P0300: Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
Can you still drive? Not recommended. A flashing check engine light means the catalytic converter could be damaged. Reduce driving and get it fixed immediately.
What Does P0300 Mean?
Code P0300 indicates that the engine control module has detected misfires occurring in multiple cylinders at random. Unlike cylinder-specific misfire codes, P0300 points to a problem that affects the entire engine rather than a single cylinder, such as a vacuum leak, fuel delivery issue, or ignition system fault.
Need to read your codes?
An OBD-II scanner lets you read and clear diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle's computer. Most scanners work with any car made after 1996.
Browse OBD-II Scanners on AmazonCommon Causes
- Worn spark plugs or ignition coils
- Vacuum leak
- Low fuel pressure
- Clogged fuel injectors
- Failed head gasket
- Worn or stretched timing chain/belt
Symptoms
- Check engine light flashing
- Rough idle
- Hesitation or stumbling during acceleration
- Reduced power
- Increased exhaust emissions
Diagnostic Steps
- 1Read freeze frame data to identify conditions during misfire
- 2Check for vacuum leaks using smoke test
- 3Inspect spark plugs and ignition coils
- 4Test fuel pressure at the fuel rail
- 5Perform compression test on all cylinders
- 6Check for intake manifold gasket leaks
Recommended Parts & Tools
ignition coil pack
fuel injector cleaner
Estimated Repair Cost
| Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Total Repair Cost Range | $100 - $2500 |
| Parts Only (DIY) | $50 - $200 |
| Labor (1-3 hrs @ $100/hr) | $100 - $300 |
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Chat with AI About P0300Commonly Affected Vehicles
Related Recalls
1 Active Recall — 2026 Ford F-150
The following NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for this vehicle. Contact your dealer to check if your vehicle is affected.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INTEGRATED TRAILER BRAKE CONTROL
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2026 F-150, 2022-2026 F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, Maverick, 2024-2026 Ranger, 2023-2026 F-600 SD, 2022-2027 Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, and 2026 E-Transit vehicles. When towing a trailer, the integrated trailer module (ITRM) may lose communication with the vehicle, possibly causing a loss of brake and turn signal lights, or a loss of brake function. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Remedy: The integrated trailer module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed March 17, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C10. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning March 17, 2026.
Data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a random misfire mean?
A random misfire means the engine is misfiring across multiple cylinders rather than just one, pointing to a systemic issue like fuel delivery or vacuum leak.
Can bad gas cause P0300?
Yes, contaminated or low-quality fuel is a common cause of random misfires. Try running a tank of premium fuel with fuel injector cleaner.
Is P0300 expensive to fix?
It depends on the cause. Spark plugs are inexpensive, but a failed head gasket or fuel pump can cost over $1,000.
Community Fix Reports
Community reports are user-submitted and not verified by Auto AI Buddy. Results may vary.
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