What Is the P0316 Code?
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A P0316 code means that your vehicle’s main computer, the Power Control Module (PCM), has sensed a misfire in one or more of the engine’s cylinders right after startup. Essentially, the PCM checks the engine’s first one thousand revolutions, and if it detects misfires correlated to the camshaft or crankshaft during that time, it will set the P0316 code. The PCM may then disable the misfiring cylinder to prevent further damage from being done and will often place an accompanying code with the P0316 to further pinpoint where the issue is coming from.
The P0316 sets when the PCM detects that the position of either the crankshaft or the camshaft is outside of the parameters that they are supposed to be operating within. The PCM uses the information it gets from the crankshaft’s position, the camshaft’s position, and the rotations per minute (RPMs) of the engine to calculate the timing of the ignition and fuel delivery to the motor. A misfire can occur if any of these components are out of range and the PCM will set the P0316 code.
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What Are the Symptoms of a P0316 Code?
One of the first symptoms you will find with the P0316 code is that the PCM will cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate on your vehicle’s dashboard. You will also notice a decrease in the performance of your vehicle’s engine and reduced acceleration and fuel economy because of the misfire. You can also encounter a rough idle when the vehicle is turned on and stopped, harsh acceleration, and engine cut-out. If you notice any of these issues, you should immediately have a qualified technician examine your vehicle.
What Are Some Causes of a P0316 Code?
Because the P0316 code relates to engine misfiring, many causes can lead to the code setting in the first place. One of the most common reasons for the code setting is that you may be encountering issues with the Crankshaft Position Sensor. You may also find that fuel injector issues can cause the code to arise or a bad fuel pump. Ignition issues or problems with the ignition system can also be at fault with this code, or you may find that a clogged catalytic converter is to blame. Some other causes of the P0316 code can also be vacuum leaks or just a faulty PCM unit, although these aren’t as common.
How Serious Is the P0316 Code?
Since the P0316 code leads to engine misfires, it’s considered a relatively severe code. It can affect your vehicle’s ability to start and operate safely on the roads. This is why you should have your vehicle towed to a qualified service center as quickly as possible to avoid further damage to your vehicle or others on the road.
Can I Still Drive with a P0316 Code?
Driving with a P0316 code is not recommended as you may be risking further damage to your vehicle’s engine. The PCM may disable parts of your engine or the cylinder in question once it detects the misfire. This happens to prevent further damage from occurring. This means that you should follow the same protocol and not risk further damage by driving your vehicle when the P0316 code sets. Instead, you should have your vehicle taken to a qualified technician as soon as possible so that you can inspect the issue at hand and save money on further engine repairs.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P0316 Code?
The first step in diagnosing a P0316 code is having a qualified technician assess the live data gathered from the vehicle to determine if the PCM is actually registering a misfire before they swap out any components. They will swap components to validate that there is a mechanical issue in the engine or ignition system. Your catalytic convertor will usually take longer to allow for any restrictions to cause a misfire, but it’s still something they will inspect. Finally, the camshaft and crankshaft sensors are inspected with advanced scanning tools that have built in tests to look for correlation issues and sensor faults.
The technician can also check your vehicle for lean fuel conditions caused by low fuel pressure. Checking for vacuum leaks is the next step in this diagnosing process, followed by checking to see how the fuel injectors are working. They will then check how the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve operates and monitor the catalytic convertor for any clogs. Finally, they will check the camshaft and crankshaft for damage to the sensors, wiring, or connectors.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P0316 Code?
You can take several steps to inspect the P0316 code, the first of which is having a qualified technician repair any damaged or defective wiring or electrical components. You may then proceed to items like the spark plugs or fuel injectors that may be causing the misfire to happen. Technicians will also replace any defective EGR valves and clear any clogging in the catalytic convertor. You may also find that you may need to replace or repair any damaged camshaft position sensors or any of its related components.
Need Additional Help with Your P0316 Code?
You may find that the P0316 code is a serious one if you don’t take the tips and guidelines outlined here when presented with the code. However, if you follow these tips and get your vehicle to a qualified service center, you will prevent further costly damage to your vehicle’s engine and keep it running for longer.
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