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Got DIC code: PCM 0300, misfire

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Old Feb 23, 2011 | 05:10 PM
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Default Got DIC code: PCM 0300, misfire

Hello All,
I have a 2000 C5 FRC with a Vararam intake and Borla exhaust. No other engine mods, bolt on or otherwise. Here's my dilemma. Last week Wednesday I was driving to work and got stuck in traffic behind an accident. It was stop and go for about half an hour. After the traffic broke open I tried to accelerate and the car immediately sounded rough and was hesitant until heavy throttle. I checked the codes and got PCM 0300. I later checked the plug wires and they were all seated properly but is still running rough. Also, the exhaust smells a little strong as if it is running rich. The only thing I've done lately is change the AC belt a few days prior to that.
I need a place to start so I can fix this. I really want to drive my baby.
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Old Feb 23, 2011 | 06:22 PM
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There are two things to look for right off the top with the P0300. First and easiest is the ground wire(s) at the rear of the driver's side head. Make sure that bolt holding them on is tight. If it is tight, the next thing to do is to pull the valve covers and look at the valve springs for a possible broken spring.
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Old Feb 23, 2011 | 06:33 PM
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Originally Posted by dgrant3830
There are two things to look for right off the top with the P0300. First and easiest is the ground wire(s) at the rear of the driver's side head. Make sure that bolt holding them on is tight. If it is tight, the next thing to do is to pull the valve covers and look at the valve springs for a possible broken spring.
Certainly possible causes, but there basic things to check first. Condition of the plug wires. Pull plugs to evaluate condition, and see if you can isolate the misfiring cylinder, based on the color i.e. oil/fuel soaked. Look for excessive gap. If the wires and plugs have been in for a while (or have never been changed)....change them. As mentioned, a broken valve spring will precipitate a P0300, but usually a clicking/ticking noise is heard under a valve cover.
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Old Feb 23, 2011 | 10:20 PM
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Thanks guys. This gives me a place to start.
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Old Feb 27, 2011 | 02:07 PM
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Eureka!! It was so simple. A plug wire had come loose from the coil pack side. As soon as I removed the driver side cover I saw it. Pushed it back on and started it up. No more misfire. Only wish I'd taken time to check it earlier but I thought I was going to run into some big issues and didn't want to tackle it until the weekend.
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Old Feb 27, 2011 | 02:37 PM
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Originally Posted by Villain
Eureka!! It was so simple. A plug wire had come loose from the coil pack side. As soon as I removed the driver side cover I saw it. Pushed it back on and started it up. No more misfire. Only wish I'd taken time to check it earlier but I thought I was going to run into some big issues and didn't want to tackle it until the weekend.
At least it was easy....always check the simple stuff first.
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