2008 BMW P0301: What It Means & Is It Safe to Drive?
P0301 on the 2008 BMW: Cylinder 1 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 1. Similar to P0300, but pinned to a single cylinder.
Common causes on the 2008 BMW
- Worn or fouled spark plug on cylinder 1
- Failing ignition coil or coil-on-plug
- Leaking or clogged fuel injector
- Low compression in cylinder 1
Symptoms
- Check Engine Light (often flashing when misfire is severe)
- Rough idle or shaking, especially at low RPM
- Loss of power under load
Typical fixes
- Replace spark plug and/or coil on cylinder 1
- Test and clean or replace the injector
- Perform compression test and repair internal issues if needed
Repair cost range
For a 2008 BMW, repairs for P0301 typically fall between $150 and $900, depending on the root cause and labor rates in your area.
Known issues on BMW
BMW N54's high-pressure injectors can fail and cause cylinder-specific misfires. On the N54, cylinder 1 is at the front of the engine and its injector is the easiest to access. Confirm with cylinder contribution testing via ISTA before replacement.
Most commonly affected models
335i N54 2007–2013328i N52 2006–2013X3 N52 2006–2010