2023 Acura P0303: What It Means & Is It Safe to Drive?

P0303 on the 2023 Acura: Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected. Here's what it means, what usually causes it, what repairs typically cost, and whether it's safe to keep driving.

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What this code means

The PCM has detected a misfire specifically on cylinder 3. Diagnosis follows the same steps as P0301—swap parts to the same position on a known-good cylinder to isolate the fault.

Common causes on the 2023 Acura

  • Worn or fouled spark plug on cylinder 3
  • Failing ignition coil on cylinder 3
  • Leaking or clogged fuel injector
  • Low compression on cylinder 3

Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light, often flashing under load
  • Rough idle or shaking
  • Loss of power, hesitation

Typical fixes

  • Replace spark plug and coil on cylinder 3
  • Test and replace fuel injector
  • Compression test if ignition parts don't resolve it

Repair cost range

For a 2023 Acura, repairs for P0303 typically fall between $150 and $900, depending on the root cause and labor rates in your area.

Known issues on Acura

Acura J35/J37 V6 P0303 on the rear-bank cylinder 3 requires intake manifold removal for coil access. This is the most common cylinder for reported J-series misfires. Confirm with a coil swap to the front bank before committing to the intake removal.

Most commonly affected models

TL J35A8 2004–2008MDX J35Z 2003–2006RL J37A1 2005–2012

Is it safe to keep driving your 2023 Acura with this code?

For driving-safety guidance—how far you can go, when to tow, and what's urgent—see these checklists:

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