Engine-Codes - Ford - P0301 Ford

P0301 Ford Code - Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected

- Code Popularity: 134,026 Views
- Repair Importance Level: 3/3
- Repair Difficulty Level: 3/3
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What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0301 Ford?

NOTE: The causes shown may not be a complete list of all potential problems, and it is possible that there may be other causes.
  • Faulty Spark Plug #1
  • Clogged or faulty Fuel Injector #1
  • Faulty Ignition Coil #1
  • Fuel Injector #1 harness is open or shorted
  • Fuel Injector #1 circuit poor electrical connection
  • Ignition Coil #1 harness is open or shorted
  • Ignition Coil #1 circuit poor electrical connection
  • Insufficient cylinder 1 compression
  • Incorrect fuel pressure
  • Intake air leak

Code Tech Notes

The P0301 code means that cylinder #1 is misfiring or is randomly misfiring. Start by checking for intake leaks and if no leaks are found the next step is to replace the spark plugs on cylinder #1. If the problem persists more tests need to be done to diagnose the problem. See "Possible Causes" for the most common problems.

There is a Factory Service Bulletin for the 2011 Ford Mustang:
2011 Ford Mustang Factory Service Bulletin OBDII Code P0301
The Factory Service Bulletin recommends reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to resolve the problem.


2004 FORD F150 P0171, P0174, P0301, Misfire, and Lean Condition





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How to Fix the DTC P0301 Ford?

Check the 'Possible Causes' listed above. Visually inspect the related wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and look for broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded connector pins.

Search for P0301 Ford Questions and Answers: Search here →

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

The cost to diagnose the P0301 Ford code is 1.0 hour of labor. The diagnosis time and labor rates at auto repair shops vary depending on the location, make and model of the vehicle, and even the engine type. Most auto repair shops charge between $75 and $150 per hour.

What are Code Possible Symptoms?

  • Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)
  • Lack/loss of power
  • Hard start
  • Engine hesitation

What Does the P0301 Ford Code Mean?

Misfire is defined as a lack of combustion in a cylinder due to the absence of a spark, incorrect fuel metering, low compression, or any other cause.
When a misfire occurs, engine speed will fluctuate. If the engine speed fluctuates enough to cause the Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor signal to vary, the Engine Control Module (ECM) can determine that a misfire is occurring.
The Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) blinks once per second when detecting a misfire severe enough to cause catalyst damage. If the MIL is in a steady state due to a misfire, this indicates the threshold for emissions was exceeded and caused the vehicle to fail an inspection and maintenance tailpipe test.
This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) sets when the misfire detection monitor detects an engine misfire in cylinder 1.

P0301 Ford Code - Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected

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