Engine-CodesGeneric – P0311

P0311 Code - Cylinder 11 Misfire Detected

Quick Answer

When a vehicle's onboard computer detects a misfire in cylinder 11, it triggers diagnostic trouble code P0311. Common causes include Faulty spark plug in cylinder 11, Failing ignition coil specific to cylinder 11, Clogged or malfunctioning fuel injector in cylinder 11. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P0311 indicates Cylinder 11 Misfire Detected.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty spark plug in cylinder 11, Failing ignition coil specific to cylinder 11, Clogged or malfunctioning fuel injector in cylinder 11.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 07, 2024
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Code P0311 Description

When a vehicle's onboard computer detects a misfire in cylinder 11, it triggers diagnostic trouble code P0311. This code specifically indicates that the misfire has been detected in the eleventh cylinder of the engine. A misfire occurs when fuel in the cylinder fails to ignite at the proper time, causing a disruption in the combustion process. This can lead to a variety of issues, including reduced performance, decreased fuel efficiency, and potential damage to the engine over time.

OBDII Code P0311 - Cylinder 11 Misfire Detected
P0311 Code - Cylinder 11 Misfire Detected

Common Causes of P0311

  1. Faulty spark plug in cylinder 11.
  2. Failing ignition coil specific to cylinder 11.
  3. Clogged or malfunctioning fuel injector in cylinder 11.
  4. Vacuum leaks affecting cylinder 11.
  5. Internal engine damage in cylinder 11 (e.g., worn piston rings).

Symptoms of P0311

  1. Rough idle or vibrations when the engine is running.
  2. Loss of power or acceleration.
  3. Increased fuel consumption.
  4. Engine misfires or hesitation during acceleration.
  5. Check engine light illuminated on the dashboard.

How to Fix P0311

  1. Begin by diagnosing the specific cause of the misfire, using a scan tool to identify cylinder 11 and checking for related issues such as faulty spark plugs or ignition components.
  2. Replace the faulty spark plug in cylinder 11, ensuring proper gapping and installation.
  3. Test and replace the ignition coil if necessary for cylinder 11.
  4. Clean or replace the fuel injector in cylinder 11 to ensure proper fuel delivery.
  5. Conduct a compression test on cylinder 11 to check for internal engine damage and address any issues found.

Cost to Fix P0311

The cost of repairing a cylinder 11 misfire can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue and the extent of the repairs needed. Typically, replacing a single spark plug can cost between $50-100, while an ignition coil replacement may range from $150-300. Cleaning or replacing a fuel injector can cost around $100-300, and internal engine repairs can be more expensive, potentially costing several hundred to over a thousand dollars. Labor costs can also add to the overall expense, with rates typically ranging from $80-150 per hour. It is recommended to consult with a qualified mechanic for an accurate estimate based on the specific circumstances of the vehicle in question.

Tech Notes for P0311

The P0311 code means that cylinder #11 is misfiring or is randomly misfiring. Start by checking for intake leaks and if no leaks are found the next step is to replace the spark plugs on cylinder #11. If the problem persists more tests need to be done to diagnose the problem. See "Possible Causes" for the most common problems.

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Code P0311 Information for Specific Makes

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0311 Code

No Frequently Asked Questions about P0311 Code found.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0311 OBDII Code

  • What cylinder 11 misfire mean(fault code p0311) , when it’s a 6 cylinder engine ?

  • What model and year is your vehicle?

  • 2007 325i (3liter pertrol version ) thx e93

  • Double check the code, the P0311 code is for vehicles with 12 cylinders engine. There is no information in the factory service manual about that code.

  • It must be my cheap scan tools from eBay , I will take it into a garage tommorrow for another scan . Thx