What Is the P0313 Code?
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The P0313 code indicates that two simultaneous problems are happening in your vehicle. The first problem is that there is at least one misfire. The second problem is that the misfire happened due to a lean fuel condition. When the P0313 misfire code activates, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or Engine Control Module (ECM) has identified both issues. It doesn’t indicate exactly why this problem has occurred, only that it has. This code will usually be accompanied by other OBD-II codes that will give you more insight into the underlying problem.
More About Error Code P0313
The “low fuel” referred to in this diagnostic trouble code doesn’t necessarily mean a low fuel condition in the vehicle, although that problem frequently occurs simultaneously. Instead, “low fuel” refers to a lean fuel condition, which occurs when too much air is in the air-fuel mixture. These conditions can cause the vehicle not to work appropriately, as there isn’t enough fuel to properly power the vehicle.
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What Are the Symptoms of a P0313 Code?
Depending on the core cause of the P0313 code, you can see multiple related symptoms. Your engine may run roughly, including a general lack of power and hesitation during acceleration. Depending on your vehicle’s fuel issues and how much loss of power you’re seeing, you may also experience a hard start or a complete no-start condition. Regardless of the severity of DTC P0313, however, you should always see the check engine light turn on.
What Are Some Causes of a P0313 Code?
The most common cause for this misfire code is a low fuel level within the vehicle. If the fuel is low enough to expose the fuel pump, it may not be able to create enough fuel pressure to pump the fuel into the engine appropriately. If you have enough fuel in your fuel tank, problems might include a failing fuel pump, clogged or faulty fuel filter, fuel pressure regulator failure, problems with clogged or failed fuel injectors, a short or open circuit in the fuel pump harness, or issues with electrical connectors and wiring. While less common, other problems in the fuel ignition system can also result in this problem, such as issues with spark plugs, ignition wires, the mass air flow sensor, and more.
How Serious Is the P0313 Code?
The P0313 code is extremely serious. Misfires can result in severe engine errors, especially if left for too long. Any problems resulting in code P0313 will create problems over time. Plus, fuel pressure and fuel injector concerns in a vehicle can lead to an inability to drive at all, which can end up stranding you in the middle of nowhere. Treat the P0313 code as though it is extremely serious at all times.
Can I Still Drive with a P0313 Code?
You should not drive the vehicle if the P0313 code is active. The P0313 code indicates that there’s something seriously wrong with how the fuel injectors transport fuel to the engine, which is the core functionality method that the engine relies on. Whether you can fix the problem just by adding more fuel to the tank or if there’s a deeper problem, the P0313 code is not one you can just ignore. The most you should drive is to get to a nearby gas station to see if it’s a fuel pump issue or if you didn’t have enough gas.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P0313 Code?
It depends on the problem. For most people, the P0313 code is due to user habits. It’s most common to see this problem because of a lack of fuel. Adding more fuel to the gas tank may fix the problem with no further issues. However, in some cases, the problem is deeper than this, requiring a look at the electrical wiring, the rest of the fuel pump system, and the vacuum hoses. You’ll also need to look at technical service bulletins and any other generic powertrain codes on your OBD-II scanner. In these cases, you’ll need special tools, which most DIYers don’t have access to. That’s when an experienced mechanic can be very helpful in handling the diagnostic process and troubleshooting steps.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P0313 Code?
If you’re experiencing a legitimate fuel delivery problem and not just a lack of fuel, the inspection process can be difficult, as this is one of the more ambiguous codes out there. There are so many possibilities for the P0313 error code. And while not all of them are as common as others, they may need various special tools and knowledge of how your vehicle’s make and model works. You might need the service manual, knowledge of engine misfires, and the ability to handle repair procedures for many problems. The inspection process for the P0313 code can be one of the more difficult ones out there, so let an expert take care of it if you’re not especially well-versed in managing engine concerns.
Need Additional Help with Your P0313 Code?
Many people need help with the P0313 code. So if you’ve added fuel to your gas tank and it hasn’t cleared the problem, you should seek a certified mechanic to help you.
Start by finding an auto repair shop in your area. Because of how severe this fuel code can be, it’s often very helpful to find a local automobile repair shop to help you through it.
This code also almost always comes with other fault codes if a problem doesn’t have to do with the fuel level in the gas tank. The OBD-II database at KBB.com will help you understand what these other codes on your code scanner mean and how to fix them.
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