What does code P0300 mean on a Audi and is it safe to drive?
P0300: Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected. Here's what it means on your Audi, what usually causes it, what repairs typically cost, and how safe it is to keep driving.
What this code means
The PCM has detected misfires across multiple cylinders. This can cause damage to the catalytic converter if driven for long.
Common causes for your Audi
- Worn spark plugs or ignition coils
- Clogged or bad fuel injectors
- Low compression
- Vacuum leak, bad MAF, or fuel delivery issue
Symptoms
- Check Engine Light (often flashing under load)
- Rough idle, shaking, loss of power
- Possible smell of unburned fuel
Typical fixes
- Replace spark plugs and coils as needed
- Clean or replace fuel injectors
- Fix vacuum/fuel issues
- Compression test if no obvious cause
Repair cost range
For a Audi, repairs for P0300 often fall between $150 and $1200, depending on the cause and whether you use OEM or aftermarket parts. Labor rates vary by location.
Known issues on Audi
Audi P0300 on EA113 2.0T FSI (2006–2008 A4, A6) is very commonly caused by carbon buildup on intake valves—the FSI direct-injection engine accumulates significant deposits; walnut blasting is the fix. On EA888 Gen 1 2.0T TFSI (2009–2012), timing chain stretch causes variable cam timing and intermittent P0300 on cold starts. On S4 3.0T supercharged, the HPFP cam follower wear reduces fuel pressure and causes lean misfires—inspect the follower through the HPFP port every 20k miles.
Most commonly affected models