2018 Ram P0301: What It Means & Is It Safe to Drive?
P0301 on the 2018 Ram: 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 2018 Ram
- 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 2018 Ram, repairs for P0301 typically fall between $150 and $900, depending on the root cause and labor rates in your area.
Known issues on Ram
Ram 5.7L HEMI P0301 can indicate an MDS lifter collapse on cylinder 1, one of the four deactivation cylinders. Check for oil consumption and a ticking noise before replacing the coil. On 3.6L Pentastar Ram 1500, the cam follower wear issue applies—swap the coil first, then inspect the follower if a tick is present.
Most commonly affected models
Ram 1500 5.7L HEMI 2009–2021Ram 1500 3.6L Pentastar 2012–2021Ram 2500 6.4L HEMI 2014–2021