An engine misfire is a condition in which one or more engine cylinders do not produce power. Multiple factors, ranging from a faulty oxygen sensor or a clogged fuel injector to a fouled spark plug, can cause engine misfire.
Types of Engine Misfires
An engine misfire may occur because of a malfunction or problem with one or more components that relate to your internal combustion reaction.
Spark Misfires
Spark misfires occur when there is a problem with your spark plugs. Spark plugs are small parts in the petrol engine that ignite, beginning the combustion reaction. A problem with your spark plugs will result in low engine power.
If you are experiencing a misfire due to spark plugs, you should replace these components and ensure that the ignition wires linked to the spark plugs are in proper condition.
Fuel Misfires
A clogged fuel filter may be an issue for the ignition. A dirty fuel cylinder may also prevent the right amount of fuel from entering the cylinder.
Fuel-related misfires can happen suddenly and usually occur when the engine is idling rather than driving at regular speeds.
Mechanical Misfires
Mechanical misfires are the most damaging and complex types of misfires. They occur due to several factors. For example, it can happen when the timing belts or chains under the hood slip and disrupt the engine combustion process. Damaged valve train and compromised vacuum lines also cause mechanical misfire.
Symptoms of a Misfire
Whether you are experiencing spark misfire, fuel misfire, or mechanical misfire, you are likely to experience some of these shared signs and symptoms common with engine misfire. Do not wait for "Check Engine' light to illuminate
Sluggish Acceleration
If your engine is misfiring, your car may experience problems or struggle to reach adequate speeds. In fact, engine misfires happen most frequently when your car is continuously accelerating under load.
The response may be sluggish or slow when you step on the gas. You may also experience jerking motion when you accelerate.
Rough Idling
When your engine idles in a rough or clunky manner, it could be having a misfire. Ideally, when experiencing an engine misfire and the air-to-fuel mixture in the cylinder is compromised, the engine might jump up and down, leading to a bumpy driving experience.
Black Exhaust
An engine misfire may create a cloud of thick, black exhaust. This shows that the air-to-fuel mixture has been compromised. If your car is emitting exhaust in this manner, your engine may be suffering from a misfire.
Engine Sound Changes
When your engine is suffering from a misfire, you may hear sudden changes in the way your engine sounds. If you hear odd sounds from your engine bay, you should turn off your radio and listen for any sputtering, clanking, or coughing.
Getting Started
If you experience any of the symptoms above or suspect your engine to be experiencing a misfire, we invite you to bring your vehicle into River City Tire & Automotive.