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P0311 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Cylinder 11 Misfire Detected". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.
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A P0311 code is stored when the powertrain control module (PCM) detects a misfire in cylinder 11 in the engine. When this happens, the Check Engine Light or MIL (Malfunction Indicator Light) will illuminate and will remain illuminated until the problem is resolved.
A misfire in a vehicle’s engine is a simple lack of combustion, which has a number of potential causes. The P0311 code is a means for the PCM to store the fact that Cylinder 11 misfired. With this code, a mechanic can determine the cause and proper repair(s) for the problem so that the cylinder does not continue to misfire in the future.
Because the P0311 code is specific to cylinder 11, all causes and repairs will be in relation to this cylinder. Some of the problems that cylinder 11 and its components may be having include:
A misfiring cylinder will not cause a lot of symptoms, but you may notice that the vehicle vibrates at idle as it misfires. The fuel efficiency can also suffer, as can the car’s performance on the road. The one constant symptom, of course, will be the illuminated Check Engine light or MIL.
After using an OBD-II scanner to detect the P0311 code, a mechanic will know which cylinder is misfiring and can then take steps to diagnose the problem. One of the first diagnostic steps to take is to switch ignition components between cylinder 11 and one of the good cylinders. After switching the components, the mechanic will clear the code and operate the vehicle again to see if the misfire code moves to the new cylinder. If this is the case, then one or more of the components is the problem and should be repaired or replaced.
If switching components leads to the same P0311 code, then the problem could be a compression issue. The most likely causes for this include problems with the exhaust valves or leaks in the head gasket. The mechanic will look for coolant leaks or an overheating engine as potential indicators of a head gasket problem.
Assuming that cylinder 11’s ignition components are the problem and replacing them before testing them with a good cylinder is a common problem. While these components are the most likely cause of the problem, it’s best to do a thorough diagnosis and determine exactly what the problem is before jumping to any (potentially expensive) conclusions.
In some cases, a P0311 code will not be very serious and will only be noticeable because of the illuminated Check Engine Light and a discernible vibration when idling. However, if left alone, a problem in a single cylinder can become a much larger issue. That’s why it’s important to get your vehicle checked out and get the right repairs done as soon as possible.
In most cases, a misfiring cylinder can be fixed by replacing some or all of its ignition components, including:
If the problem is not caused by the ignition components, it can likely be fixed by repairing or replacing a leaking head gasket or exhaust valve.
If the misfiring in cylinder 11 doesn’t seem to be affecting your vehicle’s performance, you may be tempted to let this code go. However, remember that a vehicle cannot pass OBD-II emissions tests if the Check Engine Light or MIL is illuminated.
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