P0313Generic code

P0313 Code: Misfire Detected with Low Fuel

The P0313 code means misfires were logged while the fuel tank was almost empty. The fuel pump may have sucked air and left the engine without fuel for a moment. In most cases the fix is simply to refuel and clear the code.

Severity
Low
Can I keep driving?
Yes, no immediate risk
Estimated cost
$0 to $400
Difficulty
Easy
System
Ignition and Misfires
Applies to
All OBD2 vehicles

Updated Reviewed by Renzo Chacca

On this page

What the P0313 code means

When the fuel level is very low, the pump can pick up air in turns, under braking or on slopes. The engine gets less fuel and misfires show up. The computer knows the fuel level, so it stores the P0313 code to tell these misfires apart from the ones caused by an ignition fault.

If the code shows up with a full tank, suspect the fuel level sensor or a real fuel delivery problem.

Driving on the reserve often also shortens the life of the pump, because the pump is cooled by the fuel itself.

P0313 code symptoms

  • Jerking or a momentary loss of power when the fuel is low.
  • Check engine light on.
  • Misfires recorded in the computer.

Likely causes of the P0313 code

  1. Very low fuel level. The usual cause.
  2. Fuel level sensor reading higher than the real level.
  3. Weak fuel pump that shows up more when the fuel is low.
  4. Clogged fuel filter.

How to diagnose the P0313 code step by step

  1. Remember the fuel level when the light came on.
  2. Check the level sensor. Fill up with a known amount of fuel and watch the gauge needle.
  3. Measure the fuel pressure with low fuel and in turns if possible.

How to fix the P0313 code

  • Refuel and clear the code.
  • Avoid driving on the reserve.
  • Repair the level sensor or the pump if they fail.

If the P0313 code comes back after refueling, test the fuel pressure and the level sensor before you assume the pump is bad.

Technical reference data

  • The minimum level needed to avoid sucking air depends on the tank design.
  • These values are for orientation only. Check the manufacturer data for your engine.

Brand-specific notes

P0313 on Nissan

This is a common code on Nissan vehicles, which log it together with P0300.

P0313 on GM

This is a common code on GM vehicles, which log it together with P0300.

Frequently asked questions about P0313

Is the P0313 code serious?
Normally not. Refueling is enough. If it comes back with a full tank, check the fuel level sensor.
Does driving on the reserve damage the pump?
Yes. The pump is cooled by the fuel, so running it low on fuel makes it work hotter and wear faster.
Can I drive with a P0313 code?
Yes, after you refuel. Until then the engine may hesitate or jerk, so get to a gas station as soon as you can.
How much does it cost to fix P0313?
Normally nothing. If the fuel level sensor has failed, the repair runs $80 to $400.
What does the P0313 code mean?
It is a generic OBD2 code that means misfires were detected while the fuel level was low. The computer uses it to separate fuel starvation from an ignition fault.
Will a P0313 code clear itself?
It can. Once you refuel and the engine runs without misfires for several drive cycles, the check engine light usually goes out. You can also clear it with a scan tool.

Related codes

Questions about the P0313 code

There are no questions about this code yet. Tell us about your case: vehicle, symptoms and what you have already checked.