Engine misfire occurs when one or more of the cylinders fail to provide power to your vehicle with the possibility of raw fuel making its way into the catalytic converter. You should consider engine misfire to be a severe condition and have it repaired right away to avoid expensive repairs and a possible car fire. The longer you ignore it, the more damage will occur.
There are three common reasons for engine misfire that vary in seriousness and cost. They include:
- A defect of the ignition system. Ignition system misfire is, perhaps, the most common cause of engine misfire, and thankfully the least expensive. Failing spark plugs, ignition wires, and coils, among other things can cause this kind of engine misfire.
- A defect of the fuel system. Due to expensive parts and longer repair and diagnostic times, this type of repair is slightly more expensive. Faulty fuel injectors are an example of the kind of problem that is related to a defective fuel system.
- A defect of the internal engine. Examples of internal engine defects include a faulty cylinder head, worn pistons and rings, and a loose or worn timing belt. Having a problem with the internal engine is your wort-case scenario. The parts are costly, and the repairs are typically very labor intensive.
When you have occasional engine misfire, it may not be noticeable to you beyond the fact that your check engine light is coming on. However, if the misfire is regular, then it is hard to miss. With regular misfire, the engine will use more gas than normal, lack power, and run rough. Occasionally it may feel like a vibration or increase your HC emissions.
The occasional misfire may go by unnoticed, but regular misfire is hard to miss. The engine will feel rough, lack power, and use more gas than usual. At times, a misfire may feel like a vibration. A misfire can also cause an increase in hydrocarbon (HC) emissions.
Regardless of the cause, your vehicle will fail emissions if the check engine light is on. Bring your vehicle into Meridian Automotive for a Check Engine Light Diagnostic Service so we can determine and fix the problem. Remember, we are an emissions repair and retest facility. If you have recently failed emissions we can diagnose and repair your vehicle as well as re-test it to get you your emissions certificate.
Never ignore engine misfire, even if it appears as though your vehicle drives “just fine.” Doing so could lead to more damage and expensive repairs. If you suspect that your engine is struggling due to an engine misfire, please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have. When you address issues like engine misfire in a timely manner and perform routine maintenance on your vehicle, you preserve its safety and longevity.
Meridian Automotive provides complete auto repair in Meridian, Idaho. We’ve been Meridian’s auto repair experts for over 25 years. Don’t just trust anyone, trust the experts at Meridian Automotive. Call us today (208) 297-5573 or schedule an appointment online
