How to Easily Fix a P0313 Code: Step-by-Step Guide

AvatarByCarl Frisch

P0313 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicating a misfire in the engine. This code is typically caused by an ignition system malfunction, fuel injection system fault, or a problem with the PCM (Powertrain Control Module).

To fix a P0313 code, first check for loose or corroded connections in the ignition system and fuel injection system. If no problems are found, the next step is to check for any stored codes related to the misfire. If any codes are found, use a scan tool to clear them and see if they come back.

If the codes do not return, perform a compression test on each cylinder of the engine to identify any possible mechanical faults. If there are no issues with compression, then inspect all of the spark plugs and ignition coils for wear or damage. Replace or repair any damaged components as necessary.

Finally, if all else fails, replace the PCM as it may be faulty and causing the misfire. Doing so will likely resolve the P0313 code and get your vehicle running properly again.

Understanding the Code



When your vehicle’s computer detects a misfire, it will trigger a P0313 code and turn on the Check Engine Light. This code is specific to the cylinders that are misfiring, so it is important to properly diagnose and repair the issue. The first step in resolving the issue is to understand the code and identify the vehicle’s symptoms.

Gathering Diagnostic Equipment



In order to properly diagnose and repair a P0313 code, you will need a few pieces of diagnostic equipment. An OBD-II scanner is necessary for scanning and retrieving diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from your vehicle’s computer, while a digital multimeter can be used for measuring electrical components in your vehicle.

Checking for Technical Service Bulletins



Before you begin any repairs, it is important to check for any Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to this issue. TSBs are documents released by car manufacturers that provide information about known issues or common failure points in certain vehicles. They may provide additional insight into potential causes of the issue or suggest specific parts or repairs that should be done.

Performing a Visual Inspection of the Vehicle



Once you have gathered all of your diagnostic equipment and checked for any TSBs related to this issue, it is time to perform a visual inspection of the vehicle. Start by checking all of your spark plugs and wires for signs of wear or damage. If they appear fine, move on to inspecting the ignition coil and coil boot for signs of corrosion or other damage. If no issues are found here, then you should move on to more advanced diagnostics such as running tests with an OBD-II scanner or performing compression tests with a compression gauge.

Diagnosis of P0313 Code


When a P0313 code is stored in the vehicle’s diagnostic system, it is important to diagnose and repair the issue as soon as possible. First, the technician must identify the source of the issue and then proceed with repairs. The technician should start by inspecting the engine’s ignition coils and boot, as these are two common causes of a P0313 code. If any signs of wear or damage are found, then they should be replaced.

Next, it is important to test for voltage at coil connector terminals 1, 3 and 4 both with the engine off and on. This can be done with a multimeter or other type of voltage tester. If any readings are low or not present at all, then this indicates an electrical problem that needs to be addressed.

Finally, if no visible faults are found after testing for voltage then it may be necessary to clean misfire monitor data with an OBD scanner tool. This will help to ensure that any false codes generated by the system are cleared out before any further diagnosis is done. After this is done, a post repair inspection and re-test should be performed to ensure that the issue has been fixed correctly.

Replace Faulty Parts as Needed


If any faulty parts have been identified during diagnosis of the P0313 code, then they must be replaced before proceeding with repairs. This may involve replacing worn out spark plugs or ignition coils if they are found to be faulty. In some cases, additional components such as ignition cables or wiring harnesses may also need to be replaced if they have become worn out over time or damaged due to corrosion or other factors. Additionally, it may also be necessary to replace any faulty gaskets that were found during inspection in order to prevent further issues from arising in the future.

Test for Voltage at Coil Connector Terminal 1, 3 and 4



When testing for voltage at coil connector terminals 1, 3 and 4 both with the engine off and on, it is important that all readings are within an acceptable range for your particular vehicle model. Using a multimeter or other type of voltage tester can help you determine if there is an electrical problem present which needs attention before further diagnosis can take place. It is also important to note that if any readings are low or not present at all then this could indicate an electrical issue such as a shorted wire which needs to be repaired before proceeding with other repairs related to fixing a P0313 code.

Clean Misfire Monitor Data with OBD Scanner Tool



Once all necessary repairs have been made it may still be necessary to clean misfire monitor data using an OBD scanner tool in order ensure that any false codes generated by the system have been cleared out before continuing with repairs related to fixing a P0313 code. This process involves connecting an OBD scanner tool directly into your vehicle’s diagnostic port in order to access its onboard diagnostics system (OBD). Once connected you can then use specific commands within the tool’s user interface in order clear out any stored misfire monitor data which could potentially cause further issues down the line if left unchecked.

Perform Post Repair Inspection and Re-Test



Finally after completing all necessary repairs related fixing a P0313 code it is important that you perform a post repair inspection in order confirm that all components were installed correctly and functioning properly before proceeding with any further tests or inspections related your vehicle’s performance overall health status going forward. During this process you should once again test for voltage at coil connector terminals 1, 3 and 4 both when engine off and on using either a multimeter or other type of voltage tester followed by running another OBD scan just make sure none new codes were generated from recent repairs made prior re-testing your vehicle’s performance status overall health status going forward .

FAQ & Answers



Q: What is a P0313 code?
A: A P0313 code is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code indicating a misfire in cylinder number 3 of your vehicle’s engine.

Q: What are the symptoms of a P0313 code?
A: A P0313 code can cause the vehicle to have poor fuel economy, misfire, and lack of power. It can also cause other engine-related issues such as stalling, rough idling, and difficulty starting.

Q: What are the common causes for a P0313 code?
A: Common causes for a P0313 code include faulty ignition coils or coil boots, spark plug wires or spark plugs that have gone bad, or vacuum leaks.

Q: How do I diagnose a P0313 code?
A: To diagnose the issue, you should first check for any technical service bulletins (TSBs) related to your vehicle’s make and model. You will also need an OBD-II scanner and digital multimeter to help identify the source of the problem. Once identified, you will need to replace any faulty parts and clean misfire monitor data with an OBD scanner tool. Finally, perform a post-repair inspection and re-test before returning the car to its owner.

Q: How can I fix a P0313 code?
A: To fix a P0313 code, you should first perform a visual inspection of the vehicle by checking for any faulty spark plugs or wires as well as inspecting ignition coils and coil boots. If any parts need to be replaced, do so and then test for voltage at coil connector terminals 1, 3 and 4 using both an engine off test and an engine on test. Finally, clean misfire monitor data with an OBD scanner tool before performing post repair inspection and re-testing.

In conclusion, the best way to fix a P0313 code is to first diagnose the cause of the code. This can be done by using an OBD-II scanner to check for any related trouble codes and then use a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM) to test the relevant components. If the issue is found to be related to faulty spark plugs, they should be replaced and if it is related to a weak fuel injector, it should be replaced or cleaned. Finally, after all of these repairs have been made, the code should be cleared and the engine should be tested for proper operation.

Author Profile

Carl Frisch
Carl Frisch
With more than 30 years in the bicycle industry, I have a strong background in bicycle retailing, sales, marketing and customer service. I have a passion for cycling and a dedication to excellence. As a manager, I worked diligently to increase my capabilities and responsibilities, managing up to eleven mechanics (at Palo Alto Bicycles) and later as a working partner in my own store.

As the shop owner of Spoke n’ Word Cycles in Socorro, NM, the success of the mission was my responsibility, which I pursued passionately since we opened in 2003 through the spring of 2011. I am adept at managing owned and loan inventory, preparing weekly & annual inventory statements, and managing staff. The role as managing partner also allowed me tremendous freedom. I used this personal freedom to become more deeply involved in my own advancement as a mechanic, to spearhead local trail building, and advocating for cycling both locally and regionally.

As a mechanic, I have several years doing neutral support, experience as a team mechanic, and experience supporting local rides, races, club events. I consistently strive to ensure that bicycles function flawlessly by foreseeing issues and working with the riders, soigners, coaches and other mechanics. Even with decades of experience as a shop mechanic and team mechanic, and continue to pursue greater involvement in this sport as a US Pro Mechanic, and UCI Pro Mechanic.

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