Engine-CodesNissan – P0304 2004 Nissan Maxima

P0304 2004 Nissan Maxima Code - Number 4 Cylinder Misfire Detected

Quick Answer

The diagnostic trouble code P0304 for a 2004 Nissan Maxima indicates that a misfire has been detected in the number 4 cylinder of the engine. Common causes include Faulty spark plug in cylinder 4, Failing ignition coil for cylinder 4, Clogged or malfunctioning fuel injector for cylinder 4. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P0304 2004 Nissan Maxima indicates Number 4 Cylinder Misfire Detected.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty spark plug in cylinder 4, Failing ignition coil for cylinder 4, Clogged or malfunctioning fuel injector for cylinder 4.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 12, 2024
💬 Need more help? Ask Auto Expert for instant answers — it's free!
AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play

Code P0304 2004 Nissan Maxima Description

The diagnostic trouble code P0304 for a 2004 Nissan Maxima indicates that a misfire has been detected in the number 4 cylinder of the engine. This means that the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber of cylinder 4 is not igniting properly, leading to a loss of power, rough idling, and potentially increased emissions. A misfire can be caused by a variety of issues, including problems with the ignition system, fuel system, or engine mechanical components.

OBDII Code P0304 2004 Nissan Maxima - Number 4 Cylinder Misfire Detected
P0304 2004 Nissan Maxima Code - Number 4 Cylinder Misfire Detected

Common Causes of P0304 2004 Nissan Maxima

  1. Faulty spark plug in cylinder 4
  2. Failing ignition coil for cylinder 4
  3. Clogged or malfunctioning fuel injector for cylinder 4
  4. Vacuum leak in the intake manifold affecting cylinder 4
  5. Low compression in the number 4 cylinder due to worn piston rings or valves

Symptoms of P0304 2004 Nissan Maxima

  1. Loss of power or acceleration
  2. Rough idling or shaking while driving
  3. Engine misfires or hesitation during acceleration
  4. Increased fuel consumption
  5. Check Engine Light illuminated on the dashboard

How to Fix P0304 2004 Nissan Maxima

  1. Diagnose the specific cause of the misfire by performing a comprehensive engine inspection and using a scan tool to identify the cylinder affected.
  2. Replace the faulty spark plug in cylinder 4 and inspect the remaining spark plugs for wear or damage.
  3. Test the ignition coil for cylinder 4 and replace if necessary.
  4. Clean or replace the fuel injector for cylinder 4 to ensure proper fuel delivery.
  5. Check for vacuum leaks in the intake manifold and repair any leaks found.

Cost to Fix P0304 2004 Nissan Maxima

The typical repair costs for addressing a misfire in the number 4 cylinder of a 2004 Nissan Maxima can range from $100 to $500, depending on the specific cause of the issue and the parts needed for the repair. This estimate includes the cost of replacement spark plugs, ignition coils, fuel injectors, and any additional components required. It is important to note that labor rates at auto repair shops can vary, with hourly rates typically ranging between $80 and $150. Factors such as location, vehicle make and model, and engine type can also impact the overall repair costs. It is recommended to obtain a detailed quote from a trusted mechanic or repair shop to determine the exact cost for addressing the misfire in cylinder 4.

Tech Notes for P0304 2004 Nissan Maxima

The P0304 code means that cylinder #4 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 #4. If the problem persists more tests need to be done to diagnose the problem. See "Possible Causes" for the most common problems.

Need more information about the P0304 2004 Nissan Maxima code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0304 2004 Nissan Maxima code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0304 2004 Nissan Maxima code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0304 2004 Nissan Maxima Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0304 on a 2004 Nissan Maxima?

- Common symptoms include engine misfires, rough idling, loss of power, and a noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency.

2. What is the main cause of OBDII code P0304 on a 2004 Nissan Maxima?

- The main cause of code P0304 is a misfire in the number 4 cylinder, which can be due to issues like faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors.

3. How can I diagnose the source of the misfire in the number 4 cylinder of my 2004 Nissan Maxima?

- You can diagnose the issue by performing a thorough inspection of the spark plugs, ignition coils, fuel injectors, and the engine's compression levels.

4. Can a dirty or clogged fuel injector cause OBDII code P0304 on a 2004 Nissan Maxima?

- Yes, a dirty or clogged fuel injector can disrupt the fuel-air mixture in the number 4 cylinder, leading to a misfire and triggering code P0304.

5. What are some repair tips for addressing OBDII code P0304 on a 2004 Nissan Maxima?

- Repair tips include replacing the spark plugs, ignition coils, and fuel injectors in the number 4 cylinder, checking for vacuum leaks, and performing a fuel system cleaning.

6. Are there any other possible causes of OBDII code P0304 on a 2004 Nissan Maxima besides ignition system issues?

- Yes, other possible causes include a vacuum leak, low compression in the number 4 cylinder, or problems with the engine's timing.

7. Is it safe to continue driving my 2004 Nissan Maxima with OBDII code P0304?

- It is not recommended to drive with a misfire as it can cause further damage to the engine and emissions system. It's best to address the issue promptly.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0304 on a 2004 Nissan Maxima?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the exact cause of the misfire, but it may range from $100 to $500 or more, including parts and labor.

9. Will resetting the OBDII code P0304 on my 2004 Nissan Maxima make the issue go away?

- Simply resetting the code will not fix the underlying issue causing the misfire. It's important to diagnose and repair the root cause of the problem.

10. Can a DIY enthusiast with basic automotive knowledge fix OBDII code P0304 on a 2004 Nissan Maxima?

- Depending on the exact cause of the misfire, some repairs like replacing spark plugs or ignition coils can be done by a DIY enthusiast. However, more complex issues may require professional assistance.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0304 2004 Nissan Maxima OBDII Code

Code P0304 2004 Nissan Maxima comments

No comments found for this page.