Learn how to fix P0313 following this simple guide. This code is often triggered only by lack of fuel in your tank and filling up the gas tank can make it go away in many cases. But it is still a misfire code so I will also explain how you can easily deal with misfire issues in your vehicle.
First, understand what is this OBD code telling you.
P0313 quick overview
| Meaning | P0313: Misfire Detected with Low Fuel |
| Is it serious? | This code can be serious if ignored, as continued misfires can damage the engine or catalytic converter. However, if it was triggered by low fuel, simply refilling the tank may resolve it. |
| Possible causes | -Low fuel level in the gas tank -Clogged fuel filter -Fuel line blockage -Faulty fuel injectors -Vacuum leaks -Faulty idle control valve -Ignition system issues (e.g., spark plugs, coils) -Fuel pump failure |
| How to diagnose? | Check Fuel Level: Ensure the gas tank is filled to rule out a simple low fuel issue. Inspect Fuel System: Check for clogged fuel filters, blocked fuel lines, or faulty fuel injectors. Perform Fuel Pressure Test: Verify that the fuel system maintains proper pressure, without drops over time. Look for Vacuum Leaks: Conduct a smoke test to detect any leaks in the intake system. Inspect Ignition System: Check spark plugs, ignition coils, and related wiring for wear or damage. Use OBD2 Scanner: Check for additional codes that could point to related issues like lean conditions or specific cylinder misfires. |
P0313 Meaning
The P0313 code indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected a misfire that is likely related to low fuel levels. This can occur if the fuel supply is insufficient due to a nearly empty gas tank, but it can also be caused by issues such as a clogged fuel filter, fuel line blockage, or faulty fuel injectors.
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P0313 case study: These fixes worked!
When I am making a guide to fix OBD2 codes on this website, I use real data that come from real mechanics that got the car with this issue, found the cause, and report what part finally fixed the problem. It can give you a better idea and confidence to solve issues on your vehicle.
How to fix P0313 on BMW
Car: 2003 BMW X5 3.0i
Problem: P0172, P0175, P1500 (IAC valve), P0313
Diagnosing: Sticking to solving other codes first was the best option here, since the BMW had stored specific BMW code P1500- Idle control valve stuck open.
Fix: Replace the idle control valve.
How to fix P0313 on another BMW
Car: 2002 BMW 530i 3.0L Hesitation
Problem: Hesitation, P0313, P0171
Diagnosing: Even though the description of the code has to do something with low fuel, the problem wasn’t hiding in the fuel system at all. The technician was able to discover a vacuum leak in the intake (also pointed out by lean code).
Fix: Replace vacuum leak
How to fix P0313 on Mercedes
Car: 2013 Mercedes-Benz C250 1.8L
Problem: P0304, P0313
Diagnosing: The issue was intermittent and the car was back in the technician’s shop 3 times before he found a fix that worked. Replacing spark plugs and then ignition coils did not work.
Fix: Flush the fuel system with Liqui Molly cleaner (in the gas tank) solved it.
How to fix P0313 on BMW with no start
Car: 2002 BMW 330i 3.0L
Problem: P0300, P0313, P1345, P1347, P1349
Diagnosing: The battery was fine but the car did not start until the technician received a good piece of advice and tried starting the car with another key.
Fix: Another key worked to get the car working again, some weird security issue.
How to fix P0313 on Another no start BMW
Car: 2002 BMW 330Ci 3.0L No Start, Stall
Problem: No Start, Stall, P0313, P0171, P0174
Diagnosing: The technician found the customer replaced the fuel filter before this issue and he accidentally got one fuel line stuck with a little plastic piece. Always take vehicle service history into consideration when diagnosing faults.
Fix: Repair fuel lines.
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I test OBD-II scanners and make DIY Engine diagnostics guides to help you solve your car problems without having to depend on the mechanic. A lot of them will try to scam you or are just no help at all. About Juraj Lukacko