What Is An Engine Misfire?

An engine misfire is a failure in the sequence of events during combustion. Generally, combustion involves the induction of fuel and air into the combustion chamber, compression of the fuel inside the cylinder, power supply from the spark, and the air-fuel mixture’s burning before the burnt gas is expelled. If something in this sequence does not happen, the engine will misfire.

Many car engines have four to eight cylinders. If one stops working, the engine will misfire and not function at its full potential. That is where the name comes from, a cylinder or more failing to fire as they should. The combustion process is an intricate one that is made up of controlled explosions. This stress means that something is likely to break down in the long run. When something finally goes amiss, the engine will misfire, and a check engine warning light comes on.

What Happens if the Engine Misfires?

It is essential to know what happens when an engine misfires and what you can do about it. The reason is that the car could still move even when it has misfired.

Here are some of the signs of engine misfires:

Rough acceleration: If you press the gas pedal and feel the car jerking forward, it means that the combustion system is struggling to power the engine.

Rough idling: One of the popular ways you can notice misfiring is an engine that struggles to stay still when starting or stopping at a light.

Poor acceleration: If the engine has a faulty oxygen sensor, it may be unable to accelerate. The car may also get into a limp mode where it only performs in certain RPMs.

Engine noise: In most cases, there is an audible sound from the engine when it misfires. The sound feels like chuffing, a pop, or a backfire. The backfire, in particular, happens when inadequately burned gas is pushed out of the cylinder and ignites in the exhaust system, creating a loud bang.

Stalling and underperformance: Your car may stall on the road or be underpowered, depending on the extent of the misfiring

If you need engine repair, we invite you to bring your vehicle to our auto repair shop today!

Jordan Weine
Owner – Bay Diagnostic
Serving Brooklyn Since 1985

For over 37 years Bay Diagnostic has been a Brooklyn staple helping you get back on the road faster than the dealer can. A full-service automotive repair shop in Brooklyn that specializes in scheduled service, preventive maintenance and concierge service. At Bay Diagnostic, you will come to expect what the automotive repair experience should be, fast, easy and reliable. A one stop shop for your vehicle needs.

We proudly service Audi, BMW, Land Rover, Mercedes, Mini, Porsche, Smart Car and Volkswagen vehicles.