P0306 on Dodge
Cylinder 6 Misfire Detected
P0306 on Dodge vehicles indicates cylinder 6 misfire detected. Au7o has documented this code across 4 Dodge models — most commonly on Challenger, Charger, Durango. This code means the engine computer detected a misfire on cylinder 6 — that cylinder isn't burning its fuel-air mixture properly. The computer senses misfires by watching for tiny variations in crankshaft speed each time a cylinder should fire, and when cylinder 6 repeatedly fails to contribute, this code sets. You may feel a shake or stumble, especially at idle or under load, along with reduced power and possibly a flashing check-engine light, which signals a misfire severe enough to damage the catalytic converter. A misfire comes down to a problem with spark, fuel, or compression in that cylinder. Typical repair costs on Dodge range from $100 to $15,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0306
- •Worn or fouled spark plug on cylinder 6
- •Failed ignition coil for cylinder 6
- •Clogged, leaking, or failed fuel injector
- •Vacuum or intake air leak affecting that cylinder
- •Low compression (worn rings, burnt valve, head gasket)
- •Damaged plug wire or coil connector
- •Carbon buildup or worn valvetrain components
P0306 on Dodge by Model
Dodge Challenger(2 issues)
- HEMI Lifter/MDS Tick2015-2021
HEMI engines with Multi-Displacement System (MDS) can develop a ticking noise from the hydraulic lifters. This is often related to the MDS deactivation system. Some owners disable MDS via tuner to eliminate the issue.
- Pentastar V6 Rocker Arm/Lifter Tick2015-2023
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine can develop a ticking noise from worn rocker arms. Unlike the HEMI MDS tick, this is caused by the roller follower rocker arms wearing out prematurely. The issue typically appears between 50,000-100,000 miles and is more common on 2011-2013 engines but can occur on later models.
Dodge Charger(2 issues)
- HEMI MDS Lifter Tick2011-2023
HEMI engines with Multi-Displacement System (MDS) can develop a ticking noise from the MDS lifters. This tick is most noticeable at idle and during light acceleration. While often not causing immediate damage, it can indicate lifter wear that may eventually require attention.
- Pentastar V6 Rocker Arm/Lifter Tick2011-2023
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 can develop a ticking noise often related to the rocker arms or hydraulic lifters. This is common on engines with higher mileage or irregular oil change intervals. Some early Pentastar engines had rocker arm design issues that were later updated.
Dodge Durango(1 issue)
- HEMI MDS Lifter Tick2011-2023
HEMI engines with Multi-Displacement System (MDS) can develop a ticking noise from the MDS lifters. This is most noticeable at idle and during light acceleration. While often not immediately harmful, it can indicate lifter wear.
Dodge Viper(1 issue)
- Rod Bearing Failure from Oil Starvation (Track Use)2003-2010
Oil starvation during sustained high-speed cornering causes rod bearing failure and catastrophic engine damage. Oil surges away from pickup during hard lateral loading. Gen 3 (2003-2006) more prone than Gen 4 (2008-2010). Primary risk during track use.
Looking for P0306 on a different make?
View P0306 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0306 mean on Dodge?▼
P0306 stands for "Cylinder 6 Misfire Detected." This code means the engine computer detected a misfire on cylinder 6 — that cylinder isn't burning its fuel-air mixture properly. The computer senses misfires by watching for tiny variations in crankshaft speed each time a cylinder should fire, and when cylinder 6 repeatedly fails to contribute, this code sets. You may feel a shake or stumble, especially at idle or under load, along with reduced power and possibly a flashing check-engine light, which signals a misfire severe enough to damage the catalytic converter. A misfire comes down to a problem with spark, fuel, or compression in that cylinder. On Dodge specifically, this code is documented across 4 models.
What causes P0306 on Dodge vehicles?▼
Common causes on Dodge: Worn or fouled spark plug on cylinder 6, Failed ignition coil for cylinder 6, Clogged, leaking, or failed fuel injector, Vacuum or intake air leak affecting that cylinder, Low compression (worn rings, burnt valve, head gasket). Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0306 on a Dodge?▼
Repair costs on Dodge range from $100 to $15,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Dodge models have P0306 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0306 on 4 Dodge models: Challenger, Charger, Durango, Viper.