P0310
Cylinder 10 Misfire Detected
When a vehicle powertrain module registers the fault code P0310, it points directly to an internal system malfunction identified as "Cylinder 10 Misfire Detected". Operating your engine under this condition may degrade long-term fuel maps.
Driver's Summary
P0310 is triggered when the PCM detects an abnormal condition associated with cylinder 10 misfire detected. In practice, this fault causes rough idle, severe hesitation under load, poor fuel economy. Stop driving as soon as it is safe to do so. This fault can lead to expensive secondary damage if left unaddressed.
Symptoms
Rough idle, severe hesitation under load, poor fuel economy
Common Causes
- Failed ignition coil pack
- Fouled spark plug
- Intake manifold vacuum leak
- Fuel injector failure
How to Fix
- 1 Replace ignition coil
- 2 Replace spark plug
- 3 Check for intake leaks
- 4 Test fuel injector
Technical Explanation
The ECM detects code P0310 by continuously monitoring the relevant sensor circuit against calibrated threshold values stored in its non-volatile memory. The PCM monitors crankshaft rotational velocity via the CKP sensor at a resolution of individual tooth gaps on the reluctor ring. A combustion event in each cylinder produces a measurable acceleration spike; its absence or weakness is flagged as a misfire event within a 200-revolution or 1000-revolution test window. The fault remains stored in memory even after the MIL is cleared; it becomes a confirmed DTC after failing two consecutive drive cycles, and the PCM logs a freeze frame record of the engine's exact operating state at the moment of detection.
Is It Safe to Drive?
This fault carries real mechanical risk. The root causes — including failed ignition coil pack — can trigger a chain reaction of component failures if the vehicle continues to be driven. Have it towed or drive directly to a shop without delay.
Mechanic's Pro Tip
For P0310, always perform a smoke test before replacing any parts — unmetered air from a cracked intake boot, split hose, or failed gasket is the root cause in the majority of lean fault cases and costs almost nothing to fix. After any repair, clear the code and watch short-term fuel trim (STFT) live on a scan tool; it should recover to within ±5% at idle within 2–3 minutes if the vacuum leak is truly resolved.
Coil replacement: 150 - 300; Injector: 300 - 600