Error P0316 – how to fix?

Code definition P0316

Code P0316 is a general driveline code related to the ignition system or misfire. The appearance of this code means that a misfire was detected during the first 1000 revolutions.

Codes related to P0316 include:

• P0300: Random misfire / multiple misfire detected.
• P0301: Cylinder 1 mismatch detected.
• P0302: Cylinder 2 misfire detected
• P0303: Ignition failure detected on cylinder 3
• P0304: Cylinder 4 misfire detected
• P0305: Cylinder 5 misfire detected
• P0306: Cylinder 6 misfiring detected
• P0307: Cylinder 7 misfiring detected
• P0308: Cylinder 8 misfiring detected
• P0309: Cylinder 9 misfiring detected
• P0310: Cylinder 10 misfire detected
• P0311: Cylinder 11 misfire detected
• P0312: Cylinder 12 mismatch detected

What does the code P0316 mean

The engine control module (ECM) calculates the fuel delivery and ignition timing using the crankshaft position, camshaft position, and engine RPM. If the ECM detects a deviation from the commanded parameters in the camshaft and crankshaft positions, the engine fires and the code P0316 may appear during the OBD-II scan.

What causes the code P0316?

Several problems can be caused by the P0316 code, including:

• Damaged or defective components of the ignition system, including:
• Spark plugs and related items
• Ignition coils
• Low fuel level due to low fuel pressure
• Poor or poor fuel quality
• No fuel
• Vacuum leaks in the engine
• Damaged or defective exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system
• Damaged or clogged catalytic converter
• Damaged or faulty fuel injectors
• Damaged or faulty crankshaft position sensor
• Damaged or defective crankshaft position sensor wiring or connectors
• Damaged or defective ECM (rare)

What are the symptoms of the P0316 code?

Symptoms of the P0316 code may include:

• The check engine light is on or the warning light is on
• Reduced vehicle power
• Uneven idling
• Sensation of rough or “knocking” when accelerating.

How can a mechanic diagnose the P0316 code?

A mechanic can use several methods to diagnose fault code P0316, including:

• Using the OBD-II scanner to search for the stored trouble code P0316.
• Visually inspect all electrical cables and components for visible signs of damage or wear.
• Check your vehicle’s service records to make sure all inspections and adjustments are up to date
• Move coils, spark plugs, and cylinder components to confirm whether a specific cylinder is damaged.
• Check the fuel condition to see if there is a lean fuel condition which may be caused by low fuel pressure.
• If the fuel is lean, check for a severe vacuum leak.
• Check for damaged or faulty fuel injectors.
• Check that the EGR valve is working properly
• Check if the catalytic converter is clogged
• Inspect for damaged or incorrect camshaft position sensors, wiring, and connectors

The most common errors when diagnosing the P0316 code

A common mistake made when diagnosing fault code P0316 is unnecessary replacement of the ignition system components. These items are most likely the cause of the code, but a complete diagnosis should be performed, including checking for additional or accompanying fault codes.

How serious is the P0316 code?

As faults in which the P2090 code is written may affect the safe driving of the car, it is a potentially serious code. If this code appears, it is recommended that the vehicle be returned to a service center or a mechanic for diagnosis and repair as soon as possible.

What repairs can fix the P0316 code?

Several repairs can fix the P0316 fault code and include:

1. Make sure the vehicle is full of fuel
2. Repair any damaged or defective electrical wiring or components.
3. If maintenance is required, perform an inspection and make sure the spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor cap, and other related components are functioning properly, replacing or repairing damaged or defective components as necessary.
4. Repair or replace damaged or defective spark plugs and related components.
5. Repair or replace damaged or defective fuel injectors
6. Repair or replace damaged or defective EGR valves
7. Clear any catalyst blockages
8. Repair or replacement of damaged or defective camshaft position sensors and related components
9. Reset, repair, or replace a damaged or defective ECM (rarely)
10. Delete all codes, drive the vehicle, and scan again to see if the codes reappeared.

Additional considerations for code P0316

• If any engine misfire code other than P0316 appears, make sure it is diagnosed and repaired first.
• In addition, there are Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) associated with the P0316 code, and YourMechanic recommends always checking any bulletins related to any vehicle repair.