2018 Q60 Red Sport - Random Check Engine Light (P0300)

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David L. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:06 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Infiniti Q60 Red Sport 400

My 2018 Infiniti Q60 Red Sport 400 has been throwing a random Check Engine Light (CEL) with a P0300 code – Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected. It's really intermittent. Sometimes it comes on after a cold start, sometimes after hard acceleration, and then it might go off on its own after a few drive cycles.

I haven't noticed any significant performance issues, no rough idling, no obvious power loss, and no specific cylinder misfire codes (like P0301, P0302, etc.), just the P0300. I've checked the spark plugs, and they look okay. Could this be an electrical issue with a sensor or wiring rather than a mechanical misfire?

It's a bit concerning, and I want to get to the bottom of it before it potentially causes bigger problems. Any common electrical culprits for a P0300 on these VR30DDTT engines?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A P0300 code (Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected) on a 2018 Infiniti Q60 Red Sport, especially without specific cylinder codes, can indeed point to something beyond just spark plugs or coils. The VR30DDTT engine is sensitive to several factors.

  1. Fuel System Issues: While not strictly electrical, a failing fuel pump, clogged fuel filter, or dirty fuel injectors can cause random misfires. The fuel pressure sensor (electrical component) could also be faulty, giving incorrect readings.
  2. Ignition System: Even if spark plugs look okay, a failing ignition coil pack (electrical component) can cause intermittent misfires. Since it's random, it might be one coil starting to fail, or a wiring issue to multiple coils.
  3. Vacuum Leaks: A vacuum leak can cause unmetered air to enter the engine, leading to a lean condition and misfires. This isn't electrical, but it's a common cause of P0300.
  4. Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) / Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP): A failing CKP or CMP sensor can send erratic signals to the Engine Control Module (ECM), causing it to misinterpret engine timing and register false or actual misfires across multiple cylinders. These are critical electrical sensors.
  5. Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor: A dirty or faulty MAF sensor can provide incorrect air intake readings to the ECM, leading to an improper air/fuel mixture and potential misfires.
  6. ECM Software/Firmware: In rare cases, a software glitch in the ECM itself could cause erroneous misfire detection.

When to See a Shop: Given the intermittent nature and the P0300 code, it's best to have your 2018 Infiniti Q60 Red Sport professionally diagnosed. A qualified technician will:

  • Check for pending codes and freeze frame data associated with the P0300.
  • Perform live data monitoring of fuel trims, MAF readings, and O2 sensor readings.
  • Test the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors for proper signal output.
  • Inspect wiring harnesses for damage or corrosion, especially to ignition coils and sensors.
  • Perform a smoke test to check for vacuum leaks.
  • Potentially perform a cylinder contribution test to pinpoint any weak cylinders.

Addressing this promptly can prevent potential catalytic converter damage from unburnt fuel.