P0303 on JEEP CHEROKEE — Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected

Q: "What does P0303 mean on a JEEP CHEROKEE?"

"P0303 indicates: Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected. This is a ignition system code. 2 JEEP CHEROKEE owners have reported this to NHTSA."

Q: "What are the most common causes of P0303 on JEEP CHEROKEE?"

"Based on 2 NHTSA reports, the most commonly cited components are: Engine, Power Train,Engine. These percentages are based on the component field in owner complaints."

Q: "Is P0303 serious on my JEEP CHEROKEE?"

"Of 2 NHTSA reports for this code on JEEP CHEROKEE, none involved a crash or fire. However, any diagnostic code should be evaluated by a qualified mechanic."

Q: "What should I do if my JEEP CHEROKEE shows P0303?"

"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 P0303 Means on Your JEEP CHEROKEE

P0303 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Cylinder 3 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.

2 JEEP CHEROKEE owners have reported this issue to NHTSA across model years 2016-2017. Most reports come from the 2016, 2017 model years. The most commonly reported component is Engine (50.0% of reports).

Real JEEP CHEROKEE Owner Reports

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

"Tl* the contact owns a 2016 jeep cherokee. the contact stated that the vehicle experienced rough idling. the check engine warning light was illuminated. the vehicle was taken to quirk chrysler dodge jeep ram (830 plain st, marshfield, ma 02050) to be diagnosed."

— 2016 JEEP CHEROKEE owner · ENGINE · Filed 07/15/2020

"The contact owns a 2017 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at 75 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The check engine and an unknown warning light illuminated."

— 2017 JEEP CHEROKEE owner · POWER TRAIN,ENGINE · Filed 08/10/2025

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

📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year

1

'16

1

'17

Common Causes on JEEP CHEROKEE

Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.

ENGINE 50%

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE 50%

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 P0303 mean on a JEEP CHEROKEE? ▾

P0303 indicates: Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected. This is a ignition system code. 2 JEEP CHEROKEE owners have reported this to NHTSA.

What are the most common causes of P0303 on JEEP CHEROKEE? ▾

Based on 2 NHTSA reports, the most commonly cited components are: Engine, Power Train,Engine. These percentages are based on the component field in owner complaints.

Is P0303 serious on my JEEP CHEROKEE? ▾

Of 2 NHTSA reports for this code on JEEP CHEROKEE, none involved a crash or fire. However, any diagnostic code should be evaluated by a qualified mechanic.

What should I do if my JEEP CHEROKEE shows P0303? ▾

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.