P0308: How to Diagnose & Fix — Cylinder 8 Misfire Detected
28 vehicles · 11 makes · $100-$12,000 repair
How to diagnose and fix P0308: most-reported vehicles
Ranked by owner reports. Each card gives the symptoms, how to confirm the cause, the fix, parts and sources for that vehicle.
Chrysler 300 · 2011–2023
The 5.7L HEMI V8 suffers from MDS lifter design defect where needle bearings are undersized. Lifters can be starved of oil during idle, causing seizure and catastrophic camshaft wear leading to engine failure.
Common Symptoms
- Persistent ticking or tapping noise from engine
- Ticking worsens between 80,000-100,000 miles
- Check engine light with misfire codes
- Rough idle or loss of power
- Metal shavings in oil
How to Fix
Replace all lifters, camshaft, and rocker arms as assembly. Use only OEM or high-quality lifters. Some owners disable MDS system. Use only SAE 5W-20 oil and maintain strict 3,000-5,000 mile oil change intervals.
Sources for this issue (1)
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 · 2014–2019
GM's Active Fuel Management (AFM) system deactivates cylinders to improve fuel economy, but can cause premature lifter wear and failure. Symptoms include rough idle, misfires, and valve train noise. GM released updated lifters.
Common Symptoms
- Engine misfire codes P0300-P0308
- Rough idle
- Ticking or knocking noise
- Reduced power
- Check engine light
How to Fix
Install an AFM disabler device ($100-200) to keep all cylinders active. For failed lifters: replace with updated GM lifters and consider AFM delete kit ($300-500) which includes non-AFM lifters, valley cover, and plug. Complete repair with AFM delete runs $2,000-3,500 at a shop.
Sources for this issue (1)
RAM 1500 · 2009–2019
The 5.7L HEMI engine with Multi-Displacement System (MDS) can experience premature lifter and camshaft wear. The MDS deactivation lifters are prone to failure, causing ticking, misfires, and in severe cases, camshaft lobe damage. This issue has led to class action lawsuits.
Common Symptoms
- Ticking noise at idle
- Engine misfire codes P0300-P0308
- Check engine light
- Loss of power
- Rough idle
- Tick worse when cold
How to Fix
For early detection: Use quality synthetic oil and change every 5,000 miles. Install an MDS delete kit ($200-400) to prevent future failures. If lifters have failed: Full lifter replacement with non-MDS lifters ($2,000-3,500). If camshaft is damaged, expect $3,500-5,500 for full repair. Consider a tuner to disable MDS electronically.
Owner tips & cautions
- TipDIY repairs can save significantly - dealer charges $200-400 but DIY costs are typically 50-70% less
- TipInstall an MDS delete kit ($200-400) to prevent future failures.
- WarningThis is a high-severity issue - ignoring it can lead to costly repairs or safety concerns. Address it promptly.
Sources for this issue (5)
Dodge Durango · 2011–2023
Dodge Charger · 2011–2023
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P0308 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0308 mean?
P0308 stands for "Cylinder 8 Misfire Detected." P0308 means the engine computer detected a misfire on cylinder number 8 — that cylinder is failing to combust properly or at the correct time. The PCM identifies it by monitoring crankshaft speed variations as cylinder 8 fires. Misfires waste fuel, increase emissions, and can overheat and damage the catalytic converter, so a hard misfire may cause a flashing check engine light. Typical symptoms include rough idle, vibration, hesitation, and reduced power.
What are the most common causes of P0308?
The most common causes of P0308 are: Worn, fouled, or incorrectly gapped spark plug on cylinder 8, Failed ignition coil or coil-on-plug for cylinder 8, Faulty, clogged, or leaking fuel injector, Vacuum or intake air leak affecting that cylinder, Low compression (worn rings, burnt/leaking valve, head gasket), Damaged spark plug wire or boot (on applicable engines), Carbon buildup or sticking valve. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0308?
Repair costs for P0308 range from $100 to $12,000, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0308?
Au7o has documented P0308 across 28 vehicle models from 11 manufacturers: Audi, BMW, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Jaguar, Jeep, Lincoln, RAM.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.