2007 Kia P0301: What It Means & Is It Safe to Drive?
P0301 on the 2007 Kia: 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 2007 Kia
- 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 2007 Kia, repairs for P0301 typically fall between $150 and $900, depending on the root cause and labor rates in your area.
Known issues on Kia
Kia's Theta-II GDI engine mirrors Hyundai's carbon buildup problem. P0301 on turbocharged Optima and Sportage models can also indicate an injector balance issue—check fuel trim data on cylinder 1 before replacing the coil.
Most commonly affected models
Optima Theta-II 2011–2019Sportage 2.4L 2011–2016Soul 2.0L 2014–2019