FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/BMW/3 Series/F30/F31 (2012-2019)/how to fix the P0301 misfire code in my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019)

how to fix the P0301 misfire code in my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019)

BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: mediumError Code: P03012-4 hours
3 min read
555 words

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement The P0301 code indicates a cylinder 1 misfire in a BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019), which can lead to poor engine performance and increased emissions.

Error Code
P0301
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

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

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle at startup
  • •Loss of power during acceleration
  • •Engine stalling or hesitation
  • •Increased fuel consumption
  • •Unusual engine noise from the affected cylinder

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0301 and check for additional codes.
  2. 2Inspect the spark plug and ignition coil for cylinder 1 for wear or damage.
  3. 3Check the fuel injector operation for cylinder 1 using a noid light or multimeter.
  4. 4Perform a compression test on cylinder 1 to check for mechanical issues.
  5. 5Inspect for vacuum leaks around the intake manifold and vacuum lines.
  6. 6Examine the engine for any signs of oil or coolant leaks that may affect cylinder performance.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather all necessary tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical issues.
  • Allow the engine to cool down before beginning.

2. Replace Spark Plug and Ignition Coil

  • Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, dielectric grease.
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Remove the engine cover (if applicable) by unscrewing any fasteners.
    2. Disconnect the ignition coil connector for cylinder 1.
    3. Remove the ignition coil by unscrewing it from its mount.
    4. Remove the spark plug using a spark plug socket.
    5. Inspect the old spark plug for wear; replace if necessary with the correct OEM part.
    6. Install the new spark plug to the recommended torque specification (typically around 20 Nm).
    7. Apply dielectric grease to the ignition coil connector.
    8. Reinstall the ignition coil and reconnect the electrical connector.

3. Replace Fuel Injector (if necessary)

  • Tools Required: Fuel injector removal tool, O-ring lubricant.
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Relieve the fuel system pressure by removing the fuel pump fuse and starting the engine until it stalls.
    2. Disconnect the fuel lines from the injector rail (use caution, as fuel may spray).
    3. Remove the injector harness connectors.
    4. Remove the fuel rail to access the injector.
    5. Remove the old injector and install the new one with lubricated O-rings.
    6. Reattach the fuel rail and reconnect all electrical connectors.

4. Reassemble and Test

  • Reattach any components removed during the process (engine cover, etc.).
  • Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
  • Start the engine and check for any unusual sounds or warning lights.

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

  • Sub-steps:**
  • Remove the engine cover (if applicable) by unscrewing any fasteners.
  • Disconnect the ignition coil connector for cylinder 1.
  • Remove the ignition coil by unscrewing it from its mount.
  • Remove the spark plug using a spark plug socket.
  • Inspect the old spark plug for wear; replace if necessary with the correct OEM part.
  • Install the new spark plug to the recommended torque specification (typically around 20 Nm).
  • Apply dielectric grease to the ignition coil connector.
  • Reinstall the ignition coil and reconnect the electrical connector.

Parts Required

  • Spark plug (OEM recommended)
  • Ignition coil (OEM recommended)
  • Fuel injector (if necessary)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0301
Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

9 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) won't start and just clicks

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) is experiencing a no-start condition, characterized by a clicking sound when attempting to s...

    Symptoms
    • •Engine does not crank or start
    • •Clicking noise heard when turning the ignition key
    • +{count} more
  2. why does my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) have poor acceleration?

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) is experiencing poor acceleration, which may indicate underlying mechanical or electronic is...

    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Engine stalling during acceleration
    • +{count} more
  3. why does my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) engine hesitate when accelerating

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) is experiencing engine hesitation during acceleration, which may indicate underlying perform...

    Symptoms
    • •Engine stalling during acceleration
    • •Rough or uneven idle
    • +{count} more
  4. how to fix P0420 code on my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019)

    P0420

    ## Problem Statement The vehicle is displaying a P0420 trouble code, indicating "Catalytic Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)" on a BMW 3 Series F30/...

    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Decreased engine performance
    • +{count} more
  5. how to fix BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) check engine light after repairs

    ## Problem Statement The check engine light (CEL) remains illuminated on a BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) after recent repairs, indicating that furt...

    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Error codes present in the OBD-II system
    • +{count} more
  6. how to fix BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) AC not blowing cold air

    ## Problem Statement The air conditioning system in a BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) is not blowing cold air, indicating a potential issue with the ...

    Symptoms
    • •AC compressor not engaging
    • •Warm air blowing from vents
    • +{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