P0313

Universal

Misfire Detected with Low Fuel

Definition source: General OBD-II reference catalog
Definition verification: Not independently verified for display.
Time: Varies by diagnosis and vehicle | Diagnostic difficulty: Medium
Medium Severity

The engine computer has detected an engine misfire while the fuel level is low. A misfire means one or more cylinders are not contributing power smoothly. Running very low on fuel can interrupt fuel delivery, but this code alone does not prove that a particular part has failed. Exact applicability and diagnostic procedures depend on the vehicle’s model, year, and engine.

Report an error with this code

⚠️ Before You Begin (Safety First)

If the check-engine light is flashing, the engine is shaking badly, or power loss makes driving unsafe, stop driving when safe and arrange assistance. A continuing misfire can damage the catalytic converter. Avoid running the vehicle out of fuel.

Common Symptoms

  • The check-engine light may be on; it may flash if the misfire is severe.
  • The engine may idle roughly or shake because one or more cylinders are not producing power consistently.
  • Hesitation, reduced power, or stumbling during acceleration may occur if fuel delivery is interrupted or combustion is inconsistent.
  • Fuel economy may worsen while the engine misfires.
  • There may be no noticeable symptoms if the misfire is brief or mild.

Common Causes

  • The fuel level may be very low, allowing fuel delivery to become inconsistent under some driving conditions.
  • A fuel-delivery problem may limit the fuel reaching the engine, especially when the tank is low.
  • An ignition or engine condition may cause a misfire that occurs at the same time as a low fuel level.
  • The fuel-level reading may not reflect the actual amount of fuel, so the displayed level should be checked against the real fuel level.
  • A wiring, connection, or sensor issue may affect related readings or systems; the code does not identify a failed part by itself.

Diagnostic Steps

  1. If the tank is nearly empty, add the correct fuel before further driving; this checks whether an insufficient fuel level is contributing to the condition.
  2. After parking safely, check for obvious fuel leaks or damaged wiring and connectors you can see without removing components. Do not work near ignition sources if fuel is present.
  3. Note whether the engine runs poorly and whether the check-engine light is flashing. Stop driving if severe shaking, flashing warning lights, or unsafe power loss occurs.
  4. Use a compatible scan tool to record other stored codes and available misfire or fuel-level information. Related codes can help narrow the diagnosis.
  5. If the code returns with an adequate fuel level or symptoms continue, have a qualified technician test fuel delivery and other possible misfire causes using vehicle-specific procedures.

When to Call a Professional

Confirm the actual fuel level and compare it with the vehicle’s fuel-level reading. Use scan data to assess misfire information and related codes, then check fuel delivery and ignition systems as appropriate for the vehicle. Diagnose the cause before replacing parts; model-specific service information is needed for test procedures and specifications.

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Commonly Asked Questions

Does P0313 prove that the fuel pump has failed?

No. It indicates that a misfire was detected with low fuel. A low tank or another fuel-delivery, ignition, or engine issue could be involved; diagnosis is needed before replacing parts.

Can adding fuel resolve the problem?

If the tank was very low, adding fuel may stop a misfire caused by inconsistent fuel supply. If the code or symptoms return, further diagnosis is needed.

Is it safe to keep driving?

Avoid continued driving with a flashing check-engine light, severe shaking, or unsafe loss of power. A persistent misfire can damage the catalytic converter.

Why check other codes and scan data?

Other codes and available misfire or fuel-level information can help distinguish a low-fuel condition from a separate fuel-delivery, ignition, or engine problem.

Browse Available Code Guides

Previous and next available guides in database record order, across makes. Adjacent entries may share a code number and do not necessarily describe related faults.