{count} more
  5. my Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present) stalls when I stop what could be wrong

    Learn how to diagnose and fix engine stalling issues in the 2020 Toyota Highlander XU70. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair inst...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Engine stalling at idle or when coming to a complete stop
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • +{count} more
  6. my Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present) has a rough start what could be the issue

    Learn how to diagnose and fix rough start issues in the 2020-Present Toyota Highlander XU70. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair ...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Engine cranks longer than usual before starting
    • •Engine shakes or vibrates during startup
    • +{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