Is it okay to drive with a code P0302?

PAPET

MEMBER
2014 DODGE CARAVAN
3.6L
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
95,000 MILES

Two weeks ago, while driving to my work the RPM suddenly went up to 2,000. Since then the idle is a little higher and while driving, the RPM is like 1,500 on a 60kph. Before it use to be 1,100 to 1,200 on a 60kph. And last week, the check engine light went on. I scanned and got the code of P0302. I went to my mechanic and he reset the code. He said if ever the check engine light comes on again, I should bring back my vehicle so the spark plugs should be replace to fix the problem. Take note that the spark plugs haven’t change since I got my vehicle in 2013. My question is, is it okay to drive with the P0302? Thank you and hoping for your most appreciated reply.

1 Reply

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
13,475 POSTS

If the light is not on at the moment the system isn't seeing an issue and it should be okay to drive it.
However as you are having issues at this point the plugs should be changed just to eliminate them as a problem so I would change them at this point, even though you are only about halfway to the OE replacement point if 95K is kilometers and not US miles. If it's US miles then you are at the change point. While in there I would also check that the oil filter housing oil cooler isn't leaking (very common problem on that engine) and change the PCV valve as the rubber seal on them gets hard and then you start burning oil.
Be prepared for a higher than normal charge for spark plug change as you have to remove the upper intake manifold to get to the rear three plugs.