Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Circuit Description
PCM uses pulses from the crankshaft position sensor to determine the position and RPM of the engine at various degrees of rotation. PCM can then base misfire diagnostics on the principle that crankshaft velocity will increase as each cylinder contributes its power input. Under certain conditions, the PCM will perform a series of tests to determine misfire percentage on a cylinder based on crankshaft velocity variation. The MIL will flash if an active catalyst damaging misfire occurs (20-100 percent) and will stay on steady if an emission related misfire (2-19 percent) is present after 2 consecutive trips. The MIL will turn off after 3 consecutive passed trips meeting the same misfire criteria or 80 passed trips if the criteria has not been met.
DTC P0301 (Cyl. 1), P0302 (Cyl. 2), P0303 (Cyl. 3) or P0304 (Cyl. 4) will set if a misfire has been detected after a series of tests when engine speed when engine speed is 469-7188 RPM, traction control fuel cut-off is not active, coolant temperature is 20-244Β°F (-7 to 118Β°C), throttle change is not rapid, not in decel fuel cut-off mode, ignition voltage at 8-15 volts and no TP sensor, CKP, IAT, MAT or ECT DTCs have been set. Misfire diagnostics are continuously checked with engine running when these conditions have been met.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.