P0302 on a Volvo: 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 Volvo

On a Volvo, P0302 means cylinder 2 is misfiring and not producing power the way it should. Since the code names one specific cylinder, the fault is usually in cylinder 2's spark plug, ignition coil, or fuel injector.

Is P0302 common on Volvos?

P0302 shows up on Volvo's Drive-E four-cylinder engines in the S60, XC60, and XC90, as well as older five-cylinder engines. Ignition coils and spark plugs are the usual culprits, and a failing coil is a common find on higher-mileage Volvos.

Commonly reported on: S60, XC60, XC90, S90.

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	$100–350
Replace the faulty fuel injector	Mechanic	$200–700
Run a compression test to rule out internal engine wear	Mechanic	$100–200