2003 Kia Spectra Rough start, CEL with P0302 code

2003 KIA SPECTRA

103,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC

KINGROCK

MEMBER
3 POSTS

2003 Kia Spectra has a rough start about 50% of the time. Throws a CEL with P0302. Sometimes drives a little rough too.

Replaced all plugs. Replaced coil for Cyl #2. Dealer said fuel pressure was below spec. Replaced fuel pump and fuel filter. Still throwing P0302.

What should I try next? Fuel injector?
Is there some testing I can do to narrow the problem instead of buying expensive parts?

Thanks!

Aug 11, 2009 at 4:28 PM

DOCFIXIT

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
18,828 POSTS

Hi
Seems like logical step injector. Try some fuel system cleaner Techron works great. Get at any parts store in black bottle made by Chevron. if runnig improves then you"ll know inj. is at fault.
Hope this helps
Thanks for donate

Aug 12, 2009 at 9:18 AM

KINGROCK

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Just because I hate reading internet forums and never finding out the result --

The problem turned out to be a blown head gasket. Did a compression test and cyl #2 was low. Looked harder and saw coolant in the cyl. Went through the ardous task of replacing the head gasket, machining the head, valve job, new timing belt, and waterpump. Car drives great now... no CEL. No overheating, no problems!

Sep 23, 2009 at 1:10 PM

DOCFIXIT

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
18,828 POSTS

Thanks for posting back is good to know how it turns out.

Sep 24, 2009 at 11:57 AM

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