What Is An Engine Misfire?

November 30, 2022

Blog -17 | Kwik Kar Auto Repair - Parker Road

Engine misfire is a common term in the automotive repair industry, but what does it actually mean? To give you a full understanding, we’ll present you with a scenario. Imagine you're driving and going to press your foot on the acceleration pedal, and you notice that your vehicle hesitates. Your vehicle takes longer to process and go up to speed. It may shake or vibrate your vehicle as it does this. In the worst cases, the engine may lose complete power for a brief second. This is what a misfiring engine is like, and it is not a pleasant experience for many drivers.

An engine misfire is a term used to say that a cylinder in the engine fails to power your car. There are many processes and parts to account for in the combustion and ignition process, such as spark plugs, fuel pumps, fuel injectors, oxygen sensors, filters, and more. It can be one or more of these parts that fail that lead you to the scenario described above.

When your engine misfires, it goes through many of the symptoms we mentioned above. Following the events, you may notice a yellow warning light on your vehicle’s dash. This is the check engine light, and it is a warning light that you should never overlook. As soon as you catch this on your dash, it is important that you bring your vehicle to a professional auto repair shop for a proper diagnosis by performing a computer diagnostics test. 

Computer diagnostics is the modern way to pinpoint many issues, including a misfiring engine. It involves technological equipment, state-of-the-art scan tools, and other equipment in combination with a technician with expertise and training to pinpoint your vehicle’s problem. Your vehicle’s computer is likely to spit out a code during the test, which will help one of our technicians locate and understand the problem better. 

Engine misfiring is one of those issues that are on the serious side of auto repair, so we urge you to please not ignore it. If you notice a check engine light on your dashboard, we welcome you to bring your car, SUV, or truck to Kwik Kar Auto Repair for accurate diagnostics and superior repairs today! 

What Causes Vehicle Exhaust Backfire? | Kwik Kar Auto Repair - Parker Road
January 31, 2025
Kwik Kar Auto Repair on Parker Road in Plano, TX, explains what causes vehicle exhaust backfire.
What Should I Do If My Car Overheats? | Kwik Kar Auto Repair
December 20, 2024
Kwik Kar Auto Repair in Parker Road, TX explains what to do if your car overheats. Learn essential steps to handle overheating and keep your vehicle safe.
Are SUVs More Expensive to Maintain? | Kwik Kar Auto Repair - Parker Road
November 29, 2024
Kwik Kar Auto Repair - Parker Road explores if SUVs are more expensive to maintain. Discover the factors affecting SUV maintenance costs.
Is It Safe to Drive With a Flashing Check Engine Light? | Kwik Kar Auto Repair - Parker Road
October 31, 2024
Kwik Kar Auto Repair - Parker Road explains if it’s safe to drive with a flashing check engine light. Discover the risks and necessary actions.
How to Make Traveling by Car with Kids Easier | Kwik Kar Auto Repair
September 27, 2024
Kwik Kar Auto Repair explains how to make traveling by car with kids easier. Learn essential tips for a smooth and stress-free journey with your family.
5 Most Common Ford F-150 Issues | Kwik Kar Auto Repair - Parker Road
August 26, 2024
Kwik Kar Auto Repair - Parker Road outlines the top 5 Ford F-150 problems. Prevent costly repairs with regular maintenance and expert diagnostics.
Why Do Americans Love Pickup Trucks? | Kwik Kar Auto Repair
July 26, 2024
America's love affair with trucks! Kwik Kar Auto Repair explores the reasons behind pickup truck popularity: utility, image, and more.
Why Is My Airbag Light On | Kwik Kar Auto Repair
June 27, 2024
Don't ignore your airbag light! Learn what it means and why it's important to address it ASAP.
What Happens If I Use the Wrong Fuel for My Car | Kwik Kar Auto Repair
May 27, 2024
Learn more about the consequences of using the incorrect fuel in your vehicle and learn how to avoid costly repairs.
Beat The Texas Heat With Spring AC Maintenance! | Kwik Kar Auto Repair - Parker Road
April 26, 2024
Dreading the Texas summer heat without a cool car? Kwik Kar Auto Repair can help! Learn why pre-season AC maintenance is vital and how to avoid a meltdown on the road.
More Posts
Share by: