2017 Volkswagen P0304: What It Means & Is It Safe to Drive?

P0304 on the 2017 Volkswagen: 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.

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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 2017 Volkswagen

  • 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 2017 Volkswagen, repairs for P0304 typically fall between $150 and $900, depending on the root cause and labor rates in your area.

Known issues on Volkswagen

VW EA888 P0304 on cylinder 4 (last cylinder) is a common carbon buildup location. Cylinder 4 intake valves can accumulate deposits faster due to heat. If a coil swap doesn't move the fault, intake valve cleaning is likely needed.

Most commonly affected models

Jetta 2.0T 2011–2018Golf TSI 2012–2019Passat 1.8T 2012–2018

Is it safe to keep driving your 2017 Volkswagen 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 Volkswagen

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