📖 READER VIEW (Read-Only, Public Access)
The check engine light illuminated, accompanied by engine sputtering and a P0300 code indicating random misfires and a loss of power.
Yesterday, as soon as the light came on
It seems random
No
No recent work
120000
Worn spark plugs, faulty ignition coils, or bad spark plug wires can lead to incomplete combustion and random misfires.
A clogged fuel filter, weak fuel pump, or dirty fuel injectors can cause an insufficient fuel supply to the engine, leading to misfires.
Unmetered air entering the engine through a leak in the intake manifold, vacuum hoses, or gaskets can disrupt the air-fuel mixture.
A dirty or faulty MAF sensor can provide incorrect air intake readings to the engine control module (ECM), leading to improper fuel metering and misfires.
🤖 AI Analysis
"Sputtering and a check engine light are classic symptoms of ignition system issues. Spark plugs are a common wear item and can cause misfires leading to sputtering. Given the mileage (120,000), it's highly probable they are due for inspection or replacement."
🤖 AI Analysis
"Ignition coils are another critical component of the ignition system. A failing coil can cause a cylinder to misfire, leading to sputtering and a check engine light. This is a very common cause of these symptoms, especially with higher mileage vehicles."
🤖 AI Analysis
"Fuel delivery issues can also cause sputtering. Low fuel pressure means the engine isn't getting enough fuel, leading to lean conditions and misfires. While not as immediately obvious as ignition issues for sputtering, it's a strong possibility."
🤖 AI Analysis
"Clogged or faulty fuel injectors can lead to an uneven fuel mixture, causing sputtering and rough running. This is a plausible cause, especially if the sputtering is somewhat random."
🤖 AI Analysis
"Vacuum leaks can cause the engine to run lean, leading to sputtering and a check engine light. A smoke test is an effective way to find these leaks, which can be difficult to spot visually."
🤖 AI Analysis
"Similar to a smoke test, visually inspecting vacuum hoses and gaskets for damage can reveal vacuum leaks. This is a more direct approach to identifying a potential cause of sputtering."
🤖 AI Analysis
"A dirty MAF sensor can send incorrect air flow readings to the ECU, leading to an improper fuel mixture and potential sputtering. Cleaning it is a relatively simple diagnostic step."
🤖 AI Analysis
"Testing MAF sensor readings can confirm if it's functioning correctly. If the readings are erratic or outside of expected parameters, it points to a MAF sensor issue that could cause sputtering."
Mar 17, 2021 ... Finally found what was causing the phantom P0300 Random cylinder misfires, and when I tell you what it was, it will blow your freaking mind.
May 19, 2025 ... You should never ignore engine code P0300 because misfires can result in very expensive repair costs. There are many things that could cause ...