P0304 on Skoda: How to Diagnose & Fix
Cylinder 4 Misfire Detected
2 Skoda models · 2 documented issues · 1 critical · $60-$3,500 repair
P0304 on Skoda by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The Fabia Mk1's combined ignition coil pack (1.4 16v MPI and related petrol engines) is a frequent failure point. When it fails the car misfires, idles roughly, loses power and may stall, with the engine management light on. Briskoda threads include owners who needed multiple coil packs (some replaced under Skoda goodwill). It is a cheap, well-known DIY fix once diagnosed.
Common Symptoms
- Engine misfire
- Rough idle
- Loss of power
- Stalling
- Engine management light (EML)
How to Fix
Read for cylinder misfire codes (P0300-P0304). Replace the coil pack (and spark plugs/HT leads if applicable) with a genuine or quality OE-equivalent unit; this usually clears the misfire and warning light.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- OE-producer 032905106F ignition module
replace a tested failed shared ignition module on the early AUA/AUB branch Fitment/availability: Skoda Fabia Mk1 1.4 16V AUA or AUB branch using the shared ignition module and high-tension leads; also listed for other engines, but this c…
- OE-producer 036905715H direct ignition coil
replace the single direct coil proven faulty by swap or waveform testing Fitment/availability: Skoda Fabia Mk1 1.4 16V BBY/BKY/BBZ or 1.2 HTP AZQ/BME as explicitly listed; confirm engine code and installed coil number, excludes AUA/AUB s…
- Genuine Skoda 03D905715A ignition coil
replace a tested failed direct coil on the AWY/BMD engine branch Fitment/availability: Skoda Fabia Mk1 1.2 HTP 40 kW AWY or BMD as explicitly listed; confirm engine code and current supersession, excludes other 1.2 and all 1.4 branches F…
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Sources for this issue (2)
Mk2 and early Mk3 Octavias with the EA111 1.2 TSI (CBZA/CBZB) and 1.4 TSI Twincharger (CAVD/CTHE) engines suffer premature timing chain tensioner failure. The tensioner cannot maintain pressure during cold starts and shutdowns, causing the chain to slap, jump teeth, or in severe cases damage valves. Common in the 50,000-80,000 mi window. Same defect affects VW Polo/Golf/Touran, Seat Ibiza/Leon, Audi A1 with these engines. VW Group issued service campaign 13D2 for tensioner replacement on some VINs.
Common Symptoms
- Rattling noise from front of engine on cold start
- Misfires P0301-P0304
- Cam-crank correlation codes P0011/P0014/P0016
- Loss of compression
- Engine refuses to start
How to Fix
Replace timing chain, tensioner (updated INA part), guides, and idler. Cost €1,200-€2,000 in EU (£1,000-£1,800 UK). If chain has jumped causing valve damage, full top-end rebuild required (€3,500+). Check oil at every fuel stop on affected models.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Skoda 03F198158B 1.2 TSI timing set
replace the diagnosed complete CBZB timing-chain system Fitment/availability: Skoda Octavia II 1.2 TSI 77 kW CBZB from 02/2010 through 04/2013 as explicitly listed; confirm engine code and VIN, excludes EA211 belt engines Fitment/availab…
- EngineTeam 03C198229C complete 1.4 TSI timing set
replace the complete diagnosed CAXA chain system with the matched chain, tensioner, guides and sprockets Fitment/availability: Skoda Octavia II 1.4 TSI 90 kW CAXA from 11/2008 through 06/2013 as explicitly listed; confirm VIN and engine …
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
P0304 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0304 mean on a Skoda?
P0304 stands for "Cylinder 4 Misfire Detected." This code means the engine computer detected a misfire in cylinder number 4 — that cylinder isn't igniting its air-fuel mixture fully or at all. The system detects this by monitoring small changes in crankshaft rotation speed as each cylinder fires. You may feel a rough idle, shaking, hesitation or reduced power, and a persistent misfire can dump unburned fuel into the exhaust and overheat or damage the catalytic converter. Since it's pinpointed to one cylinder, the problem typically lies in that cylinder's spark, fuel, or compression. On Skoda it is documented across 2 models: Fabia, Octavia.
What are the most common causes of P0304?
The most common causes of P0304 are: Worn or fouled spark plug in cylinder 4, Failed or weak ignition coil on cylinder 4, Faulty spark plug wire or boot (where applicable), Clogged, stuck or leaking fuel injector for cylinder 4, Vacuum or intake air leak near that cylinder, Low compression (worn rings, burnt/leaking valve, head gasket), Damaged wiring or connector at the coil or injector. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0304 on a Skoda?
Published repair estimates on Skoda range from $60 to $3,500 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0304 on a different make?
View P0304 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.