P0303

[P0303] The scan tool indicates Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0303: Cylinder 3 misfire detected.

Description
Misfire detection is accomplished by monitoring the crankshaft speed with the crankshaft speed fluctuation sensor which is attached to the crankshaft.
If misfiring strong enough to damage the catalyst is detected, the MIL will blink during the time of its occurrence and DTC P0301, P0302, P0303 or P0304 will be stored. Then, after the misfire has ceased, the MIL will come on.
If misfiring that increases emissions is detected during two consecutive driving cycles, the MIL will come on and DTC P0301, P0302, P0303 or P0304 will be stored.

NOTE: If some of the DTCs listed below are stored at the same time as a misfire DTC, troubleshoot those DTCs first, then troubleshoot the misfire DTC.

P0107, P108, P1128, P1129: MAP sensor
P0171, P0172: Fuel metering
P0505: Idle control system
P1259: VTEC System
P1361, P1362: TDC sensor
P1381, P1382: CYP sensor
P1519: IAC valve

Possible Cause
- Fuel injector clogging, fuel leakage, air leakage
- Fuel injector circuit open or shorted
- Spark plug carbon deposits, fouling, malfunction
- Ignition wires open, leaking
- Distributor malfunction
- Compression low
- Valve clearance out of spec.