P0301 Ford F-150: Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected

Quick Answer: What is P0301?

On a Ford F-150, the P0301 code means the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected that Cylinder #1 is not firing correctly. This results in unburned fuel passing into the exhaust. In Ford trucks, this is almost always caused by a failed ignition coil (COP) or a worn-out spark plug.

Severity: HIGH. Driving with a constant misfire can destroy your catalytic converter in a matter of miles. If the Check Engine Light is flashing, stop driving immediately.

Common Symptoms

Engine Shaking: Noticeable vibration at idle or under load.
Loss of Power: Significant "sluggishness" when accelerating.
Flashing CEL: The Check Engine Light blinks during heavy acceleration.
Jerking: The truck "bucks" or jerks when cruising at highway speeds.

Most Likely Causes

Failed Ignition Coil (65%): The coil on plug (COP) for cylinder 1 has failed internally.
Worn Spark Plug (20%): Excessive gap or carbon tracking on the porcelain.
Fuel Injector Issue (10%): Clogged or electrically dead injector on cylinder 1.
Low Compression (5%): Mechanical issue like a burnt valve (more common on high-mileage 5.4L engines).

Detailed Repair Cost & Labor Analysis

Estimates for Ford F-150 (V6 EcoBoost and V8 models) in the US market:

Component / Task	Aftermarket Part	OEM Motorcraft	Labor Time	Difficulty
Ignition Coil (Single)	$25 - $45	$80 - $110	0.5 hr	Very Easy
Spark Plug Set (All)	$40 - $60	$90 - $130	1.5 - 2.5 hrs	Moderate
Fuel Injector (Cyl 1)	$60 - $90	$140 - $210	2.0 - 3.0 hrs	Hard

How to Fix P0301 on a Ford F-150

Step 1: The "Swap" Test

This is the fastest way to diagnose the coil. Swap the ignition coil from Cylinder #1 with the coil from Cylinder #2. Clear the code and drive. If the code changes to P0302, you have a bad coil. If it stays at P0301, the problem is the spark plug or injector.

Step 2: Inspect Spark Plugs

Remove the plug from Cylinder #1. Check for a cracked porcelain insulator or a worn electrode. Ford engines are sensitive to spark plug gaps; ensure they are gapped exactly to factory specifications.

Step 3: Check Wiring Harness

The clips on Ford ignition coil connectors often break, leading to a loose connection. Ensure the connector "clicks" into place. If it's loose, use a zip-tie or replace the pigtail connector.