What Does It Mean?
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code, meaning it applies to vehicles equipped with OBD-II. Although generic, specific repair steps may vary by make/model.
This P0316 code means that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detected an engine misfire shortly after startup, specifically within the first 1000 revolutions.
This code may also be triggered along with another misfire code such as P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304, P0305, P0306, P0307, P0308, P0309, P0310, P0311, P0312. If you also have another misfire DTC, you should first diagnose and repair that code or codes.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a P0316 DTC may include:
MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) illumination
Rough engine starting or idling
Potential Causes
Causes
potential causes of this misfire code may include:
Damaged or faulty Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP)
Faulty CKP sensor wiring or connector
Poor fuel quality
Fuel starvation
Ignition system malfunction
Fuel system malfunction: injector or fuel pump
Mechanical engine problem
Damaged PCM
Possible Solutions
First, you’ll want to repair any other misfire DTCs if present before diagnosing this code. If you own a Ford vehicle and have a P0316 with any of the other misfire codes, you should check the appropriate TSBs (Technical Service Bulletins), as some TSBs involve PCM reprogramming as part of the fix. Performing this requires specialized equipment. Some Ford vehicles even needed a new cylinder head due to valve issues. Regardless, if you have a Ford with multiple misfire codes including this one, check the TSBs.
If P0316 is the only code, then it’s time to do some further diagnosis of the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors, and their associated connectors and wiring. One tip we’ve found is “Since this code indicates a startup misfire, pay attention to components that may expand or contract when cold (if the code sets when the engine is cold), or hot (if the code sets on restart).”
Realistically, the PCM’s freeze frame data will be helpful in pinpointing the issue. As will a good DVOM (Digital Volt Ohm Meter), so you can perform tests on the wiring and sensors.