P0316
Misfire Detected on Startup
The engine computer detected a misfire right after the engine started. This usually means the engine is running rough when cold, and it may be caused by ignition, fuel, air, or compression problems.
- SEV
- 3/5
- DRIVE
- CAUTION
- DIY
- $20–$200
- SHOP
- $120–$800
Quick answer
AI-CITATION READYWhat it means
Can you drive with it?
Most common causes
- Worn or fouled spark plugs
- Weak ignition coils or coil boots
- Vacuum leak affecting cold idle
Typical repair cost
DIY usually runs $20–$200. Typical shop repair lands around $120–$800, depending on the root cause.
01 / Definition
P0316 is a generic powertrain code that indicates the PCM detected an engine misfire during the first 1,000 crankshaft revolutions after startup. This code often appears with or after a specific cylinder misfire code and can be triggered by conditions present only during cold start, such as weak ignition components, fuel delivery issues, vacuum leaks, or low compression.
02 / Drive status
With caution. You may be able to drive short distances, but a misfire can get worse and may damage the catalytic converter. If the engine is shaking badly, flashing the check engine light, or stalling, do not keep driving.
03 / Symptoms
- Check engine light
- Rough idle after startup
- Engine hesitation when cold
- Shaking or vibration on startup
- Possible flashing check engine light
- Fuel smell from exhaust
- Poor acceleration until engine warms up
- Stalling shortly after starting
04 / Causes
| 1 | Worn or fouled spark plugs | high |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | Weak ignition coils or coil boots | high |
| 3 | Vacuum leak affecting cold idle | medium |
| 4 | Fuel injector problem or poor fuel delivery | medium |
| 5 | Dirty throttle body or idle air control issue | medium |
| 6 | Low battery voltage or slow cranking speed | medium |
| 7 | Carbon buildup or poor combustion during cold start | low |
| 8 | Low engine compression or mechanical engine problem | low |
05 / Diagnostic sequence
- 01Scan for all stored and pending codes, especially cylinder-specific misfire codes and fuel trim codes.
- 02Check battery condition, cranking speed, and starter performance.
- 03Inspect spark plugs, coil packs, and plug boots for wear, oil contamination, or cracking.
- 04Look for vacuum leaks, cracked hoses, loose intake tubing, or intake gasket leaks.
- 05Review fuel trims and live misfire data during cold start.
- 06Check fuel pressure and injector operation if ignition and air intake tests are normal.
- 07Clean the throttle body if idle control or airflow problems are suspected.
- 08Perform a compression or leak-down test if the misfire persists and no basic fault is found.
06 / Repairs
| 1 | Replace worn spark plugs and damaged ignition coils or boots | $50–$400 |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | Repair vacuum leaks, loose intake parts, or damaged hoses | $20–$250 |
| 3 | Clean the throttle body and inspect the intake system for restrictions or leaks | $10–$150 |
| 4 | Service fuel delivery issues such as clogged injectors or low fuel pressure | $80–$600 |
| 5 | Repair internal engine problems such as low compression, valves, or head gasket issues | $500–$2,500+ |
07 / Related codes
08 / FAQ
What does P0316 mean?
It means the engine computer detected a misfire during the first 1,000 revolutions after startup.
Is P0316 the same as a random misfire code?
No. P0300 means random or multiple misfires any time the engine is running. P0316 specifically points to a startup misfire.
Can bad spark plugs cause P0316?
Yes. Worn or fouled spark plugs are one of the most common causes.
Will P0316 clear itself?
It may disappear temporarily if the problem is intermittent, but the underlying fault usually returns until repaired.
Can I drive with P0316?
Short trips may be possible, but it should be diagnosed soon because continued misfiring can damage the catalytic converter.
09 / Source and method
- DATA BASIS
- OBD-II REFERENCE + OBD2.HELP
- METHOD
- STATIC VALIDATION
- SAFETY
- INFORMATIONAL
This page combines OBD-II diagnostic reference data with OBD2.help generated diagnostic guidance for code meaning, likely causes, and repair direction.
Publishing uses deterministic schema and build validation, plus manual spot checks on representative pages before release.
Safety-critical diagnosis and repairs should be confirmed with a qualified mechanic, especially when the vehicle is misfiring, overheating, or losing power.