2011 Lexus P0304: What It Means & Is It Safe to Drive?

P0304 on the 2011 Lexus: Cylinder 4 Misfire Detected. Here's what it means, what usually causes it, what repairs typically cost, and whether it's safe to keep driving.

PowertrainHigh urgency

What this code means

Misfire confirmed on cylinder 4. On 4-cylinder engines, this is the last cylinder—check coil and plug first, then injector, then compression.

Common causes on the 2011 Lexus

  • Worn spark plug on cylinder 4
  • Failed ignition coil on cylinder 4
  • Faulty or clogged fuel injector
  • Low compression or valve issue

Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light
  • Rough idle and shaking
  • Poor acceleration or power loss

Typical fixes

  • Replace spark plug and COP coil on cylinder 4
  • Clean or replace fuel injector
  • Compression and leak-down test if basic parts check out

Repair cost range

For a 2011 Lexus, repairs for P0304 typically fall between $150 and $900, depending on the root cause and labor rates in your area.

Known issues on Lexus

Lexus IS250 4GR-FSE P0304 can indicate direct injection carbon buildup on cylinder 4 intake valves. The 4GR-FSE is pure direct injection (no port injection), making it more susceptible to carbon than the 2GR-FSE. Walnut blasting every 60k miles is recommended for the 4GR-FSE.

Most commonly affected models

IS250 4GR-FSE 2006–2015IS350 2GR-FSE 2006–2013ES350 2GR-FE 2007–2012

Is it safe to keep driving your 2011 Lexus with this code?

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

See all codes for your Lexus

Looking for a different code, or want the full guide without the year filter?