Fault code P0363 is called “Misfire Detected โ Fueling Disabled” but in different programs it may be called differently. This fault designation applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II.
Technical description and explained code P0363
This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code. Error P0363 is considered a general code because it applies to all makes and models of vehicles. Although the specific repair steps may vary slightly depending on the model.
The stored code P0363 indicates that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected an ignition failure and has disabled the fuel injector for the affected cylinder. It can also be said that this problem is more common on vehicles of European origin.
The PCM monitors changes in input signals from the crankshaft position sensor (CPS) and the camshaft position sensor/sensors (CMPS). To determine if an ignition skip is present, and in which cylinder the ignition skips occur.
Initially, when an ignition skip is detected, the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) may flash rapidly for a period of time and stop (instead of lighting steadily). The flashing Check Engine light is intended to inform the driver.
Driving in conjunction with a cylinder ignition skip may cause damage to the catalytic converter. The ignition skip code must be stored independently of the flashing MIL indicator, although it may be stored as a pending code.
In some vehicles (usually European manufacturers), when the PCM detects multiple cycles with an ignition skip code. The fuel supply to the affected cylinder is cut off.
This is usually accomplished by disconnecting the fuel injector ground pulse for a particular cylinder. Cutting off fuel to a particular cylinder is necessary because excess fuel can cause the catalytic converter to fail.
If ignition failure is detected, code P0363 will be stored, the fuel supply to the affected cylinder will be cut off, and the MIL indicator may illuminate. This problem is usually accompanied by one or more cylinder ignition misfire codes.
Other ignition misfire codes including P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304, etc.
Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions
The main signal that an error P0363 has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.
It can also be warning signs such as:
- Uneven or intermittent engine operation, especially during acceleration.
- Decreased performance as well as engine power.
- Other codes associated with ignition skips are likely to persist.
- The “Check engine” control lamp may be flashing.
Fault P0363 is quite serious, as its occurrence can cause ignition skips in the cylinders, which can lead to complete engine failure. If this code is detected, it is recommended to troubleshoot it as soon as possible.
Factors that can cause this error code
The error code P0363 can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:
- Failed spark plug.
- Faulty ignition coils or coil packs.
- Moisture or oil in spark plug compartment.
- Cracked or torn wires or spark plug duster.
- Bad fuel injector.
How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P0363
Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P0363:
- Check the spark plugs.
- Check the high-voltage wires.
- Diagnose the ignition coils.
- If everything is OK with the items above, check the injectors.
- The problem may be coming from the PCM unit or an error in the software.
Diagnose and repair of problems
The first order of business is always to check the maintenance bulletins (TSB) for your particular vehicle. Your problem may already be a known problem with a known fix issued by the manufacturer. This can save you time and money during diagnosis.
Code P0363 is information on a stored cylinder ignition skip code. It will also be necessary to diagnose any other stored skip codes. These are labeled P0301 through P0312.
There are many tools available to check the coil, spark plug and fuel injector. But the simple method of replacing components between cylinders is the most effective.
It can’t always be done with fuel injectors, but it works well with coils and spark plugs. Which fail much more often than fuel injectors.
To fix the problem, you will need a scanner to read the stored codes. The scanner will also come in handy for clearing codes as the diagnostic process continues. After completing the steps of replacing components to perform the diagnosis, the codes need to be cleared.
It is best to replace the spark plugs in a set if the vehicle in question is approaching the recommended replacement interval. However, find the faulty part before performing any service. When replacing the ignition coil for a particular cylinder, a spark plug replacement is recommended. This will save you time and money in the long run.
Sometimes when this problem is detected, some technicians will assume that the injector of the respective cylinder has failed. And suggest replacing it, even though it’s just a reaction (caused by the PCM) to the ignition skip. This is a misconception if you are not familiar with the fuel shutoff system used in some models.
If error P0363 is stored without any ignition skip codes in the cylinders, you should suspect a faulty PCM or PCM programming error.
Additional diagnostic notes:
Code P0363 must be erased before the faulty parts are replaced and the pulse on the injector of the corresponding cylinder is restored.
When using the replacement method to check the spark plugs, use caution when unscrewing the plugs from the aluminum cylinder heads. The threads in aluminum are very brittle and can be damaged if not allowed to cool properly.
On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently
Fault code P0363 can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:
- BMW
- Chevrolet
- Datsun (on-DO)
- Ford
- Hyundai
- Mazda
- Mini
- LADA (Granta, Kalina, Largus, Priora, Vesta, Xray)
- VAZ (2104, 2105, 2107, 2110, 2114, 2115)
Fault code P0363 can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P0014, P1301, P1302, P1303, P1304, P1343, P1345, P1347, P1349, P1357.
