AutoCodes – GMC – P0304 2016 GMC Sierra

P0304 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Cylinder 4 Misfire Detected

Quick Answer

A misfiring cylinder causes slight variations in the rotational speed of the crankshaft. Common causes include Faulty Spark Plug #4, Clogged or faulty Fuel Injector #4, Faulty Ignition Coil #4. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P0304 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Cylinder 4 Misfire Detected.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Spark Plug #4, Clogged or faulty Fuel Injector #4, Faulty Ignition Coil #4.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 342

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 09, 2022

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0304 2016 GMC Sierra Description

A misfiring cylinder causes slight variations in the rotational speed of the crankshaft. The Engine Control Module (ECM) can detect these variations by closely monitoring the crankshaft position sensor signal. The signals of the camshaft position sensors are used to determine which cylinder is misfiring. If the ECM detects a misfire rate sufficient to cause emission levels to exceed mandated standards, the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set. Under certain driving conditions, a misfire rate can be high enough to cause the catalytic converter to overheat, damaging the converter. The Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) flashes when the converter is overheating, damaging conditions are present, and the DTC is set. The DTC will be set when the ECM detects a crankshaft rotation speed variation indicating a single-cylinder misfire rate sufficient to cause emissions levels to exceed mandated standards.

OBDII Code P0304 2016 GMC Sierra - Cylinder 4 Misfire Detected - AutoCodes.com — P0304 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Cylinder 4 Misfire Detected

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0304 2016 GMC Sierra?

Faulty Spark Plug #4
Clogged or faulty Fuel Injector #4
Faulty Ignition Coil #4
Fuel Injector #4 harness is open or shorted
Fuel Injector #4 circuit poor electrical connection
Ignition Coil #4 harness is open or shorted
Ignition Coil #4 circuit poor electrical connection
Insufficient cylinder 4 compression
Incorrect fuel pressure
Intake air leak

How to Fix the DTC P0304 2016 GMC Sierra?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

The P0304 code means that cylinder 4 is misfiring or is randomly misfiring. Start by checking for intake leaks and if no leaks are found the next step is to replace the spark plugs on cylinder 4. If the problem persists more tests need to be done to diagnose the problem, see "Possible Causes".

There is a Factory Service Bulletins for All 2000-2020 Chevrolet Models:
2000-2020 Chevrolet Factory Service Bulletin OBDII Code P0304
This Factory Service Bulletin explains how this condition may be caused by significant carbon build-up on the intake and/or exhaust valves due to fuel contamination or incomplete burning of the fuel.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0304 2016 GMC Sierra code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0304 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0304 mean on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

P0304 indicates a cylinder 4 misfire, meaning the engine's fourth cylinder is not firing properly, causing performance and efficiency issues.

2. What are the symptoms of a P0304 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include rough idling, reduced engine performance, poor fuel economy, hesitation during acceleration, and a flashing or steady check engine light.

3. What are the common causes of a P0304 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Potential causes include a faulty spark plug, a bad ignition coil, a clogged fuel injector, a vacuum leak, low cylinder compression, or issues with the engine control module (ECM).

4. Can I drive my 2016 GMC Sierra with a P0304 code?

Driving with a P0304 code is not recommended as it may lead to further engine damage, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential safety risks.

5. How do I diagnose the P0304 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Start by inspecting the spark plug, ignition coil, and fuel injector for cylinder 4. Then check for vacuum leaks, low compression, or wiring issues.

6. How do I fix a P0304 code on my 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include replacing the cylinder 4 spark plug or ignition coil, cleaning or replacing the fuel injector, fixing vacuum leaks, or addressing low compression.

7. How much does it cost to fix a P0304 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Costs vary depending on the issue, but spark plug or ignition coil replacement typically ranges from $100 to $300, while injector or engine repairs may be more expensive.

8. Can a dirty air filter cause a P0304 code on my 2016 GMC Sierra?

While unlikely, a severely clogged air filter might contribute to misfires by restricting airflow and affecting engine performance.

9. What tools do I need to troubleshoot a P0304 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

A basic OBDII scanner, multimeter, spark plug socket, and compression tester are commonly used tools for diagnosing this code.

10. How can I prevent the P0304 code on my 2016 GMC Sierra from occurring again?

Regular maintenance, such as replacing spark plugs and ignition components on schedule, using quality fuel, and cleaning the fuel system, can help prevent future misfires.