CEL and P0301 Fault

[DIY527]

Just purchased an 02' C2 996 a few months ago w/36k. Car has been running great w/ no issues until today. Drove into work this morning and parked the car uneventfully. Several hours later, I went to go grab some lunch- but shortly after starting the car up and pulling out of the parking lot, the CEL came on (at aprox 15mph). Using an OBD-II code reader, the only thing that came up was a P0301 (cylinder 1 misfire). I thought maybe since I cleaned out the TB a few days ago I might have a loose hose somewhere. However, after rechecking all the connections, clearing out the code, and resetting the DME, the engine still ran rough at idle. The CEL did not come on again until I hit aprox 15MPH and then another P0301 code registered.

After searching this forum, am I right to assume my next step should be to check the coil/spark plug? Any other thoughts?

Thanks

[Loren]

:welcome:

P0301 Misfire, cylinder 1

I would erase the code and see if it comes back.

If it does - Check your spark plug coil, electrical connection, and if needed spark plug.

[DIY527]

Thanks Loren-

I put the car up on jacks and took a look underneath. Sure enough, didn't take long to see that I have a cracked coil.

I assume the primary cause for the coil erosion likely stems from the tube depicted in the picture. Can I assume this is a water drainage tube that should probably be routed somewhere else?

-Rob

Edited August 8, 2009 by DIY527

[DIY527]

Changed out the #1 coil today and that did the trick - no more CEL light, fault codes, or rough idling. Figured since I'd already started the process, I might as well change out the spark plugs and remaining coils. Turned out to be a good decision as the #4 coil was cracked pretty bad also.

Cheers,

Rob

[johneevans2]

I have the exact same symptoms and I'm planning on doing just what you did to fix it this weekend.  

 

Question is...I know Bosch plugs is the way to go, but for the coils...are you able to get replacement coil from the local auto store? They have an option that's "manufacture direct" is what they call it but obviously I'm skeptical or worry its a referb.  Is it best just to go with Pelican or has anyone had success from the local auto parts store.

 

Second question...is there any benefit in getting a high performance coil.  I don't track the car and only have aftermarket exhaust currently and may look at going with and IPD plenum and ECU flash down the road.

 

Thanks in advance. 

[JFP in PA]

Actually, I would not be buying from Pelican, when board sponsor Sunset Porsche (Beaverton, OR) sells the correct parts for less money, and ships anywhere quickly.  We get parts from them all the time.

[johneevans2]

19 minutes ago, JFP in PA said:

Actually, I would be buying from Pelican, when board sponsor Sunset Porsche (Beaverton, OR) sells the correct parts for less money, and ships anywhere quickly.  We get parts from them all the time.

Did you mean you "wouldn't" buy from Pelican and buy from Sunset instead??

 

[JFP in PA]

Correct.  I find Pelican to be pricey and quite often misleading on what is a factory part and what is aftermarket.

[johneevans2]

Ok thanks man. So going direct OEM replacement is the best way to go? No upgrades.

[JFP in PA]

What is to upgrade?  The factory coils and plugs are used regularly on the track, and they have been known to last many, many miles.