P0316: How to Diagnose & Fix — Misfire Detected on Startup (First 1000 Revolutions)
4 vehicles · 2 makes · $500-$15,000 repair
How to diagnose and fix P0316: most-reported vehicles
Ranked by owner reports. Each card gives the symptoms, how to confirm the cause, the fix, parts and sources for that vehicle.
Lincoln MKZ · 2013–2020
Second-generation MKZ models equipped with the 2.0L EcoBoost turbo engine can develop an internal coolant leak where coolant seeps from the cooling jacket into a combustion chamber, commonly cylinder 2. This is attributed to a cylinder head/block design and sealing defect. Burned coolant causes misfires, white exhaust smoke, chronically low coolant with no external leak, and in severe cases overheating and complete engine failure. The defect is the subject of a Ford EcoBoost coolant-intrusion class action.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light with misfire code
- Coolant level dropping with no visible external leak
- White smoke from exhaust
- Rough idle / hesitation
- Engine overheating
- Sweet coolant smell
How to Fix
Mild cases may be addressed with a head gasket or cylinder head replacement, but many vehicles require a long block or full engine replacement (commonly $5,000-$15,000). Affected owners should check for any applicable Ford coolant-intrusion warranty extension/class-action reimbursement and document low-coolant and misfire history.
Sources for this issue (4)
- Newer Ford, Lincoln Vehicles Plagued by Ecoboost Engine Defect Linked to Coolant Leaks, Class Action Says - ClassAction.orgarticle
- Ford 2.0L EcoBoost Coolant Issue And Fix Detailed By Tech - Ford Authorityarticle
- 2.0 EcoBoost Lawsuit - Lincoln MKZ Forumforum
- 2017 Lincoln MKZ Engine Problems - CarComplaints.comarticle
Ford Bronco · 2021–2023
A subset of 2.3L Bronco owners report unexplained coolant loss, startup misfires, white exhaust smoke, and rough running traced to coolant entering one or more cylinders. Similar to other Ford 2.3L applications, the root cause is often linked to cylinder head casting issues or sealing failure in the head-gasket area. If ignored, the condition can lead to catalytic converter damage or engine replacement.
Common Symptoms
- Coolant loss with no visible external leak
- Cold-start misfire
- White exhaust smoke
- Rough idle
- Sweet smell from exhaust
How to Fix
Technicians typically pressure-test the cooling system, inspect spark plugs for steam cleaning, and borescope cylinders for coolant intrusion. Repairs range from head gasket and cylinder head replacement to complete long-block replacement depending on severity. Monitoring coolant level and addressing misfires early can prevent more extensive damage.
Sources for this issue (1)
Ford Flex · 2010–2019
The 3.5L EcoBoost in the Flex (the same engine as the Taurus SHO, EcoBoost/Limited AWD models) is direct-injected only, so no fuel ever washes across the back of the intake valves. Oil vapor pulled through the PCV system and exhaust residue from valve overlap bake onto the valve stems and seats. As the deposits thicken they disrupt the low-velocity airflow at idle first, producing a rough or lopey cold idle, then progress to misfires under load, hesitation, lost boost response and reduced fuel economy. It is a mileage-driven wear item, not a defect that appears suddenly, and is typically noticeable somewhere past 60,000-80,000 miles depending on driving pattern and oil change discipline.
Common Symptoms
- Rough or unstable idle, worst when cold
- Misfire under load or during acceleration
- Hesitation and reduced boost response
- Drop in fuel economy
- Check engine light with cylinder misfire codes
How to Fix
Confirm with a borescope through a removed intake runner before spending money - misfire codes alone do not prove carbon. The effective cleaning is mechanical: remove the intake manifold and walnut-shell blast the intake ports and valve backs, then replace the intake gaskets and spark plugs while everything is open. Chemical intake cleaners and fuel additives cannot reach the valves on a DI-only engine. To slow reaccumulation, fit a quality oil catch can on the PCV line, use a full synthetic that resists volatility, and keep oil changes at 5,000 miles. Plan on repeating the service roughly every 40,000-60,000 miles.
Sources for this issue (2)
Ford F-150 · 2011–2020
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P0316 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0316 mean?
P0316 stands for "Misfire Detected on Startup (First 1000 Revolutions)." This code means the engine computer detected a misfire during the first roughly 1,000 engine revolutions right after startup. It is an early-warning indicator that usually accompanies other specific misfire codes (such as P0300 or P030X) identifying which cylinder is affected. The computer monitors crankshaft speed variations to catch combustion problems immediately on cold start. It can cause rough running on startup, hesitation, and may indicate a developing ignition, fuel, or mechanical fault.
What are the most common causes of P0316?
The most common causes of P0316 are: Worn or fouled spark plugs, Faulty ignition coil(s), Faulty or clogged fuel injector(s), Low fuel pressure or weak fuel pump, Vacuum or intake leak, Carbon buildup or compression loss, Faulty crankshaft/camshaft position sensor. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0316?
Repair costs for P0316 range from $500 to $15,000, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0316?
Au7o has documented P0316 across 4 vehicle models from 2 manufacturers: Ford, Lincoln.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.