P0316 OBD-II Trouble Code: Misfire Detected on Startup (First 1000 Revolutions)

P0316 Code definition

The P0316 code is a generic powertrain code related to the ignition system or misfire. When this code appears, a misfire has been detected on startup during the first 1,000 revolutions.

Codes related to the P0316 include:

• P0300: Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected.
• P0301: Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected
• P0302: Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected
• P0303: Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected
• P0304: Cylinder 4 Misfire Detected
• P0305: Cylinder 5 Misfire Detected
• P0306: Cylinder 6 Misfire Detected
• P0307: Cylinder 7 Misfire Detected
• P0308: Cylinder 8 Misfire Detected
• P0309: Cylinder 9 Misfire Detected
• P0310: Cylinder 10 Misfire Detected
• P0311: Cylinder 11 Misfire Detected
• P0312: Cylinder 12 Misfire Detected

What the P0316 code means

Taking the crankshaft position, as well as camshaft position and engine RPMs into consideration, the Engine Control Module (ECM) calculates fuel delivery and ignition timing. If the ECM detects a variation from its preset parameters in the position of the camshaft and crankshaft, an engine misfire is noted and a P0316 code may appear during a OBD-II scan.

What causes the P0316 code?

Several problems may cause a P0316 code including:

• Damaged or defective ignition system components, including:
• Spark plugs and related components
• Ignition coils
• Fuel conditions that are lean due to low fuel pressure
• Poor or low fuel quality
• No fuel
• Engine vacuum leaks
• Damaged or defective exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system
• Damaged or clogged catalytic converter
• Damaged or defective fuel injectors
• Damaged or defective crankshaft position sensor
• Damaged or defective crankshaft position sensor wires or connectors
• Damaged or defective ECM (rare)

What are the symptoms of the P0316 code?

Symptoms of a P0316 code may include:

• An illuminated check engine or warning light
• Reduced vehicle power
• Rough at idle
• Rough or “choppy” feeling at acceleration

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0316 code?

A mechanic may use several methods to diagnose a P0316 trouble code, including:

• Utilize an OBD-II scanner to check for a stored P0316 trouble code
• Visually inspect all wiring and electrical components for obvious signs of damage or wear
• Check the vehicle service record to ensure all maintenance and tune-ups are up-to-date
• Move coils, spark plugs and components from one cylinder to confirm if a specific cylinder is misfiring
• Check fuel conditions for a lean fuel condition, which may be caused by low fuel pressure
• If fuel conditions are lean, check for a major vacuum leak
• Check for damaged or defective fuel injectors
• Check for proper EGR valve function
• Check if the catalytic converter is clogged
• Check for damaged or defective camshaft position sensors, wiring, and connectors

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0316 code

One common mistake made when diagnosing a P0316 trouble code include the unnecessary replacement of ignition system components. These components will most likely be the cause of the code, but a full diagnosis should be made, including checking for any additional or accompanying trouble codes.

How serious is the P0316 code?

Because a vehicle’s safe driving operation is may be impacted due to faults that store a P2090 code, this is considered a potentially serious code. When this code appears, it is recommended that you take your vehicle to a service center or mechanic for diagnosis and repair as soon as possible.

What repairs can fix the P0316 code?

Several repairs can fix a P0316 trouble code and include:

• Ensure the vehicle is fully fueled
• Repair any damaged or defective wires or electrical components
• If maintenance is needed, perform a tune-up and ensure spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor cap, and other related components are working correctly, replacing or repairing damaged or defective items as needed
• Repair or replace any damaged or defective spark plugs and related components
• Repair or replace any damaged or defective fuel injectors
• Repair or replace any damaged or defective EGR valves
• Clear any clogs from the catalytic converter
• Repair or replace any damaged or defective camshaft position sensors and related components
• Reset, repair, or replace a damaged or defective ECM (rare)
• Clear all codes, test-drive the vehicle, and rescan to see if any codes reappear

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0316 code

If any other engine misfire codes other than a P0316 appear, be sure they are diagnosed and repair first.

In addition, there have been technical service bulletins (TSBs) related to the P0316 code, and YourMechanic recommends to always check for any related bulletins prior to any vehicle repairs.

Need help with a P0316 code?

YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.