Diagnostics

P0304: Cylinder 4 Misfire — Causes and Fixes

2/18/2026
5 min read
P0304: Cylinder 4 Misfire — Causes and Fixes — Diagnostics guide

Key Takeaway

P0304 targets cylinder 4. Here's the diagnosis checklist.

P0304 = Cylinder 4 Misfire

CheckWhat to Look ForCost to Fix
Spark plugWorn electrode, oil fouling$20 – $40
Ignition coilWeak or no spark$50 – $150
Fuel injectorRestricted flow$150 – $300
Valve sealOil burning in cylinder$500 – $1,500
CompressionLow reading on cyl 4$1,000+
How to diagnose P0304: Cylinder 4 Misfire — Causes and Fixes — OBD2 car scanner guide
P0304: Cylinder 4 Misfire — Causes and FixesDiagnostics diagnostic guide

Cylinder 4 Notes

On inline-4 engines, cylinder 4 is at the end and may have different heat characteristics. Some engines are more prone to coil failure on this cylinder.

Diagnosis

Use the swap test: move coil to another cylinder, clear code, drive. If misfire follows the coil = bad coil. If it stays = spark plug, injector, or internal issue.

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