What does P0304 mean?
Cylinder 4 Misfire Detected
Direct Answer
P0304 indicates a misfire in cylinder 4. On 4-cylinder engines, cylinder 4 is typically at the opposite end of the engine from cylinder 1. The coil-swap diagnostic method is the fastest way to isolate the cause.
Common Symptoms
- ✓Check engine light on
- ✓Rough idle
- ✓Poor power
- ✓Engine vibration
Common Causes
- 01Worn or fouled spark plug
- 02Faulty coil on cylinder 4
- 03Failed injector
- 04Low cylinder compression
How to Fix P0304
Coil swap test
Swap cylinder 4 coil with cylinder 2. If misfire moves to P0302, replace the coil.
Replace spark plug
Check for wear, oil fouling, or carbon buildup.
Injector test
Noid light test confirms injector signal. Injector cleaner or professional cleaning for partially clogged units.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a bad catalytic converter cause P0304?
No — it's the reverse. P0304 (misfire) causes catalytic converter damage, not the other way around. A bad catalytic converter can cause back-pressure issues that affect performance but does not directly cause cylinder-specific misfires.
Estimated Repair Cost
$30–$1500
Spark plug: $10–$50. Coil: $50–$200. Injector: $150–$400.
Safe to Drive?
No — avoid driving
Stop if light is flashing. Limit driving otherwise.
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