P0300 on FORD EXPLORER — Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected

Q: "What does P0300 mean on a FORD EXPLORER?"

"P0300 indicates: Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected. This is a ignition system code. 3 FORD EXPLORER owners have reported this to NHTSA."

Q: "What are the most common causes of P0300 on FORD EXPLORER?"

"Based on 3 NHTSA reports, the most commonly cited components are: Engine, Electrical System,Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System. These percentages are based on the component field in owner complaints."

Q: "Is P0300 serious on my FORD EXPLORER?"

"Of 3 NHTSA reports for this code on FORD EXPLORER, none involved a crash or fire. However, any diagnostic code should be evaluated by a qualified mechanic."

Q: "What should I do if my FORD EXPLORER shows P0300?"

"1) Check for recalls on your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 2) Get a professional diagnosis — a code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. 3) Get 2-3 repair estimates to compare."

What P0300 Means on Your FORD EXPLORER

P0300 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected. This code relates to the ignition system system. The vehicle's computer detected a condition outside normal operating parameters and stored this code.

3 FORD EXPLORER owners have reported this issue to NHTSA across model years 2017-2023. Most reports come from the 2017, 2022 model years. The most commonly reported component is Engine (66.7% of reports).

Real FORD EXPLORER Owner Reports

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

"The contact owns a 2017 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked violently. The check engine warning light was illuminated."

— 2017 FORD EXPLORER owner · ENGINE · Filed 09/01/2024

"My wife was driving the car all of a sudden the check engine light came on, and it started to flash on and off. The car started sputtering. She pulled over turned the car off and called me. I informed her to wait a little bit and restart the car."

— 2022 FORD EXPLORER owner · ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM · Filed 01/11/2025

"The contact owns a 2023 Ford Explorer. While the contact’s son was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle shuddered and shook violently. The driver noticed a strong fuel odor inside the vehicle. The hood was raised, and the fuel odor was much stronger. The vehicle was towed to the residence."

— 2023 FORD EXPLORER owner · ENGINE · Filed 08/09/2025

All reports filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.

📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year

1

'17

1

'22

1

'23

Common Causes on FORD EXPLORER

Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.

ENGINE 66.7%

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM 33.3%

What To Do Next

1
Check for recalls on YOUR VIN
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If your vehicle is covered, repairs are free.
2
Get a proper diagnosis
A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.
3
Compare repair quotes
Get 2–3 quotes. Dealer vs. independent shop prices often differ 30–50% for the same repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does P0300 mean on a FORD EXPLORER? ▾

P0300 indicates: Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected. This is a ignition system code. 3 FORD EXPLORER owners have reported this to NHTSA.

What are the most common causes of P0300 on FORD EXPLORER? ▾

Based on 3 NHTSA reports, the most commonly cited components are: Engine, Electrical System,Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System. These percentages are based on the component field in owner complaints.

Is P0300 serious on my FORD EXPLORER? ▾

Of 3 NHTSA reports for this code on FORD EXPLORER, none involved a crash or fire. However, any diagnostic code should be evaluated by a qualified mechanic.

What should I do if my FORD EXPLORER shows P0300? ▾

1) Check for recalls on your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 2) Get a professional diagnosis — a code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. 3) Get 2-3 repair estimates to compare.