FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Volkswagen/Golf/Eighth Generation (2020-present)/how to fix P0301 code in Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

how to fix P0301 code in Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

Severity: highDifficulty: mediumError Code: P03012-4 hours
4 min read
630 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 Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation. 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 opening any components.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle or unstable engine performance
  • •Loss of power during acceleration
  • •Increased fuel consumption
  • •Engine vibrations noticeable from the cabin

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle's onboard diagnostics using an OBD-II scanner to confirm the P0301 code and check for any additional codes.
  2. 2Inspect the ignition coil and spark plug for cylinder 1 visually for signs of wear or damage.
  3. 3Perform a compression test on cylinder 1 to check for mechanical issues.
  4. 4Test the fuel injector operation for cylinder 1 using a noid light or multimeter.
  5. 5Verify the fuel pressure using a fuel pressure gauge to ensure adequate delivery.
  6. 6Check the wiring and connectors to the ignition coil and fuel injector for damage or corrosion.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Tools Required: OBD-II scanner, multimeter, compression tester, fuel pressure gauge, socket set, torque wrench.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shorts.
  • Allow the engine to cool before starting work.

2. Replace Spark Plug

  • Remove the ignition coil from cylinder 1:
    • Disconnect the electrical connector.
    • Unbolt the coil using a socket wrench.
  • Remove the spark plug using a spark plug socket.
  • Inspect the old spark plug for signs of wear, fouling, or damage.
  • Install a new spark plug:
    • Apply anti-seize compound to the threads (if recommended).
    • Torque the spark plug to manufacturer specifications (typically around 20 Nm).
  • Reinstall the ignition coil:
    • Bolt it back in place and reconnect the electrical connector.

3. Replace Ignition Coil (if necessary)

  • If the ignition coil appears damaged or was not functioning correctly, replace it:
    • Remove the faulty ignition coil as described above.
    • Install the new ignition coil and ensure it is seated correctly.
    • Reconnect the electrical connector.

4. Test Fuel Injector

  • If misfire persists, check the fuel injector:
    • Disconnect the fuel injector connector.
    • Use a noid light to test the injector pulse.
    • If no pulse is detected, inspect wiring and the engine control module (ECM).
  • If the injector is faulty, replace it:
    • Remove the injector from the fuel rail.
    • Install the new injector and reconnect the fuel line.

5. Verify Fuel Pressure

  • Connect a fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail:
    • Turn the ignition to the "ON" position without starting the engine to check pressure.
    • Ensure it meets the manufacturer’s specifications (usually around 3-5 bar).
  • If pressure is low, check the fuel pump and filter.

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
  • Multimeter
  • Compression tester
  • Fuel pressure gauge
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Noid light

Parts Required

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

Additional Information

Error CodeP0301
Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

7 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. how to address a misfire in my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

    P0300-P0304

    Learn how to diagnose and fix engine misfire issues in Volkswagen Golf (2020-present). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instru...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Rough idle or engine shaking
    • +{count} more
  2. how to diagnose rough idle in my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix rough idle issues in your 2020-present Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation. Step-by-step guide with symptoms and solutions...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Engine vibrations felt in the cabin
    • +{count} more
  3. my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present) has a hard starting issue when warm

    Learn how to diagnose and fix hard starting issues in Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair inst...

    Component:Fuel System
    Symptoms
    • •Engine cranks but does not start easily
    • •Longer cranking time than usual
    • +{count} more
  4. how to troubleshoot the ignition system in my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

    Learn how to troubleshoot and fix ignition system issues in your Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and ...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Engine misfires or runs rough
    • +{count} more
  5. my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present) is losing power during acceleration, what could...

    Learn how to diagnose and fix loss of power during acceleration in Volkswagen Golf (2020-present). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and r...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Engine stalling or hesitating during acceleration
    • +{count} more
  6. how to fix a leaking sunroof in my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

    Learn how to fix a leaking sunroof in your 2020-present Volkswagen Golf. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Body/Interior
    Symptoms
    • •Water pooling on the interior headliner
    • •Dripping water from the sunroof area
    • +{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