P0301 means your engine's computer has detected repeated misfires specifically in cylinder 1. Unlike P0300 which flags random misfires across multiple cylinders, this code points to a localised problem with that cylinder's spark plug, ignition coil, fuel injector, or compression, making targeted diagnosis more straightforward.
DTC/P0301·Renault
P0301 on Renault: Causes, Symptoms and Fix Cost
Quick Answer
High SeverityNot safe to driveRenault
P0301 on a Renault means your engine's computer has detected repeated misfires specifically in cylinder 1. Unlike P0300 which flags random misfires across multiple cylinders, this code points to a localised problem with that cylinder's spark plug, ignition coil, fuel injector, or compression, making targeted diagnosis more straightforward.
Repair cost on Renault€35 - €1700
What does P0301 mean on a Renault?
Renault Megane
2006-2024The 1.2 TCe (H5Ft) engine has a known issue with piston ring failure on cylinder 1 causing oil consumption and misfires. Renault extended the warranty to 100,000 km on affected 2013-2017 models. The 1.5 dCi can develop injector problems triggering P0301.
What causes P0301 on a Renault?
Beyond the generic causes listed on the main P0301 page, these are the Renault-specific patterns we see most often:
Renault MeganePiston ring failure on 1.2 TCe causing oil burning in cylinder 1
Renault MeganeInjector failure on 1.5 dCi
How to diagnose P0301 on a Renault with OBD2
Follow these steps to pinpoint the root cause of P0301:
- Read freeze-frame data to check RPM, load, and coolant temperature at the time of the misfire
- Swap the ignition coil from cylinder 1 with another cylinder and clear codes. If the misfire follows the coil, replace it
- Remove and inspect the spark plug on cylinder 1 for wear, carbon fouling, or oil deposits. Replace if worn or gap is out of spec
- Use a stethoscope or noid light to confirm the fuel injector on cylinder 1 is clicking and receiving signal
- Perform a compression test on cylinder 1 and compare to adjacent cylinders. A difference greater than 10% indicates an internal engine issue
How much does P0301 cost to fix on a Renault? (EUR)
Estimated repair costs on a Renault (Renault costs align with the average for this code across makes).
Prices estimated as of May 2026. Costs vary by region, vehicle, and shop.
Related codes that often appear with P0301 on Renault
These codes commonly cluster with P0301 on Renault vehicles:
FAQ: P0301 on Renault
What does P0301 mean on my car?
P0301 means your engine control unit has detected that cylinder 1 is not firing correctly. Each combustion event in that cylinder is monitored via crankshaft speed variations, and when enough misfires are counted, the code is stored.
Can a bad spark plug cause P0301?
Yes. A worn, fouled, or incorrectly gapped spark plug is the single most common cause of a single-cylinder misfire code. Replacing the spark plug on cylinder 1 is the first and cheapest step to try.
How do I find cylinder 1 on my engine?
Cylinder numbering varies by manufacturer. On most inline-4 engines, cylinder 1 is at the timing belt or chain end. On V-engines, check your owner's manual as it may be on either bank. The firing order label on the engine cover can also help.
Can I drive with a P0301 code?
It is not recommended. Continued misfires send unburned fuel into the catalytic converter, which can overheat and fail. If the check engine light is flashing, stop driving immediately to prevent expensive converter damage.
Why does P0301 appear alongside P0300?
P0300 logs when misfires are detected across multiple cylinders. If cylinder 1 misfires frequently enough, P0301 is also set. Fix cylinder 1 first, clear codes, and see if P0300 returns. It may have been triggered by cylinder 1 alone.
Looking for the full P0301 reference (all makes, full diagnosis flow, complete repair cost matrix)?
See the main P0301 guideSkanyx · Renault
Diagnosing P0301 on your Renault?
Connect any Bluetooth OBD2 adapter, scan for codes, and get AI-powered diagnostics with severity ratings and repair cost estimates.
Download Skanyx