Misfire Detected with Low Fuel
What it means
The engine computer detected a misfire at a time when the fuel level in the tank was low. The usual reason is that the fuel pump picks up air along with fuel in turns or on slopes, so pressure drops, and the computer records both conditions together.
Symptoms4
- Stumbling or jerking in turns, on climbs or under braking with a nearly empty tank.
- Sudden loss of power that goes away after refueling.
- Check engine light on.
- Occasional stalling when fuel is very low.
Possible causes6
- Frequent driving on a nearly empty tank, so the pump draws air with the fuel.
- Faulty fuel level sender making the gauge show more fuel than is in the tank.
- Weak fuel pump that only shows up at low fuel levels.
- Clogged pump strainer inside the tank or a clogged fuel filter.
- Damaged pump reservoir inside the tank that keeps fuel around the pump.
- Ordinary misfire causes such as plugs or coils if the code returns after refueling.
How to diagnose5
- Review the freeze frame data on a scan tool to see the fuel level when the code was set.
- Compare the fuel gauge with the amount you fill; if the tank takes more than the gauge suggested, suspect the level sender.
- Check for fuel level sensor codes such as P0460, P0462 or P0463.
- Measure fuel pressure with a low fuel level and under load, and compare it with the manufacturer specification.
- If the misfire returns with a full tank, treat it as a normal misfire and check ignition and injectors.
How to fix6
- Fill the tank and avoid driving with the gauge near empty.
- Clear the codes and see whether the code returns after refueling.
- Replace the fuel level sender if it reads wrong.
- Clean the pump strainer or replace the fuel filter.
- Replace the fuel pump or its reservoir if pressure is weak.
- Clear the codes after the repair and drive at different fuel levels to confirm the code does not return.
Repair cost
In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.
Often the fix is simply refueling and clearing the code; the cost rises if a fuel level sender or a new in-tank pump is needed.
Prices are rough estimates for common cars at independent workshops and vary with the car and the source of the part.
Prices last updated: September 2026
Frequently asked questions
Is filling the tank enough?
In most cases yes, if the code came from driving on low fuel. Clear the code after refueling; if it returns with a full tank, the problem is elsewhere.
Does driving on low fuel harm the pump?
Yes. Fuel cools the in-tank pump, and running it low often makes it run hotter, shortens its life and lets it draw air.
The gauge showed a quarter tank when the code appeared. Why?
The fuel level sender may be reading more than is actually there, so the driver thinks there is enough fuel. Compare how much goes in at the pump with the tank capacity.
This guide is for information only and does not replace an inspection by a qualified technician. If the fault involves brakes, steering, engine temperature, electrics or refrigerant, do not attempt the repair yourself.
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