The P0302 diagnostic code on your 2021 Jeep Gladiator indicates cylinder 2 is experiencing misfires detected by the engine control module. The Gladiator pickup is powered primarily by the 3.6L Pentastar V6, with the 3.0L EcoDiesel available as an option. Each powertrain has specific diagnostic considerations for misfire resolution.
Gladiator Engine Options
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 produces 285 horsepower with available eTorque mild hybrid assistance. The 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 produces 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. Cylinder 2 is on the rear bank of both V6 configurations. Gasoline and diesel engines have fundamentally different misfire causes.
3.6L V6 Misfire Causes
The Pentastar's port injection avoids direct-injection carbon concerns. Common causes include ignition coil failure, spark plug wear, fuel injector clogging, and vacuum leaks. The proven engine has well-documented diagnostic procedures. eTorque-equipped models add mild hybrid complexity.
3.0L EcoDiesel Considerations
The diesel V6 has no spark plugs—P0302 indicates fuel injection or compression issues. Injector failure, low fuel pressure, glow plug problems, or compression loss are typical diesel misfire causes. Specialized diesel diagnostic equipment may be required.
Symptom Recognition
The mid-size truck displays rough idle, vibration, and hesitation with cylinder 2 misfires. Towing and payload capability suffer with reduced power. Check engine light accompanies detected misfires.
Diagnostic and Repair Approach
Identify your engine type. Scan for all codes including diesel-specific codes if equipped. Gasoline engines require ignition inspection; diesels require fuel system evaluation. Compression testing is valuable for both.