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2017 Lancer GT Rough Idle and Misfire - Check Engine Light On

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:06 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer GT

My 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer GT has been acting up lately. The engine started idling really rough, especially when I'm stopped at a light. It feels like it's shaking more than usual. Yesterday, the Check Engine Light came on, and the car felt like it was struggling to accelerate, almost like it was losing power.

I managed to get it to an auto parts store, and they pulled a P0301 code, indicating a misfire in cylinder 1. What could be causing this in a relatively new car? Any common issues with the 2.4L engine in the Lancer GT that would lead to this?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 4:06 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A P0301 code specifically points to a misfire in cylinder 1, which means one of the critical components responsible for combustion in that cylinder isn't functioning correctly. This is a common issue that can affect any gasoline engine, including the 2.4L in your 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer GT.

Common Causes for P0301 (Cylinder 1 Misfire):

  1. Bad Spark Plug: A worn, fouled, or incorrectly gapped spark plug in cylinder 1 can prevent proper ignition.
  2. Faulty Ignition Coil: The ignition coil delivers high voltage to the spark plug. If the coil for cylinder 1 is failing, it won't produce a strong enough spark.
  3. Clogged Fuel Injector: A dirty or malfunctioning fuel injector in cylinder 1 can restrict fuel delivery, leading to a lean mixture and misfire.
  4. Vacuum Leak: A vacuum leak near cylinder 1 could cause unmetered air to enter, disrupting the air-fuel ratio.
  5. Compression Issues: Less common but more serious, low compression in cylinder 1 (due to worn piston rings, valve issues, or a blown head gasket) will also cause a misfire.

Diagnostics & What to Do:

  1. Swap Components: A common diagnostic step is to swap the spark plug and ignition coil from cylinder 1 with a known good cylinder (e.g., cylinder 2). If the misfire moves to cylinder 2 (P0302), then the swapped component is faulty.
  2. Inspect Spark Plug: Visually inspect the spark plug from cylinder 1 for signs of fouling, wear, or damage.
  3. Check Fuel Injector: A mechanic can test the fuel injector's electrical signal and spray pattern. Sometimes, a fuel system cleaner can help with minor clogs.
  4. Perform Compression Test: If basic checks don't reveal the issue, a compression test will indicate if there's a mechanical problem with cylinder 1.
  5. Scan for Other Codes: While P0301 is specific, other codes (e.g., P0171 - System Too Lean, P0420 - Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold) could provide additional clues.

When to See a Shop:

  • As soon as possible: Driving with a persistent misfire can cause unburnt fuel to enter the catalytic converter, leading to overheating and expensive damage to the catalytic converter. It also reduces engine performance and fuel economy. A professional can quickly diagnose and resolve the root cause.
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