I suggest you run a COMPRESSION TEST on all cylinders. It has been so long, I cannot describe how to interpret the results, but basically, analysis of the test results, both for the suspect cylinder and the others, and the relationship of the differences can tell you a great deal about the condition of the rings and valves. IF the compression in the SUSPECT cylinder is outside of the range of the others, that could be the cause of your miss. A "miss," or "missfire" can result from several causes, LOW COMPRESSION being only one. Low compression can be caused by worn compression rings, improperly seating [leaking] valves, a leaking head gasket, a cracked head or cylinder wall, and probably other causes I've overlooked. Instructions for performing a compression test can be found in basic automotive service manuals, usually available at most local libraries [loan] and/or auto parts supply stores [buy]. There are a few different compression testers available at your local auto parts supply. They all operate in the same manner, some are just designed to be more convienent to use, and thus usually cost more. Before buying any tools or test equipment, get the manual[s] which describe the process, study them until you fully understand the procedure[s], and then, obtain a compression test set. It is possible that some auto parts houses MAY LOAN you a compression tester. If not, then buy the best you can afford.
In the Cylinder head.
2008 malibu 3.6 L code says PO302 misfiring Misfiring in number 2 cylinder. Could be an ignition problem with a bad spark plug or spark plug wire. Could also be a bad fuel injector. Could also be a mechanical problem such as a bad valve. Start with new plugs and wires.
It could be (a) misfiring cylinder(s). Check the condition of your plugs and wires. Also, check if your engine mounts are not worn.
First thing to do is replace the plugs and wires if you have not done so. It you have or if replacing them does not fix the problem then have a compression test run.
It means exactly what is says. Cylinder # 1 is misfiring and not firing all the time. New spark plugs and wires should solve the problem.
CHECK WIRE
It always has the same number of spark plugs as it has cylinders. If it a 6 cylinder it has 6 plugs. If it's an 8 cylinder it has 8 plugs. If it's a 4 cylinder it has 4 plugs. Toyota doesn't make a 4 cylinder 4Runner.
lacking of oil to the cylinder possibly, distributers can also be a factor...... also dont forget to check the simple things such as spark plugs or any loose wire connections
Misfires are commonly a result of bad spark plugs or the wires connecting to your spark plugs, There is a spark plug for each cylinder of your vehicle which affects your cars ability to start and shift up in gears, depending on which plugs aren't working.
Fuel injector?, wire? manifold leak?
firewall 4 - 8 3 - 7 2 - 6 1 - 5 front of Lincoln LS ( V8 )
When you replaced the plugs, did you check the compression? Did any of the plugs look different than the others? Low compression in one cylinder can cause misfiring. But then, so can a faulty distributor cap.