P0316

Universal

Misfire Detected On Startup (First 1000 Revolutions)

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 detected a misfire during the first 1000 engine revolutions after startup. It looks for uneven engine rotation that can indicate a cylinder did not burn its air-fuel mixture properly. The problem may be limited to startup or may continue while driving; a misfire can cause rough running, reduced power, or increased exhaust emissions.

Report an error with this code

⚠️ Before You Begin (Safety First)

If the engine runs very roughly, loses power, or the check-engine light flashes, stop driving when it is safe to do so and arrange diagnosis. Continued severe misfiring can overheat and damage the catalytic converter. If the vehicle otherwise runs normally, drive cautiously and have the fault checked soon.

Common Symptoms

Rough or uneven running just after starting, if the misfire is still present.
Longer or difficult starting may occur if the underlying issue affects combustion during startup.
Reduced power or hesitation may occur if misfiring continues beyond startup.
The check-engine light may be on; it may flash if a severe misfire is occurring.
There may be no noticeable symptoms if the misfire was brief or intermittent.

Common Causes

An ignition problem may prevent the mixture from lighting reliably during startup.
A fuel delivery or fuel-mixture problem may leave one or more cylinders unable to combust consistently.
An air leak or other air-management problem may disrupt the mixture, particularly during startup.
A mechanical problem affecting compression or valve operation may prevent consistent combustion.
Intermittent wiring, connector, or sensor issues may contribute to incorrect engine operation or inconsistent detection.

Diagnostic Steps

Note whether the engine starts roughly, how long the behavior lasts, and whether it happens on every start; this helps distinguish a brief startup event from an ongoing misfire.
Check for other stored or pending diagnostic codes with a compatible scan tool and record them before clearing anything; related codes can help guide diagnosis.
With the engine off and cool, visually check accessible ignition and engine wiring connectors for looseness or obvious damage; do not pull on wiring or probe connectors without the correct service information.
Check for obvious intake or vacuum hose disconnections and other visible damage; avoid working near hot or moving engine parts.
If the problem persists, have the vehicle tested using model-, year-, and engine-specific service information rather than replacing parts based on this code alone.

When to Call a Professional

Use a compatible scan tool to review stored and pending codes, freeze-frame information, and available misfire data. Compare startup behavior with warm-engine operation, then inspect relevant ignition, fuel, air, and mechanical systems using procedures for the specific vehicle. A code identifies a detected condition, not a failed part; confirm the cause before replacing components.

Compare component listings

Confirm diagnosis and vehicle fitment before buying. A listing does not prove that a part needs replacement. We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases.

Search Amazon Search eBay

Commonly Asked Questions

Does P0316 identify which part has failed?

No. It reports a detected startup misfire, but does not by itself identify a failed ignition, fuel, air, wiring, or mechanical component.

Can the engine feel normal even when this code is stored?

Yes. The misfire may have been brief or intermittent during startup, so there may be no obvious symptom when the vehicle is checked.

Is a startup-only misfire different from one that continues while driving?

The timing matters for diagnosis. A fault limited to startup may have different contributing conditions from a misfire that continues after the engine is running, so note when symptoms occur and review available scan data.

Is it safe to keep driving?

That depends on how the engine is running. Stop when safe if the check-engine light flashes, the engine runs very roughly, or power drops significantly; severe continued misfiring can damage the catalytic converter.

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.