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Diagnostic code · Misfire

Honda P0300 Code: Random / Multiple Cylinder Misfire

Updated October 8, 2026Sources

On this page 4 sections
Meaning
The engine computer has detected misfires in multiple cylinders.
Checks to start with
Check the spark plugs and ignition coils first.
Safe to drive?
If the light is steady, Honda says to avoid high speeds and have the vehicle inspected immediately. If it starts flashing, stop safely.

If the check-engine light is flashing, stop safely — Honda's manual says a misfire can damage the catalytic converter.

What P0300 means

P0300 means the engine computer has detected a random or multiple-cylinder misfire over time. If the last digit were a cylinder number (P0301–P0306 on a Honda), the code would name a single cylinder. The “0” means the misfire moves between cylinders, so look for something that affects several of them at once.

P0301–P0306: when the code names a cylinder

Honda’s own service documents call P0300 “random misfire detected.” The single-cylinder codes are spelled out the same way: P0301 is “No. 1 cylinder misfire detected,” P0302 is “No. 2 cylinder misfire detected,” and so on through P0304.

A four-cylinder Honda can set P0301 through P0304. Honda’s V6 vehicles, the Pilot and Odyssey among them, can also set P0305 and P0306. If you drive one of those, there are separate guides for the Honda Pilot check engine light and the Honda Odyssey check engine light.

A cylinder-specific code names the cylinder that’s misfiring, not the part that failed. It tells you where to look, not what to replace.

A Honda-specific case: 2017–18 CR-V 1.5L turbo

American Honda ran a product update campaign for engine oil dilution on certain 2017–18 CR-Vs with the 1.5L turbo engine sold in cold-weather states. Honda’s service message for that campaign lists lack of power as a symptom, along with DTC P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304 or P0172 (fuel system too rich).

If your CR-V fits that description and the scan shows one of those codes, a Honda dealer can check whether the campaign applies to your VIN. The Honda CR-V check engine light guide covers the model’s other codes and causes.

Possible causes

  • Worn spark plugs
  • Failing ignition coil(s)
  • Vacuum / intake leak
  • Clogged or weak fuel injectors
  • Low fuel pressure

Do these checks first

  1. Scan for companion codes (lean, EVAP, coil). They can point you toward the cause.
  2. Inspect the plugs and coils. Swap one coil to a different cylinder and see if the misfire follows it.
  3. Check for vacuum leaks around the intake and PCV hoses.
COIL check here
The spark plug and the coil that fires it sit at the top of each cylinder.

FAQ

Is it safe to drive with a P0300?
If the check engine light is steady, Honda says to avoid high speeds and have the vehicle inspected immediately. If the light starts flashing, stop safely. A flashing light means an active misfire, which can damage the catalytic converter.
Can I clear the code myself?
Yes, with a basic OBD2 scanner. It will keep coming back, though, until the root cause is fixed.
Will P0300 fail an emissions test?
Yes. An active misfire monitor or stored P0300 is an automatic fail until repaired and cleared.

Sources

Owner's manual references are to the model and year named above. Wording and procedures can differ on your Honda, so check your own owner's manual.

How we source and correct →