P0313
Misfire Detected with Low Fuel
If your code reader dashboard displays the generic DTC error code P0313, your vehicle is currently experiencing an active failure related to "Misfire Detected with Low Fuel". Proper system troubleshooting is required to safely clear this warning.
Driver's Summary
Code P0313 means your vehicle detected a problem with the misfire detected with low fuel system. On the road, this usually shows up as engine sputtering, hesitation, fuel gauge near empty, check engine light. You can continue normal driving, but schedule an inspection at your next service appointment to clear this code properly.
Symptoms
Engine sputtering, hesitation, fuel gauge near empty, check engine light
Common Causes
- Extremely low fuel level causing fuel starvation
- Clogged fuel filter
- Failing fuel pump picking up air
- Inaccurate fuel gauge
How to Fix
- 1 Fill fuel tank with high-quality gas
- 2 Clear diagnostic codes and test drive
- 3 Replace fuel filter
- 4 Test fuel pump pressure and volume
Technical Explanation
The PCM triggers P0313 after its internal monitoring routine detects that a specific circuit or sensor has exceeded its acceptable operating range. 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. Once confirmed, the code is stored as a permanent DTC and the MIL is activated. The freeze frame snapshot — recording RPM, load, coolant temperature, and fuel trim at fault detection — is also saved and is critical for accurate diagnosis.
Is It Safe to Drive?
This code won't strand you, but it shouldn't be ignored indefinitely. The extremely low fuel level causing fuel starvation issue identified by P0313 can mask other developing problems and will cause an automatic emissions test failure in most states.
Mechanic's Pro Tip
When diagnosing P0313, always test fuel volume delivery in addition to static pressure — a pump that holds pressure at idle but delivers insufficient volume under load will cause the fault only during acceleration or high demand, making it difficult to replicate in the driveway. Use a fuel pressure gauge with a volume outlet port: a healthy pump should deliver at least 1 liter per minute. Replace the fuel filter first; it's the cheapest test and solves the fault in a significant percentage of cases.
Fuel fill-up: 50; Fuel pump replacement: 300 - 400