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Why is My Engine Backfiring?

Posted on October 25, 2019

A misfiring engine is one of the most common (and frustrating) mechanical problems experienced by car owners. While an engine backfiring isn’t typically a major problem, having it diagnosed and sorted in a timely manner is important if you want to avoid a large repair bill. The longer it is ignored, the more damage will occur.
 
The signs and symptoms of a misfiring engine can be different depending on the make and model of the vehicle in question. Nevertheless, some common symptoms include a clanking or rattling sound from the engine, failure to start, and erratic engine response.

Over the course of this blog post, we’ll discuss what causes an engine to develop a misfire, and how this problem can be remedied.

An Ignition System Defect

Almost all modern internal combustion engines require electricity to function, and it’s the ignition system that delivers electric current to the spark plugs so they can produce the spark required for fuel and air combustion. The ignition system is comprised of a number of components that can corrode or wear out over time. When this happens, the ignition system is unable to provide the sufficient current required to facilitate combustion, ultimately resulting in a misfiring engine.

A Problem in the Fuel System

Another possible culprit behind a misfiring engine is a malfunctioning fuel system. When the fuel system is in optimal condition, it ensures that an uninterrupted flow of clean fuel is delivered to the cylinders. This is essential for an engine to provide a smooth power delivery. But just like the ignition system, the fuel system is also made up of various components that can develop problems or wear out over time. These include a clogged or worn out the fuel filter, dirty fuel injectors, and blocked fuel lines. All of these can cause an interruption in the delivery of fuel, potentially leading to a misfiring engine.

Damaged Cylinder Walls

A popping or crackling sound is a typical symptom of a misfiring engine, however, if these sounds are also accompanied by a smell of oil, fuel, and coolant, it’s possible that the engine cylinder walls are worn out or damaged. This is a major problem that requires the immediate attention of a professional mechanic.

Is it Safe to Drive with an Engine Backfiring?

In most cases, it isn’t unsafe to drive with a misfiring engine. Nevertheless, it’s highly recommended to get the issue diagnosed and remedied as soon as possible. If a misfiring engine is ignored for a prolonged period, it can cause significant damage to the major components of the engine. Even if you’re able to avoid major damage, you wouldn’t want your car to stall in the middle of the road at rush hour, would you?

Timely preventive maintenance and repairs are important if you want your vehicle to live a long healthy life. Schedule an appointment with Smitty’s Auto Service, one of the best auto repair shops in Gainesville, FL. and our highly skilled automotive technicians will ensure that your vehicle continues to perform optimally. Get in touch with us at (352) 373-3060 for further information.


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