Feedback

Error Code P0303: What It Means & What To Do?

OBD Code P0303 - Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected

<<See All OBD Codes

The P0303 is a generic diagnostic trouble code which would indicate an issue with the firing of cylinder 3. This code can be seen with other misfire codes as well as lean/rich condition codes. 

Learn More About OBD Error Code P0303

The trouble code P0303 would be set when the ECU would detect multiple misfires from cylinder 3. Due to the misfires, the check engine light would be set by the ECU and it would then put the vehicle into the failsafe mode to prevent damage. The check engine light would start illuminating unless and until the fault code is repaired properly.

 

What causes this problem with the Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected?

 

  • Faults in the spark plug or wire
  • There can be some defects in the coil pack
  • Defaults in the oxygen sensor
  • Flaws in the fuel injector
  • The exhaust valve might be burned
  • Some defaults in the catalytic converter
  • The compression might be bad

Replace/Repair These Parts To Fix OBD Code P0303

  1. Fuel Injector - There can be some issues with the Fuel Injector due to which you may see P0303 code appearing over and over again. Visit us to buy best quality Fuel Injector online.
  2. Camshaft Sensor - A lot of issues can arise do to defective Camshaft Sensor. Did you just see P0303 code flashing? Now you know the reason why it is appearing. Get it inspected and replaced on time.
  3. Crankshaft Sensor - Faulty Crankshaft Sensor can be the reason why P0303 code is flashing. Visit us to purchase top notch Crankshaft Sensor online.
  4. Head Gasket - It is an important auto part which needs full care. A faulty Head Gasket can be a reason behind the flashing up of P0303 code.
  5. Oxygen Sensor - Some faults in the Oxygen Sensor can give rise to P0303 code. Visit us to buy best quality Oxygen Sensor online.
  6. Powertrain Control Module - Are you facing some faults in your Powertrain Control Module? Don’t worry and get them replaced or else P0303 code can turn up.
  7. Spark Plug - Common cause behind this P0303 error code can be some fault in Spark Plug. So, it will be a good decision to replace them now.

Symptoms Of OBD Error Code P0303

You might be thinking that how would you diagnose these problems? We at Parts Avatar Canada would help you diagnose the major symptoms easily.

 

Common Symptoms

 

  • The check engine light might be illuminated
  • There can be an issue that the vehicle might be harder to start than usual
  • The vehicle might stumble or may face hesitation upon acceleration

 

There can be some cases where the vehicle might demonstrate performance problems like lack of power on acceleration, dying at stop signs, rough riding, hesitation as well as increase in the overall fuel consumption

How To Correct P0303 Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected

Looking out for some ways with the help of which you can correct this fault code? Then you have arrived at the correct place. We are here to help you out, so you must check out the steps mentioned below as follows:


  • Replace the spark plug for all cylinders
  • You can always replace the cap & rotor, coil pack, or spark plug wiring as per the requirement
  • Carefully repair the leakage in the intake
  • If there are some fuel issues, then they should be corrected
  • The issues in the engine should be fixed


There is no need to get strained if your OBD Code is still flashing up as we are here at your service. Have a look at our superior variety of Coolant Temperature Sensor, Air Fuel Ratio Sensor, Oxygen Sensor and many more. Now all your problems would vanish within no time.

Easy Diagnosis Of Engine Error OBD Code P0303

Here are some steps which you should follow in order to diagnose this fault code:

 

  • It is critical to follow all steps in the proper order so diagnose the P0303 code
  • A scan tool should be hooked up by a mechanic to check for any current, history, or pending codes
  • After that note, down all the freeze frame data
  • Clear all the codes and the vehicle should be taken out for a test drive
  • Then a visual inspection should be performed looking for wear, broken components, leaks, and damaged wiring
  • Use a scan tool to check the misfire counter for cylinder 3 during operation
  • Check long-term fuel trims to verify if any fuel or intake issues are present
  • There can be some cases where the spark plugs may be pulled and as well as inspected

 

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P0303 Code

 

  • All the steps should be carefully followed in the process of diagnosis to avoid mistakes due to which a lot of time as well as money would be wasted
  • Most of the people might overlook fuel issues or a leaking air intake as the cause of the misfire
  • Some issues with the spark plug can be the most common cause but yes, it is not the only cause of the P0303 trouble code

Other Diagnostic Codes Related To OBD Code P0303

P0301 - Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected

P0302 - Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected

P0304 - Cylinder 4 Misfire Detected

P0305 - Cylinder 5 Misfire Detected

P0306 - Cylinder 6 Misfire Detected

P0307 - Cylinder 7 Misfire Detected

P0308 - Cylinder 8 Misfire Detected

P0309 - Cylinder 9 Misfire Detected