What causes fault code P0311?

• Most likely: Faulty spark plug or ignition coil (Coil-on-plug) • Likely: Clogged or leaking fuel injector • Possible: Intake manifold vacuum leak near cylinder 11 • Rare: Low engine compression (valve issues or piston ring failure) • Rare: Wiring harness fault or poor connection at the coil/injector connector

How do you fix fault code P0311?

STEP 1: Inspect the ignition coil and spark plug on cylinder 11. Swap the coil with cylinder 1 to see if the fault follows (to P0301). STEP 2: Measure ignition coil resistance (primary side approx 0.5-1.5 Ohms). Verify 12V supply and ground at the connector using a multimeter. STEP 3: Perform a compression test on cylinder 11 to rule out mechanical internal engine damage. Normal values are typically 150-190 PSI. STEP 4: Test the fuel injector resistance (typically 12-16 Ohms) and perform an output test/injector balance test using a scan tool.

Powertrain (Engine & Gearbox)Standard EOBD

P0311 - Cylinder 11 Misfire Detected

Q: What are the symptoms of fault code P0311?

• Check Engine Light (MIL) illuminated or flashing • Engine hesitation or rough idling • Significant loss of engine power (Limp mode may be triggered) • Decreased fuel economy • Smell of unburned fuel from the exhaust

Last updated:1 February 2026

Related:Spark plug, Ignition Coil, Fuel Injector, CKP-sensor / Crankshaft Position Sensor, Engine Control Unit (ECU)

System

Powertrain (Engine & Gearbox)

Related Fault Codes

P0300

Random or Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected

P0301

Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected

P0302

Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected

P0303

Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected

Technical Description

P0311 indicates that the Engine Control Unit (ECU) has detected multiple misfire events on cylinder 11. The ECU monitors the crankshaft position sensor (CKP) to detect fluctuations in angular velocity during each cylinder's power stroke. If the crankshaft does not accelerate as expected for cylinder 11, a misfire is recorded. This code is most common on V12 engines. Excessive misfiring can lead to catalyst damage due to unburned fuel entering the exhaust stream, often indicated by a flashing Check Engine Light.

Possible Causes

Faulty spark plug or ignition coil (Coil-on-plug)

Clogged or leaking fuel injector

Intake manifold vacuum leak near cylinder 11

Low engine compression (valve issues or piston ring failure)

Wiring harness fault or poor connection at the coil/injector connector

Symptoms

Check Engine Light (MIL) illuminated or flashing

Engine hesitation or rough idling

Significant loss of engine power (Limp mode may be triggered)

Decreased fuel economy

Smell of unburned fuel from the exhaust

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P0311 - Cylinder 11 Misfire Detected

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P0311 - Cylinder 11 Misfire Detected

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