P0306

Severity medium

AUTO

Cylinder 6 Misfire Detected

Also searched as: P0306 code, cylinder 6 misfire

OBD-II scanner plugged into a car diagnostic port showing a trouble code
OBD-II codes: read the code, test the component, clear it and re-check.

What it means

P0306 means misfires were detected in cylinder 6 on a six-cylinder or larger engine. On transverse V6 engines, cylinder 6 is often on the rear bank, which makes the coil and plug harder to reach.

Applies to: OBD-II vehicles 1996+ (US), EOBD vehicles (EU petrol 2001+)

How to fix P0306

  1. Reduce load and have the car checked if the check engine light flashes
  2. Swap the cylinder 6 coil with another cylinder to see if the misfire moves
  3. Inspect the cylinder 6 spark plug and replace if worn or fouled
  4. Check wiring and connectors for the cylinder 6 coil and injector
  5. Test or swap the cylinder 6 injector
  6. Compression-test cylinder 6 if the misfire remains

Why it happens

Ignition, injector, wiring or compression problems on cylinder 6; on some V6 engines a leaking intake gasket near that cylinder also causes it.

FAQ

Is it safe to drive with P0306?

Gentle, short trips with a steady light only. A flashing light means severe misfire and risk to the catalytic converter.

Related errors

P0305P0304P0303P0440P0442P0446P0455P0456

Source: open OBD-II DTC database · fixes written and reviewed by the editors (see our editorial policy)

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