2002 Protege 0303 Misfire Code
I'm looking to repair my 2002 Protege. I don't have complex tools. I'm getting an 0303 code which makes sense because I'm having stalling probs after start up. I've done research and am seeing it's either plugs or starter coils. Replaced sparks two years ago. Money's tight and getting to/back from the autoparts place is a challenge so I'd rather get it done in one trip if possible.
No CE light.
Starts fine with no problem then stutters when put into D. Once it gets going, it drives but I'm looking to fix the prob immediately.
I'm reading the same things over and over: Plugs or Coils.
Would sparks go in a year or two?
Had a CE light last year and a P1569. I removed the solenoid & cleaned it. CE light went off and everything was fine.
Along with the 0303 the 1569 code is back but no CE light.
Any suggestions?
No CE light.
Starts fine with no problem then stutters when put into D. Once it gets going, it drives but I'm looking to fix the prob immediately.
I'm reading the same things over and over: Plugs or Coils.
Would sparks go in a year or two?
Had a CE light last year and a P1569. I removed the solenoid & cleaned it. CE light went off and everything was fine.
Along with the 0303 the 1569 code is back but no CE light.
Any suggestions?
Last edited by MrDIY; Jul 2, 2025 at 04:48 PM.
Ignition Coil Tube Casing 1 (Engine Left)
Ignition Coil Tube Casing 2 (Engine Right)
The Wires look fine. Ignition coils are about a year old. Only damage visible are some scratches on coil tube. They don’t look melted.
Both coil packs tested fine with an em.
Coils look brand new. Plug maybe?
I’m pretty sure the whole thing was toast because the plugs were fine but not being able to replace a .50 spring is a kick in the pants.
Bummer. A problem with coils deep in the head is the tubes ark thru making a tiny pinhole for the spark to leak. You can find them with a little bit of enginuity but I see more coli failures than plugs. Saying that plugs are cheap and an easy fix if it's them.
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