Misfire Detected with Low Fuel
The P0313 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Misfire Detected with Low Fuel. This is a critical severity code.
- Keep driving?
- No -- stop driving
- DIY difficulty
- easy
- Estimated cost
- $50 - $600 (parts and labor)
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Read and clear misfire codes. Shows which cylinder is misfiring so you know exactly what to replace.
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Common Symptoms
- Engine misfires with low fuel level
- Check Engine Light illuminated
- Engine sputters and hesitates
- Rough idle when fuel is low
- Engine stalls at low fuel levels
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Fuel level too low -- fuel pump unable to maintain pressure Very High
- Failing fuel pump exposed by low fuel conditions High
- Clogged fuel filter reducing fuel flow at low levels High
- Fuel tank pickup tube or sock filter clogged with debris Moderate
- Faulty fuel level sensor giving incorrect readings Low
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
-
Add fuel to bring the tank above 1/4 full and clear the code -- if it does not return, the issue was simply low fuel
-
Monitor fuel pressure with a gauge at idle and under load -- should maintain 40-60 PSI consistently
-
Replace the fuel filter if it has not been changed per the maintenance schedule
-
If misfires persist with adequate fuel, test the fuel pump pressure and volume output
-
Inspect the fuel tank for contamination or debris that may clog the pickup tube
Common Fixes by Vehicle
What techs usually find when diagnosing P0313 on specific vehicles — tap your vehicle for the fix and the exact part:
2008-2020 Ford F-150/Explorer/Expedition easy DIY
P0313 is a SAFEGUARD code -- the engine triggers it when the tank is too low and the fuel pump cavitates, causing a misfire. Fix is simple: fill the tank and clear the code. If it returns with a full tank, replace the in-tank fuel pump module.
Labor: 5 min (fill up)2005-2016 Ford Focus/Fusion/Escape moderate DIY
Weak fuel pump struggles to maintain rail pressure when the tank is below 1/4. Test rail pressure at idle and under load -- spec is 55-65 PSI. Replace pump if it drops under acceleration. Airtex E2478 is the OE-equivalent pump for most Ford applications.
Labor: 2-3 hours2006-2015 Ford Mustang moderate DIY
Check the fuel level sensor sending unit -- if it reads falsely low, the PCM will trigger P0313 thinking the tank is empty. Scan tool live data should match the dashboard gauge. Sender is part of the fuel pump module.
Labor: 2 hoursFrequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with code P0313?
Add fuel immediately. If the code clears after refueling and does not return, the issue was simply low fuel. If it persists, have the fuel system inspected as the pump may be failing.
Can running on low fuel damage my engine?
Yes. Running on very low fuel causes the fuel pump to overheat since it is cooled by the surrounding fuel. It can also pick up sediment from the bottom of the tank, clogging the fuel filter and injectors.
How low is too low for fuel?
As a general rule, try to keep your tank above 1/4 full. Running below 1/8 tank regularly stresses the fuel pump and increases the risk of misfires and fuel delivery problems.
Sources
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
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