P0303 on VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT — Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected

Q: "What does P0303 mean on a VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT?"

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

Q: "What are the most common causes of P0303 on VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT?"

"Based on 2 NHTSA reports, the most commonly cited components are: Electrical System,Engine,Visibility/Wiper, Electrical System,Visibility,Engine. These percentages are based on the component field in owner complaints."

Q: "Is P0303 serious on my VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT?"

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

Q: "What should I do if my VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT 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 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

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 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT owners have reported this issue to NHTSA across model years 2009-2015. Most reports come from the 2009, 2015 model years. The most commonly reported component is Electrical System,Engine,Visibility/Wiper (50.0% of reports).

Real VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT Owner Reports

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

"There are 3 complaints. i have purchased 2 volkswagen passats in 2009. one is working fine except windshield tank leak, and the other one has the leakage and at the same time an engine problem."

— 2009 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT owner · ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,VISIBILITY/WIPER · Filed 11/14/2011

"Tl* the contact owns a 2015 volkswagen passat. when the contact started the vehicle, the check engine warning indicator illuminated."

— 2015 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT owner · ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,ENGINE · Filed 09/24/2017

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

📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year

1

'09

1

'15

Common Causes on VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,VISIBILITY/WIPER 50%

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,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 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT? ▾

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

What are the most common causes of P0303 on VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT? ▾

Based on 2 NHTSA reports, the most commonly cited components are: Electrical System,Engine,Visibility/Wiper, Electrical System,Visibility,Engine. These percentages are based on the component field in owner complaints.

Is P0303 serious on my VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT? ▾

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

What should I do if my VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT 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.