Cylinder 6 Misfire Detected

What it means

The engine computer has detected repeated misfires in cylinder 6, a common code on six- and eight-cylinder engines. The cause is usually the spark plug, ignition coil or injector, and on some engines this cylinder sits on the rear bank, which is harder to reach.

Related codes: P0300P0305P0304P0356P0206P0276

Symptoms4

• Steady shaking at idle.
• Slight stumble at steady speeds or when accelerating.
• Check engine light on, possibly flashing.
• Smell of unburned fuel from the exhaust.

Possible causes6

• Worn spark plug in cylinder 6.
• Weak ignition coil for cylinder 6 or a cracked boot.
• Clogged or faulty cylinder 6 injector.
• Damaged coil or injector wiring or connector.
• Vacuum leak at the intake manifold gasket near this cylinder.
• Low compression from valves or rings (less common).

How to diagnose5

1. Locate cylinder 6 using the manufacturer's numbering and check whether the upper intake manifold must be removed to reach it.
2. Watch the misfire counter for cylinder 6 and the other cylinders on the same bank.
3. Inspect the plug, then swap the coil with another cylinder on the same bank if possible and see whether the code moves.
4. Check the injector by listening for its click or with an injector balance test.
5. Have a compression test done if the cause is still not found.

How to fix6

1. Replace the spark plug, preferably the whole bank or full set if the intake manifold is already off.
2. Replace the faulty ignition coil.
3. Repair damaged wiring or connectors.
4. Clean or replace the injector.
5. Replace the intake manifold gasket if it is leaking.
6. Clear the codes, then test drive and confirm the code does not return.

The part itself is often cheap, but labor rises sharply if cylinder 6 is on the rear bank and the intake manifold must be removed to reach it.

Prices are rough estimates for common cars at independent workshops and vary with the car and the source of the part.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions