P0306 Code (Symptoms, Causes, and How to Fix)

Cylinder misfires sap power and acceleration. So when code P0306 shows up, don’t ignore it as one faulty cylinder can hobble your ride.

We’ll explore all the common causes of a cylinder 6 misfire along with how to troubleshoot it and get the P0306 code fixed.

P0306 engine code

What Does Code P0306 Mean?

OBD-II Trouble Code P0306 Description
Cylinder 6 Misfire Detected

Code P0306 occurs when the ECM (engine control module) detects a misfire on engine cylinder number 6.

When cylinder number 6 misfires, it means that the air and fuel mixture in that cylinder has failed to ignite. As a result, the engine’s speed fluctuates, causing the crankshaft position sensor signal to vary. The ECM detects this and reports a misfire in the specific cylinder.

See Also: P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304, P0305, P0307, P0308, P0316

Symptoms of Code P0306 

Usually, there will be some noticeable signs that accompany a P0306 error code, and they include:

Causes of Code P0306 

Many things can cause the error code P0306, but these are the most common.

Faulty Spark Plug The bad spark plug may not properly fire in cylinder 6 due to insulation cracks or fouling.

Faulty Ignition Coil – Cracks in the insulation or open circuit in the ignition coil may cause it to stop firing cylinder number 6.

Worn or Damaged Spark Plug Wire – If a plug boot or spark plug is leaking ignition spark to the ground, cylinder number 6 may stop firing.

Leaky Valve Cover – If the valve cover is leaking oil into the spark plug holes, it may short the spark plug ignition for cylinder number 6. 

Low Compression – Low compression in the cylinder due to defective valves or rings may cause a misfire. 

Clogged, Dirty or Damaged Fuel Injector – Insufficient fuel in the cylinder can cause a misfire. A faulty fuel injector causes low pressure affecting the cylinders. 

Is Code P0306 Serious?

Driving with a misfiring cylinder is dangerous. A misfire in cylinder number 6 causes the engine to run excessively rich, damaging the catalyst. It also affects how your engine runs, makes it hesitate on acceleration, and uses more fuel.

DTC P0306 is not something to be ignored and should be repaired immediately. Ignoring this code can cause damage to your catalytic converter, which is quite costly to replace compared to repairing a misfiring cylinder.

See Also: P0335 Code (Crankshaft Position Sensor Malfunction)

Cost to Fix Code P0306

When dealing with code P0306, there are a few parts involved in fixing this issue. We will discuss the costs associated with each part, do keep in mind that labor rates will generally fall in the range of $80 to $140 per hour depending on your location and repair shop you choose.

Spark Plug

If you’re facing issues with your spark plugs, it’s quite an easy fix. Spark plugs typically cost between $8 and $20 each, depending on the brand and type. Replacing a spark plug should take no more than an hour of labor.

Ignition Coil

Another common issue causing code P0306 is a faulty ignition coil. These coils range in price from $50 to $150, but replacing one takes about an hour of labor.

Spark Plug Wires

Don’t overlook the spark plug wires. If they’re worn or damaged, they could be causing the misfire. Spark plug wire sets can cost anywhere from $20 to $75. Replacing them should take about an hour of labor.

Valve Cover

A leaking valve cover gasket can cause oil to enter the spark plug tubes, resulting in a misfire. Valve cover gaskets typically cost between $25 and $75, and you’ll need to add a couple of hours of labor to handle this repair.

Low Compression

Low compression in the cylinder can also cause code P0306. Resolving this issue might require engine work that can be quite expensive. It’s best to have a mechanic diagnose the issue, as the cost varies greatly depending on the required repairs.

Fuel Injector

Finally, a faulty fuel injector could be causing the misfire. Replacement fuel injectors can cost between $50 and $200. Replacing a fuel injector typically takes about an hour of labor.

How to Fix Code P0306

To fix this issue, you will need to check all the possible causes listed above. Start with these steps to work on fixing a P0306 error code.

Diagnosis

Begin by inspecting the connectors and wiring harness for any damage. Use a good OBD2 scanner to record all error codes and freeze frame data. Use this information to do a quick visual inspection of the fuel injector, ignition coils, and related wiring. 

Look for any loose connections or damaged wiring. Try removing the ignition coil and swap it with another cylinder to check if that is the problem. Clear the engine and ETC codes, then do a road test to confirm if the problem comes back.

Conduct a visual check of the spark plug. Check for any signs of damage or fouling and replace where necessary. Swap the spark plug to another cylinder and see if the misfire follows. If the ignition system is not the problem, check for any vacuum leaks related to the number 6 cylinder.

If nothing is found visually, you may need to pull up the fuel trim parameter identifiers (PID) on a scan tool. You can also use an unlit propane torch or a smoke machine to check for any vacuum leaks. 

If there are no leaks, the next step is to check the fuel injector of cylinder number 6. If no issues are found thus far, there is likely a mechanical problem somewhere.

Conduct a compression and leak-down test to confirm. Look out for any broken valve spring, carboned valve, burnt valve, damaged piston, a worn camshaft lobe, or worn piston rings.

Other Causes of Error Code P0306

Use the results you found in the diagnostic tests to fix the issue. Check whether the cylinder’s spark plugs and ignition coil are working well or not. If they are working well, another problem near these components may be causing the misfires.

Cylinder number 6 may be having compression issues due to faulty rings and valves. Check if oil is leaking from the valve cover and flowing through the holes in the spark plugs. Whatever the problem is, have it repaired immediately. The longer you wait, the more permanent the damage will be.

Mark Stevens

5 Comments

  1. Replaced plugs, wires, coil pack. After a month or so after each fix I get PO306 again. 2015 Jeep Cherokee Latitude. There is a group of wires underneath and across the back of the engine.mice, I assume chewed into the wires. They were seperated (I was told) and taped. Could this be the problem?
    I am thinking there may be poor or weak connection because of the wires being originally being chewed by the mice. Possibly poor connection?

    1. Yes, that could definitely be a problem. I would follow the wires from the cylinder 6 injector and spark plug to make sure the insulation is still good everywhere along the way. While you’re in there, repair any wires that have been chewed. Make sure to wrap them in electrical tape so any exposed wiring can’t short out.

    1. Hello, i have a 07 chevy Silverado with a 5.3LS . Had some problems with the 6 cylinder. i had the engine replaced. Ive been driving it for about 7500 miles. and the oil has been changed 4 or 5 times since. now Im getting a po306 code . I’m a retired diesel mechanic i know what a po306 is but it runs like there’s nothing wrong. am i being stupid.

      1. It’s possible the misfire is intermittent, or the NVH isolation in that truck is good enough where you don’t feel the misfire.

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