Cylinder misfires can cause issues that range from simple spark plug replacements to major engine damage. In some scenarios, a check engine light (CEL) can be difficult to diagnose. Other times, the cause of the issue can be obvious. If an illuminated check engine light was not enough to worry about, the P0316 error code can make starting your car difficult. In this article, we’ll cover the common symptoms, how to make the repairs, and how much it costs to fix the P0316 code.
Code Number
Code Description
P0316
Misfire Detected On Startup (First 1000 Revolutions)
P0316 code displayed on scanner (Source: HVAC Mechanic/YouTube)
Related P0300 Code: What It Is And How To Fix It
The cause of this error code is serious enough to stop driving your car until it’s fixed.
What Does The P0316 Error Code Mean?
The P0316 code is set by the vehicle’s Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM monitors engine speed via a crankshaft position sensor (CKP). The engine relies on each cylinder achieving a properly timed combustion sequence. When combustion does not occur or is insufficient, the crankshaft speed slows. This loss in revolution speed is detected by the PCM and a misfire code is set. In the case of the P0316 error code, the PCM detects a misfire while the engine was cranking/running for the first 1,000 revolutions. In most cases, if the PCM has not detected consistent misfires, the P030X code(s) will not be set. Not all vehicles are capable of setting the P0316 despite it being a generic fault code.
Ford 4.6L V8 (Source: Kent Diego/YouTube)
What Causes The P0316 Error Code?
The P0316, like the other misfire codes, can be caused by a multitude of issues. The most common reported causes for the P0316 error code are:
Faulty CKP Worn spark plug(s) Faulty ignition coil(s) Dirty fuel injector(s) Worn fuel pump Restricted exhaust Faulty EGR Valve Worn head gasket Low compression Vacuum leak Obstructed intake
What Are the Common Symptoms Of The P0316 Error Code?
The common symptoms of the P0316 error code are:
Difficulty starting Reduced fuel economy Illuminated CEL Colored smoke from exhaust (black, blue, or white) Failed emissions testing
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Can I Still Drive With The P0316 Code?
In most cases, you can continue driving with the P0316 error code. However, if your vehicle is setting consistent misfire trouble codes such as the P0303, you’ll want to fix the issue as soon as possible. An unpredictable loss of power or engine stalling can lead to potential safety hazards.
Exhaust smoke being emitted from the tailpipe (Source: Honest Mechanic Colorado/YouTube)
How Do I Fix The P0316 Code?
There can be several potential causes of the P0316 error code, but before you begin attempting any repairs, you’ll want to confirm the error code is present. You can have your vehicle’s On-Board Diagnostic (OBD-II) system scanned at emissions testing facilities, repair shops, and even parts stores. If you want to improve your diagnostic abilities and be more involved in the repair(s), you can purchase a scanner and perform the system scan yourself.
Be sure to scan the system for both ‘Current’ and ‘Pending’ codes. A current Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is a fault that is presently detected. Pending codes have not yet triggered the issue enough for the PCM to set them as current or active. In some scenarios, the PCM may only set the P0316 code without any additional code. This can make diagnosing more difficult. However, even if additional codes are not current or active, they can be found pending. These pending codes can help lead you to the problem.
Crankshaft Position Sensor
We’ll focus on the most common causes of the P0316 error code, starting with the crankshaft position sensor. Crankshaft position sensors are responsible for relaying the crankshaft’s rotational speed to the PCM. If the crankshaft position sensor fails, it could be caused by cracks, faulty wiring, or corrosion/water intrusion on the connector. Remove the connector and measure the sensor’s resistance. Replace the crank sensor if you suspect it is faulty.
Crank sensor comparison (Source: Diy_Automotive/YouTube)
Always verify the correct testing procedure and specifications with your service manual.
Ignition Faults
The next common issue with the P0316 fault code is a faulty ignition system. Worn spark plugs or a defective/weak coil can cause a misfire, leading to the triggering of the fault code. Performing a tune-up and/or a simple ignition coil replacement has been reported to remedy the P0316 code.
Oil saturated spark plug (Source: Kent Diego/YouTube)
Related What Symptoms Indicate A Bad Spark Plug?
If your spark plugs aren’t doing their job right, there are some obvious and not-so-obvious signs you should look out for.
Fuel
Misfires that occur during startup can easily be the result of poor fuel quality, low fuel pressure, or poor fuel delivery, such as dirty fuel injectors. As the engine warms up, it becomes easier for combustion to occur. Adding an octane booster or topping up your tank with a higher octane fuel can help if you suspect the fuel quality is the cause of the error code. You can have the fuel injectors cleaned by a repair shop, or you can try to add a chemical treatment to your fuel. Using a fuel pressure gauge, you can test if the vehicle has a worn fuel pump. If the fuel pressure is below specification, replace the fuel pump.
How Much Does It Cost To Fix The P0316 Code?
Typically, most vehicles that set the P0316 error code have been repaired with a simple tune-up, ignition coil replacement, or crankshaft sensor repair. However, this is not the case for every vehicle. The cost of fixing the P0316 fault code will depend on the direct cause of the code being set. The repair cost for the P0316 code on the Ford F-150 will range from $150 to $1,600. However, if low compression or a faulty head gasket is to blame, this number can rise significantly higher. A crankshaft position sensor replacement for the F-150 will cost $160 to $240, according to RepairPal. A faulty ignition coil, meanwhile, can cost as much as $270. A fuel pump replacement on a modern F-150 can reach as much as $1,600.
Ford
In the case of the P0316 error code, seek to repair the code as soon as possible even if the vehicle does not seem to be affected. Symptoms can worsen, and a more severe misfire can develop, leading to catalytic converter damage, a lack of power, or increased vehicle emissions. Most people have reported simple repairs that can be done by a DIYer. However, there is always the possibility of needing help from professionals. We recommend confirming the code and checking simple things like vacuum leaks, spark plug replacement intervals, and using a higher quality fuel.
ComponentEstimated Cost Spark plug$5 – $20 Ignition coil$50 – $150 Crankshaft position sensor$35 – $150 Fuel additive$10 – $25 Fuel pump$100 – $1,300