P0302 on a Jeep: Causes, Fixes & Repair Cost

🟠 Moderate severity · drivable

If the check engine light is flashing, stop driving, since a severe misfire can damage the catalytic converter.

What P0302 means on a Jeep

On a Jeep, P0302 means cylinder 2 is misfiring — it is not producing power the way it should. Because the code names one specific cylinder, the problem is usually isolated to cylinder 2's spark plug, ignition coil, or fuel injector.

Is P0302 common on Jeeps?

P0302 is common on Jeep's 3.6L Pentastar V6, found in the Grand Cherokee and Wrangler, and the 2.4L Tigershark four-cylinder in the Cherokee and Compass. Worn spark plugs and coil-on-plug ignition coils are the usual causes on these engines.

Commonly reported on: Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, Cherokee.

Symptoms

Check engine light on (flashing if severe)
Rough idle or shaking from the engine
Loss of power or hesitation when accelerating
Poor fuel economy

Common causes

most common: Worn or fouled spark plug in cylinder 2
common: Failing ignition coil on cylinder 2
common: Clogged fuel injector on cylinder 2
less common: Vacuum leak from a cracked hose or gasket
less common: Low compression from engine wear

How to fix it

Fix	DIY?	Typical cost
Replace the spark plug in cylinder 2, or all of them	Yes	$40–150
Swap the ignition coil to another cylinder to confirm, then replace it	Yes	$80–300
Replace the faulty fuel injector	Mechanic	$150–600
Run a compression test to rule out internal engine wear	Mechanic	$100–200

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to drive my Jeep with a P0302 code?

Only if the check engine light is steady and the car runs okay. A flashing light means a severe misfire, so stop and get it towed.

What usually causes P0302 on a Jeep?

A bad spark plug or ignition coil on cylinder 2 is the most common cause, especially on the 3.6L Pentastar and 2.4L Tigershark engines. Injectors and vacuum leaks come next.

How much does it cost to fix P0302 on a Jeep?

Spark plugs and coils run about $40–$300. Fuel injector replacement costs more, and a compression test adds a little more to the diagnosis.