2005 Mercury P0301: What It Means & Is It Safe to Drive?

P0301 on the 2005 Mercury: 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 2005 Mercury

  • 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 2005 Mercury, repairs for P0301 typically fall between $150 and $900, depending on the root cause and labor rates in your area.

Is it safe to keep driving your 2005 Mercury 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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