P0304 is a generic OBD-II trouble code that means: Engine (Cylinder 4) – Misfire Detected. Avoid driving. This fault can cause stalling, overheating or expensive damage (such as to the catalytic converter or engine).
What does P0304 mean?
P0304 is a generic OBD-II trouble code that means: Engine (Cylinder 4) – Misfire Detected. The engine control module (ECM) stores this code when it detects a fault related to: Engine (Cylinder 4).
Can I still drive?
Avoid driving. This fault can cause stalling, overheating or expensive damage (such as to the catalytic converter or engine).
Symptoms
- Check engine light flashing
- Rough or unstable idle
- Loss of power
- Hesitation or jerking when accelerating
- Higher fuel consumption
Common causes
- Worn spark plugs
- Faulty ignition coil or plug wire
- Clogged or leaking fuel injector
- Vacuum or intake air leak
- Low compression or a mechanical engine problem
How to fix it
- Read all stored codes and freeze-frame data with an OBD-II scanner
- Swap the ignition coil or spark plug to another cylinder and see if the fault follows it
- Replace the spark plugs if they are worn or due for service
- Check for vacuum and intake leaks (a smoke test is the fastest method)
- Run a compression test
- Clear the code and road-test the car to confirm the repair
- If unsure, have a qualified mechanic diagnose it
Frequently asked questions
What does code P0304 mean?
P0304 is a generic OBD-II trouble code that means: Engine (Cylinder 4) – Misfire Detected. The engine control module (ECM) stores this code when it detects a fault related to: Engine (Cylinder 4).
What causes code P0304?
The most common causes are: Worn spark plugs; Faulty ignition coil or plug wire; Clogged or leaking fuel injector; Vacuum or intake air leak.
How do I fix code P0304?
Start with these steps: Read all stored codes and freeze-frame data with an OBD-II scanner; Swap the ignition coil or spark plug to another cylinder and see if the fault follows it; Replace the spark plugs if they are worn or due for service; Check for vacuum and intake leaks (a smoke test is the fastest method).
Is it safe to drive with code P0304?
Severity: High. Avoid driving. This fault can cause stalling, overheating or expensive damage (such as to the catalytic converter or engine).