P0302 on Ford Ranger
Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected
Methodology: Reviewed against the SAE J2012 generic DTC definition and NHTSA owner-complaint patterns, then scoped to Ford Ranger context without treating complaints as confirmed diagnoses.
Sources: SAE/OBD-II definitions, manufacturer service information, and public reliability reports (including NHTSA where applicable).
- SAE J2012 Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions — Generic diagnostic trouble code definition reference for P0302.
- NHTSA recalls, complaints, and manufacturer communications — Used to check public owner complaint context, recall status, and safety-related manufacturer communications by VIN or vehicle.
Limits: Guidance is informational and may not match every model-year or revision. Confirm with the official manual and diagnostics before replacing parts. For safety-critical or electrical work, use a qualified technician.
What P0302 Means on Your Ford Ranger
P0302 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected. This code relates to the ignition system system. The vehicle's computer detected a condition outside normal operating parameters and stored this code.
Real Ford Ranger Owner Reports
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
"Vehicle stalled in middle of an intersection at 46,00 miles and was found to have lean codes p0171 and p0174-they replaced the intertia switch. vehicle went in for service and a po306 cylinder misfire, but paperwork stated could not duplicate."
"2006 ford ranger 3.0l-2v vulcan engine. mil on various misfire related dtc's p0300 - po306 and p0316 ford technical service bulletin reference number: 05-26-3 date of issue 12/31/05 my 2006 ranger with 35,000 mi displays all for the issues indicated on this tsb."
"My truck experienced a P0302 misfire on the freeway, which caused it to shake immediately and made it very difficult to drive. I had it towed to the dealership, and they told me there was water in the spark‑plug wells, which was surprising since I live in Las Vegas, NV, where it rarely rains."
All reports filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year
Common Causes on Ford Ranger
Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.
What To Do Next
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1
Check for recalls on YOUR VIN
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If your vehicle is covered, repairs are free.
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2
Get a proper diagnosis
A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.
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3
Compare repair quotes
Get 2–3 quotes. Dealer vs. independent shop prices often differ 30–50% for the same repair.