98 Dodge Neon P0304 Fault: No Spark in Cylinder 4 Despite New Coil, Wires, Plugs, and Injector
Initially, I suspected a faulty coil and replaced it along with the spark plugs, ignition wires, and fuel injectors. However, the issue persisted. I later noticed that the gas gauge dropped significantly every time I pressed the accelerator, and I observed fuel dripping from the spark plug in cylinder 4—indicating a possible stuck-open fuel injector. I therefore replaced the #4 injector with a new one from the dealership, but the problem remained. Further testing revealed that when I lift the plug wire off each cylinder at idle, there is a noticeable difference between cylinders 1–3, but lifting the plug wire off cylinder 4 shows no change in engine behavior. This suggests that cylinder 4 is not receiving any spark. The vehicle was running normally until one day on the highway when it began misfiring. It has been misfiring ever since and only displays the P030 or code. I’ve already replaced the coil, plugs, wires, and injector—yet the issue persists. What could be causing this? Any insights from others who have encountered a similar problem with their 1998 Dodge Neon?
Perform a compression test to verify cylinder integrity, and ensure that the #4 fuel injector is not being commanded on continuously by the PCM.