ezOBD2 - Free OBD2 Code Lookup and Check Engine Light Diagnostic Tool

Find Your OBD2 Code Fast

Type the code from your scanner to get causes, symptoms, and fixes.

Code P0302

Quick reference

P0302 at a glance

Plain-language meaning
Your car's engine is like a band, and each cylinder is a musician. Cylinder 2 is not playing its part right, causing the engine to run rough.
Urgency
Moderate – Misfires should be addressed soon to prevent damage to the catalytic converter.
Difficulty
Moderate
System
Engine Performance
Tools mentioned
OBD-II scanner, Spark plug socket and wrench, Multimeter, Compression tester, Fuel injector tester

This summary uses the existing diagnostic information shown in full below.

Laymans terms

Your car's engine is like a band, and each cylinder is a musician. Cylinder 2 is not playing its part right, causing the engine to run rough.

Explanation

The engine control module (ECM) has detected that cylinder 2 is not firing properly.

Technical description

The P0302 code indicates that the engine's second cylinder is experiencing misfires. This means that the combustion process in that cylinder is not happening as it should, which can lead to a rough running engine, increased emissions, and reduced fuel efficiency.

Symptoms

• Check Engine Light is on

• Rough engine idle

• Poor fuel economy

• Loss of engine power

• Engine hesitation

Common Causes

• Faulty spark plug in cylinder 2

• Faulty ignition coil in cylinder 2

• Fuel injector malfunction in cylinder 2

• Vacuum leak near cylinder 2

• Low compression in cylinder 2

Glossary

OBD-II: On-Board Diagnostics, a system for self-diagnosing and reporting vehicle issues.

ECM: Engine Control Module, the computer that controls engine functions.

Misfire: Failure of the air/fuel mixture in a cylinder to ignite properly.

Diagnosis steps

• Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the P0302 code

• Inspect the spark plug in cylinder 2 for wear or damage

• Check the ignition coil for proper operation

• Test the fuel injector for cylinder 2

• Perform a compression test on cylinder 2

Repair procedures

• Replace the spark plug in cylinder 2

• Replace or repair the ignition coil for cylinder 2

• Clean or replace the fuel injector for cylinder 2

• Repair any vacuum leaks near cylinder 2

• Address any compression issues in cylinder 2

Tools required

• OBD-II scanner

• Spark plug socket and wrench

• Multimeter

• Compression tester

• Fuel injector tester

Estimated repair cost

$100 - $500

Difficulty level

Moderate

Commonly affected vehicles

• Honda Accord

• Toyota Camry

• Ford F-150

Preventive measures

• Regularly replace spark plugs

• Perform routine engine maintenance

• Use quality fuel

Error code type

Engine Performance

User experience recommendations

• Do not ignore the Check Engine Light

• Address misfire issues promptly to avoid further damage

Warranty information

Repairs may be covered under the vehicle's powertrain warranty if applicable.

Historical data

Misfire codes like P0302 have been common since the introduction of OBD-II systems, often related to ignition and fuel system issues.

Urgency level

Moderate – Misfires should be addressed soon to prevent damage to the catalytic converter.

Testing conditions

• Engine at operating temperature

• Vehicle in idle or under load

Component location

Cylinder 2 is located in the engine block, typically the second cylinder in the firing order.

FAQs

Q: Can I drive my car with a P0302 code?
A: It's not recommended to drive for long periods with a misfire, as it can damage the catalytic converter.

Q: Will a P0302 code cause my car to fail emissions testing?
A: Yes, a misfire can increase emissions and cause your car to fail an emissions test.

Optional diagnostic gear

Tools that may help diagnose P0302

THINKCAR ThinkScan Bidirectional diagnostic tool illustration

High-End · Full-system diagnostics

THINKCAR ThinkScan Bidirectional

A full-system bidirectional platform aimed at advanced DIY users and professional diagnostic workflows.

Network faults often require full-system access instead of a generic code reader alone.

View on Amazon
Klein Tools MM325 diagnostic tool illustration

Universal · Digital multimeter

Klein Tools MM325

A solid entry-level multimeter for voltage, continuity, resistance, and basic electrical troubleshooting.

Helpful for checking voltage drops, grounds, and basic circuit health when modules are not communicating.

View on Amazon
WORKPRO Wiring Repair Kit diagnostic tool illustration

Universal · Wire connectors and repair kit

WORKPRO Wiring Repair Kit

Useful when diagnosis points toward damaged wiring, corroded terminals, or connector repairs.

Useful if diagnosis points toward damaged connectors, wiring, or terminal repairs.

View on Amazon

These are optional diagnostic tools, not guaranteed fixes. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Fitment matters

Commonly referenced parts for P0302

NGK Spark Plugs product illustration

Fitment Required · Vehicle-fitment part

NGK Spark Plugs

Commonly relevant for misfire, ignition-efficiency, and some drivability-related repairs.

Misfire and ignition-related faults commonly involve spark plugs as part of the repair path.

Check the correct plug type, gap, and engine application for your vehicle.

View options on Amazon
Delphi Ignition Coil product illustration

Fitment Required · Vehicle-fitment part

Delphi Ignition Coil

Relevant when the fault points toward ignition-coil performance or cylinder-specific ignition issues.

Some ignition faults involve coil performance or cylinder-specific coil problems.

Match the coil to your engine and confirm the failed component before ordering.

View options on Amazon

These parts may be related to this fault category, but a code by itself does not confirm exact fitment or guarantee that replacing a part will solve the problem.

Source: ezOBD2 diagnostic database
🌙