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Ignition Error Codes: P0302 & P0303

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Old Mar 11, 2015 | 03:26 PM
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Default Ignition Error Codes: P0302 & P0303

Hi, Everyone. I am new here. If I am not follow standard protocol, just point me in the right direction. I have owned my 2008 F-150 for a little over a year, and I have really had no issues before now. I left the house a couple days ago, and the truck was running just fine. After being out for about 45 minutes running errands, the truck just started hesitating very badly. I made it to an auto parts store and their computer showed the error codes P0302 & P0303. If I am using the proper code database, this indicates that cylinders 2 & 3 are misfiring. According to OBD-CODES.com the causes can be one or more of the following:

  • Faulty spark plug or wire
  • Faulty coil (pack)
  • Faulty oxygen sensor(s)
  • Faulty fuel injector
  • Burned exhaust valve
  • Faulty catalytic converter(s)
  • Running out of fuel
  • Poor compression
  • Defective computer
My question is, is the above list of possible causes also the order in which you would attack trying to fix the issue? I am asking, because I plan to try all that I can to fix this myself. I would not consider myself a complete novice, but I would be close, since I have not had much experience at auto mechanics. I have changed spark plugs and wires in my VW and Chrysler in the past, performed oil changes, and other remedial tasks, but that is a far cry from thorough engine mechanics. Regarding the list above, I think I would start to get nervous after getting to the point on the list of replacing the injectors. I obviously don't want to bite off more than I can chew, and if I have to, I will take it to a local mechanic. However, I would much rather do this myself, and have something to teach my son later. Any help/direction is appreciated.

Last edited by TN_Buckeye; Mar 11, 2015 at 04:27 PM.
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Old Mar 11, 2015 | 04:30 PM
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Originally Posted by TN_Buckeye
Hi, Everyone. I am new here. If I am not follow standard protocol, just point me in the right direction. I have owned my 2008 F-150 for a little over a year, and I have really had no issues before now. I left the house a couple days ago, and the truck was running just fine. After being out for about 45 minutes running errands, the truck just started hesitating very badly. I made it to an auto parts store and their computer showed the error codes P0302 & P0303. If I am using the proper code database, this indicates that cylinders 2 & 3 are misfiring. According to OBD-CODES.com the causes can be one or more of the following:

  • Faulty spark plug or wire
  • Faulty coil (pack)
  • Faulty oxygen sensor(s)
  • Faulty fuel injector
  • Burned exhaust valve
  • Faulty catalytic converter(s)
  • Running out of fuel
  • Poor compression
  • Defective computer
My question is, is the above list of possible causes also the order in which you would attack trying to fix the issue? I am asking, because I plan to try all that I can to fix this myself. I would not consider myself a complete novice, but I would be close, since I have not had much experience at auto mechanics. I have changed spark plugs and wires in my VW and Chrysler in the past, performed oil changes, and other remedial tasks, but that is a far cry from thorough engine mechanics. Regarding the list above, I think I would start to get nervous after getting to the point on the list of replacing the injectors. I obviously don't want to bite off more than I can chew, and if I have to, I will take it to a local mechanic. However, I would much rather do this myself, and have something to teach my son later. Any help/direction is appreciated.


You could start by telling us what engine you have in it.
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Old Mar 11, 2015 | 04:33 PM
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Originally Posted by Rnlcomp
You could start by telling us what engine you have in it.
probably a 5.4 I'm guessing
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Old Mar 11, 2015 | 04:39 PM
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Default Engine Info

Originally Posted by Ford Fan#1
probably a 5.4 I'm guessing
Sorry, fellas. You're right, it is a 5.4 Triton.
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Old Mar 11, 2015 | 04:58 PM
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How many miles on it?
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Old Mar 11, 2015 | 05:01 PM
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Originally Posted by Rnlcomp
How many miles on it?
123k
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Old Mar 11, 2015 | 05:26 PM
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Originally Posted by TN_Buckeye
123k
Start with a compression check, make sure all cylinders are pumping at least 100 psi and variance between cylinders of no more than 15%, if that proves out ok then put in a new set of plugs (already out for compression test)and take it for a test drive.
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Old Mar 11, 2015 | 05:39 PM
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So, I need to go buy a compression test kit?
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Old Mar 11, 2015 | 05:48 PM
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Originally Posted by TN_Buckeye
So, I need to go buy a compression test kit?
If you can't find someone that already has one, yes. There are 3 things that make the engine work,

Fire
Fuel
Compression

No amount of fuel or fire is going to compensate an engine with a compression problem. Or you could just throw parts at it and hope it gets fixed.

$25
Amazon.com: INNOVA 3612 Compression Tester - 4 Piece Kit: Automotive Amazon.com: INNOVA 3612 Compression Tester - 4 Piece Kit: Automotive
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Old Mar 11, 2015 | 09:05 PM
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Remove the right side O2 sensor before the first catalytic converter and run some test drives. You will get O2 codes but if you have a clogged cat it will run better with the sensor removed.

https://www.f150forum.com/f4/06-5-4-...-fires-291476/
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