FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Toyota/RAV4/Fourth Generation (2013-2018)/how to fix P0301 misfire code on Toyota RAV4 Fourth Generation (2013-2018)

how to fix P0301 misfire code on Toyota RAV4 Fourth Generation (2013-2018)

Toyota RAV4 Fourth Generation (2013-2018)

Severity: highDifficulty: mediumError Code: P03012-4 hours
3 min read
583 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix P0301 cylinder 1 misfire in Toyota RAV4 (2013-2018). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Error Code
P0301
Component
Engine
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before performing any work to prevent burns.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle
  • •Decreased acceleration and power
  • •Increased fuel consumption
  • •Engine stalling
  • •Possible engine vibration

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 in cylinder 1 for wear, damage, or improper gap.
  3. 3Check the ignition coil for signs of failure or damage.
  4. 4Inspect the fuel injector for cylinder 1 for clogs or malfunction.
  5. 5Perform a compression test on cylinder 1 to check for mechanical issues.
  6. 6Examine the engine wiring harness and connectors related to the ignition and fuel systems for damage or corrosion.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather tools and parts required.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and the engine is cool.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shocks.

2. Replace Spark Plug

  • Tools Required: Spark plug socket, ratchet, torque wrench
  • Remove the ignition coil from cylinder 1 by unscrewing the mounting bolt and pulling it out.
  • Use the spark plug socket to remove the old spark plug from cylinder 1.
  • Inspect the old spark plug for signs of fouling or damage.
  • Install a new spark plug, ensuring it is gapped correctly (typically between 0.043 to 0.047 inches).
  • Torque the spark plug to the manufacturer's specifications (usually around 13 lb-ft).

3. Replace Ignition Coil

  • Tools Required: Socket set
  • If the ignition coil is suspected to be faulty, remove the coil from cylinder 1 by unscrewing it.
  • Install the new ignition coil and secure it with the mounting bolt.
  • Reconnect the electrical connector to the ignition coil.

4. Clean or Replace Fuel Injector

  • Tools Required: Injector cleaning kit (if cleaning), or a socket set (if replacing)
  • If the fuel injector is clogged, remove the fuel injector from cylinder 1.
  • Clean it using an appropriate injector cleaning solution or replace it with a new injector.
  • Reinstall the cleaned or new fuel injector into cylinder 1 and secure it.

5. Reassemble and Reconnect

  • Reattach the ignition coil and any wiring harnesses you may have disconnected.
  • Reconnect the negative battery terminal.

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
  • Spark plug socket
  • Ratchet
  • Torque wrench
  • Socket set
  • Injector cleaning kit (if cleaning)

Parts Required

  • Spark plug for cylinder 1
  • Ignition coil for cylinder 1 (if necessary)
  • Fuel injector for cylinder 1 (if necessary)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0301
Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

6 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. my Toyota RAV4 battery drains overnight what can I do

    Learn how to diagnose and fix battery drain issues in your Toyota RAV4. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Battery warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Engine fails to start in the morning
    • +{count} more
  2. why is my Toyota RAV4 hesitating when I accelerate?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix acceleration hesitation in Toyota RAV4. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Hesitation or stuttering when pressing the accelerator
    • •Decreased power during acceleration
    • +{count} more
  3. why does my Toyota RAV4 hesitate when I accelerate from a stop?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix acceleration hesitation in Toyota RAV4. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Hesitation or lag when pressing the accelerator pedal
    • •Rough or uneven acceleration
    • +{count} more
  4. how to diagnose if my Toyota RAV4 Fourth Generation (2013-2018) has a fuel pump issue

    Learn how to diagnose and fix fuel pump issues in Toyota RAV4 (2013-2018). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions...

    Component:Fuel System
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Engine cranks but fails to start
    • +{count} more
  5. why does my Toyota RAV4 engine shake when idling

    Learn how to diagnose and fix engine shaking at idle in Toyota RAV4. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Engine vibrations noticeable at idle
    • •Rough idle quality
    • +{count} more
  6. how to fix my Toyota RAV4 heater that only blows cold air

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a Toyota RAV4 heater that only blows cold air. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:HVAC
    Symptoms
    • •No warm air from the vents
    • •Cold air persists regardless of temperature settings
    • +{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