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Home/Cars/BMW/3 Series/E90/E91 (2005-2012)/how to fix P0302 misfire code on my BMW 3 Series E90/E91

how to fix P0302 misfire code on my BMW 3 Series E90/E91

BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: mediumError Code: P03022-4 hours
4 min read
609 words

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement The vehicle is displaying a P0302 trouble code, indicating a misfire detected in cylinder 2 of a BMW 3 Series E90/E91.

Error Code
P0302
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Safety Warnings:**
  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before removing components.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle or engine shaking
  • •Decreased acceleration or power
  • •Poor fuel economy
  • •Increased exhaust emissions

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle with an OBD-II scanner to confirm the P0302 code and check for any additional codes.
  2. 2Inspect the ignition coil and spark plug for cylinder 2 visually for any signs of damage or wear.
  3. 3Check the fuel injector operation in cylinder 2 to ensure it is delivering fuel correctly.
  4. 4Perform a compression test on cylinder 2 to verify that the cylinder is sealing properly.
  5. 5Inspect the wiring and connectors associated with the ignition system and fuel injector for any signs of damage or corrosion.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather tools and materials, including an OBD-II scanner, socket set, torque wrench, spark plug socket, compression tester, and a multimeter.
  • Disconnect the vehicle battery to ensure safety while working on electrical components.

2. Replace Spark Plug and Ignition Coil

  • Remove Engine Cover: Use a socket set to unscrew and remove the engine cover.
  • Remove Ignition Coil:
    • Disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition coil.
    • Unbolt the ignition coil using a socket.
    • Pull the ignition coil out carefully.
  • Replace Spark Plug:
    • Use a spark plug socket to remove the spark plug from cylinder 2.
    • Inspect the old spark plug for wear and carbon buildup.
    • Install a new spark plug, ensuring it is gapped to the manufacturer’s specifications (usually around 0.028-0.032 inches).
    • Torque the spark plug to the manufacturer’s specification (typically around 18-25 Nm).
  • Install New Ignition Coil:
    • Insert the new ignition coil into cylinder 2 and bolt it in place.
    • Reconnect the electrical connector.

3. Test Fuel Injector

  • Inspect Fuel Injector:
    • If the spark plug and ignition coil replacement does not resolve the issue, test the fuel injector.
    • Disconnect the fuel injector wiring and use a multimeter to check for proper resistance (should be within the manufacturer’s specifications).
  • Replace Fuel Injector:
    • If faulty, remove the fuel rail to access the injector.
    • Replace with a new injector and ensure proper sealing.

4. Perform Compression Test

  • Conduct Compression Test:
    • Reconnect the battery.
    • Remove the spark plug from cylinder 2 and install the compression tester.
    • Crank the engine and record the compression reading. It should be within the manufacturer’s specified range (usually 140-200 psi).
    • If low, investigate potential internal engine issues (e.g., valve problems, head gasket).

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
  • Torque wrench
  • Spark plug socket
  • Compression tester
  • Multimeter

Parts Required

  • Spark plug (specific to BMW E90/E91)
  • Ignition coil (specific to BMW E90/E91)
  • Fuel injector (if applicable)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0302
Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

6 items

Parts

3 items

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