📟
P0316 is a startup-specific misfire code. Unlike P0300–P0308 which fire at any RPM, P0316 occurs in the first few seconds of cranking. This points to cold-start fuel delivery, fouled plugs, or a crankshaft position sensor issue. Note whether the misfire clears after a few seconds of running - that narrows it significantly. See top-rated scanners on Amazon ↗
🗺️ Where Is the Problem?
Blueprint view - P0316 triggers during the first few revolutions after key-on start
These are statistical causes across ALL vehicles - your exact car may rank differently
For example, on a Honda 4-cyl the downstream O2 sensor causes P0316 64% of the time, but on a GM 5.3L V8 the catalytic converter is the cause 71% of the time. Get a probability ranking built specifically for your year, make, model, and mileage.
🔎 Get the ranking for my exact car - $5.99 →
🎯 Top Causes & Probability
40%
#1 - Most Likely
Cold-Start Fuel Delivery Problem
The fuel system is not building pressure fast enough on cold starts, or the cold-start injector (on older engines) or startup enrichment strategy is failing. A weak fuel pump, a fuel pressure regulator with a bleed-back issue, or a leaking injector causing soak-flooding can all produce a P0316. The misfire typically clears within seconds of running.
🔩 Part
$50–$300
👨🔧 Labor
$50–$200
⚡ DIY Difficulty
Medium
30%
#2 - Check First
Spark Plugs Fouled from Rich Startup
Extended idle time in cold weather or repeated short trips can foul spark plugs with fuel or carbon, especially when the engine runs rich during warm-up. The fouled plugs misfire on the first few cold-start revolutions when voltage demand is highest. Inspection will reveal wet or sooty plugs.
🔩 Part
$20–$80
👨🔧 Labor
$0–$80
⚡ DIY Difficulty
Easy
20%
#3 - Less Common
Faulty Crankshaft Position Sensor
The CKP sensor provides the ECM with crank position data used to time ignition and injection events. A failing CKP sensor may produce erratic signals during the first few cold rotations before settling, causing the ECM to mistime spark and fuel delivery momentarily.
🔩 Part
$30–$100
👨🔧 Labor
$50–$150
⚡ DIY Difficulty
Easy–Med
10%
#4 -
Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves (GDI)
Direct-injection engines (Ford EcoBoost, Audi TFSI, BMW N-series) do not wash the intake valves with fuel like port-injected engines. Heavy carbon deposits on intake valves restrict airflow during cold startup, creating lean misfires in the first few revolutions. Walnut blasting or chemical intake cleaning is the fix.
🔩 Part
$0–$50
👨🔧 Labor
$200–$500
⚡ DIY Difficulty
Hard
🚗 Most Affected Vehicles
🔧 Step-by-Step Diagnosis
- Note When Misfire Clears - Does the rough running clear within 5–10 seconds of startup, or persist? If it clears immediately after the engine warms, the issue is likely cold-start fuel enrichment or fouled plugs. If it persists, suspect a mechanical or sensor issue.
- Inspect Spark Plugs for Fouling - Remove and inspect all spark plugs. Look for wet (fuel-fouled), black/sooty, or oil-coated plugs. Fouled plugs confirm the engine is running too rich during cold starts. Replace plugs and investigate the root cause of the rich condition.
📍 Find a Trusted Shop Near You
Please enter a valid 5-digit ZIP code.
Tips for Choosing a Shop
- Ask if they charge a diagnostic fee and whether it applies toward the repair
- Request a written estimate before approving any work
- Ask specifically about the part brand - OEM vs. aftermarket matters for this code
- Check Google reviews for recent mentions of the specific repair you need