FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/BMW/3 Series/E90/E91 (2005-2012)/how to resolve the P0301 misfire code in my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012)

how to resolve the P0301 misfire code in my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012)

BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: mediumError Code: P03011-3 hours
3 min read
582 words

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement The P0301 code indicates a misfire in cylinder 1 of a BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012). This issue can lead to poor engine performance, increased emissions, and potential engine d

Error Code
P0301
Repair Time
1-3 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Safety Warnings:**
  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on the ignition system.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before opening any components.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle or engine shaking
  • •Decreased acceleration or power loss
  • •Increased fuel consumption
  • •Engine stalling during idle or low RPMs

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0301 and check for any additional codes.
  2. 2Inspect the ignition coil and spark plug for cylinder 1 for any visible damage or wear.
  3. 3Perform a compression test on cylinder 1 to determine if there are any mechanical issues.
  4. 4Check fuel injector operation for cylinder 1 using a multimeter or noid light.
  5. 5Inspect vacuum lines and intake manifold for leaks that could affect cylinder performance.
  6. 6Review the engine’s air-fuel mixture using a wideband O2 sensor if available.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
  • Allow the engine to cool before starting the work.

2. Replace Spark Plug

  • Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, spark plug socket
  • Remove the ignition coil by unbolting it and disconnecting the electrical connector.
  • Extract the old spark plug using a spark plug socket.
  • Inspect the spark plug for wear; replace it if it shows signs of damage or excessive wear.
  • Install the new spark plug and torque it to the manufacturer's specification (usually around 22 lb-ft for BMW).
  • Reconnect the ignition coil.

3. Replace Ignition Coil

  • If the spark plug replacement does not resolve the issue, proceed to check or replace the ignition coil.
  • Disconnect the ignition coil connector and remove the coil from the cylinder head.
  • Install the new ignition coil and ensure it is seated correctly.
  • Reconnect the ignition coil connector.

4. Replace Fuel Injector (if necessary)

  • If the ignition system checks out, check the fuel injector operation.
  • Disconnect the fuel line and electrical connector from the fuel injector.
  • Remove the fuel injector from the rail and replace it with a new one.
  • Reinstall the fuel rail and reconnect all lines and connectors.

5. Final Checks

  • Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
  • Clear any fault codes using the OBD-II scanner.
  • Start the engine and check for any misfire codes again.

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

  • Remove the ignition coil by unbolting it and disconnecting the electrical connector.
  • Extract the old spark plug using a spark plug socket.
  • Inspect the spark plug for wear; replace it if it shows signs of damage or excessive wear.
  • Reconnect the ignition coil.

Parts Required

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

Additional Information

Error CodeP0301
Repair Time

1-3 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

4 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. why does my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 vibrate at high speeds?

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series E90/E91 is experiencing vibrations at high speeds, which can indicate issues with the vehicle's balance, alignme...

    Symptoms
    • •Vibration felt through the steering wheel
    • •Vibration in the seat or floorboard
    • +{count} more
  2. why does my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) overheat in heavy traffic

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) is experiencing overheating issues, particularly in heavy traffic conditions, indicating a p...

    Symptoms
    • •Temperature gauge reading higher than normal
    • •Coolant warning light illuminated
    • +{count} more
  3. why does my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 shake when I brake hard?

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series E90/E91 exhibits shaking or vibrations during hard braking, indicating a potential issue with the braking system...

    Symptoms
    • •Steering wheel vibration during hard braking
    • •Shaking felt in the brake pedal
    • +{count} more
  4. what causes musty smells in my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) AC system

    ## Problem Statement A musty smell emanating from the air conditioning system in a BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) typically indicates the presence o...

    Symptoms
    • •Musty or moldy odor from the AC vents
    • •Reduced airflow from the HVAC system
    • +{count} more
  5. how to fix the weak airflow in my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) AC

    ## Problem Statement The air conditioning system in a BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) is exhibiting weak airflow, indicating potential obstructions o...

    Symptoms
    • •Weak or insufficient airflow from the AC vents
    • •Unusual noises coming from the AC blower motor
    • +{count} more
  6. what should I do if my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) smells like burning oil

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) is exhibiting a burning oil smell, which could indicate oil leaks or engine overheating issu...

    Symptoms
    • •Burning oil smell, particularly after engine operation
    • •Oil puddles or stains under the vehicle
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation