The OBD code P0303 for Ford indicates a misfire in cylinder 3. This affects the engine’s performance, causing symptoms like engine light on, lack of power, hard starting, and engine hesitation.
Common causes include a faulty spark plug, clogged fuel injector, or ignition coil issues.
While not an immediate danger, it can lead to further engine damage if left unresolved.
A possible fix involves inspecting and repairing the components related to cylinder 3, such as spark plugs, fuel injectors, and ignition coils, along with checking wiring harnesses and connectors for any damage.
| Repair Importance Level | 10.0 (Out of 10) |
| Estimated Repair Time | Approximately 1.0 hour |
| Repair Difficulty Level | 10.0 (Out of 10) |
Symptoms of the Ford p0303 OBD Code
The vehicle may experience rough idling or a noticeable lack of power under load.
- With Ford OBD code P0303, the engine light will be ON.
- Lack/loss of power may be experienced.
- Hard starting can occur.
- Engine hesitation might be noticeable.
Causes of the Ford p0303 OBD Code
Fault code P0303 on a Ford indicates a misfire in cylinder 3.
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- P0303 for Ford can be caused by: Faulty Spark Plug #3.
- Clogged or faulty Fuel Injector #3.
- Faulty Ignition Coil #3.
- Fuel Injector #3 harness is open or shorted.
- Fuel Injector #3 circuit poor electrical connection.
- Ignition Coil #3 harness is open or shorted.
- Ignition Coil #3 circuit poor electrical connection.
- Insufficient cylinder 3 compression.
- Incorrect fuel pressure.
- Intake air leak.
Fixing Ford Error Code p0303 Step By Step
Address the misfire in cylinder 3 on a Ford by checking spark plugs and ignition components.
- To fix a Ford OBDII code P0303, start by reviewing the possible causes related to cylinder 3 misfire.
- Visually inspect the ignition system components such as spark plugs, ignition coils, and spark plug wires for any signs of wear or damage.
- Check the fuel injector for proper operation and ensure it is delivering fuel to the cylinder.
- Test the compression in cylinder 3 to verify the engine’s mechanical condition.
- If all components check out, consider swapping the ignition coil with another cylinder to see if the misfire follows.
- Finally, reset the vehicle’s engine control module (ECM) to clear the code and monitor the vehicle for any recurring issues.
Cost Of Fixing Ford p0303 Fault Code
The repair for Ford P0303 (Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected) may involve replacing spark plugs or ignition coils.
The cost to diagnose and fix the Ford OBD code P0303 typically ranges from $75 to $150 per hour for labor rates.
With an estimated repair time of 1. 0 hour, the total cost can be around $75 to $150, depending on shop rates and the complexity of the repair.
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Details of the Ford p0303 OBD Code
Ford code P0303 indicates a misfire in cylinder 3 of the engine.
Code P0303 means a misfire was detected in cylinder 3. It’s triggered by the ECM based on crankshaft speed fluctuations.
This code indicates that there is a misfire in the third cylinder of the engine.
Misfires can be caused by issues such as faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, fuel injectors, vacuum leaks, or low compression in the cylinder.
The ECM monitors the crankshaft speed to detect variations that indicate a misfire in a specific cylinder, in this case, cylinder 3.
Mechanic’s Tech Notes
For Ford code P0303, cylinder 3 misfire detected, check spark plug, ignition coil, and fuel injector.
To diagnose and fix OBDII code P0303 on a Ford, focus on cylinder 3 misfire.
Start by checking spark plug condition, ignition coil operation, and fuel injector performance for cylinder 3. Use a voltmeter to test the ignition coil and fuel injector circuits for proper voltage and continuity.
Inspect the wiring harness and connectors for any damage or corrosion.
Consider swapping components between cylinders to see if the issue follows.
A scan tool can help monitor live data and identify specific cylinder misfires.
Clear the code after repairs and test drive to confirm the fix.
FAQ
Common causes of OBD code P0303 in a Ford: Faulty Spark Plug #3, Clogged Fuel Injector #3, Faulty Ignition Coil #3, or poor electrical connections.
Diagnose P0303 on Ford for misfire: Check spark plug, fuel injector, ignition coil #3. Inspect wiring harness, connectors for damage, corrosion. Fix as needed.
It is not safe to continue driving with OBD code P0303 on a Ford. Check and repair faulty spark plug, fuel injector, ignition coil, or related components immediately.
Wrap Up
If your Ford is running rough with OBD code P0303, it may indicate a misfire in cylinder 3. Possible causes include a faulty spark plug, ignition coil, fuel injector, or low compression in that cylinder.
To address Ford OBD code P0303, start by inspecting the spark plug, ignition coil, and fuel injector for cylinder 3. Check for any signs of damage or wear.
Perform a compression test to ensure proper cylinder compression.
Additionally, examine the wiring harness and connectors related to these components for any issues.
