There are three primary components that work together to allow your engine to fire its cylinders. Your vehicle needs ample fuel to burn, enough oxygen to facilitate the burn, snf the spark that sets things in motion. If these components are not adequate or present at the perfect time, the cylinder will not combust, as there will be no chain reaction to get the engine running.

If the combustion doesn’t work the way it should, and the cylinder is not fired, you will have a misfire in your engine. An engine misfire can take place both at the startup and while the vehicle is idling.

When this misfire takes place, your engine might stumble for a moment and possibly lose speed. Most misfires dissipate after a few moments and then your engine might regain its normal speed.

Even though your vehicle may recover, it’s important to remember that a misfire is a warning that something is wrong. Furthermore, a misfire takes a lot out of your vehicle’s engine and, if allowed to continue, can cause severe damage down the road. It is in your best interest (and possibly your safety) to have the vehicle inspected by a licensed mechanic right away if your Audi is experiencing misfires.

Recognizable Signs of Engine Misfiring

One of the most common indicators of a misfiring engine is a loud noise coming from under the hood. You might also notice your vehicle vibrating or shaking. If your engine backfires, you will most likely see and smell a puff of exhaust smoke. You may even be able to smell it from inside the vehicle.

The following signs could also mean your engine is misfiring:

  • your engine loses power
  • you have a hard time starting the engine
  • your fuel consumption rises
  • the emissions increase
  • your engine makes popping sounds
  • the intake or exhaust backfires
  • the engine stalls, jerks, or vibrates

Causes of Engine Misfires in Your Audi

Below are the most common reasons your engine will misfire. All of these can lead to further problems if not taken care of as soon as you suspect an issue:

  • Faulty Spark Plugs: The most common cause of a misfiring engine is a faulty spark plug. Spark plugs do not last a lifetime. Natural wear and tear can cause your spark plugs to wear down and require inspection or replacement. Check your vehicle manual to see if your vehicle has reached the mileage where it is recommended you replace your spark plugs. Some spark plugs may have actually incurred faulty manufacturing and may go bad before the indicated mileage is reached.
  • Failing Ignition System: If your engine is misfiring, it is possible that there is a malfunction in your vehicle’s ignition system. The ignition system includes many different parts that each work together to help your vehicle fire up. The ignition system also sends messages to your vehicle’s engine that helps it to start and function properly.
  • Bad Wiring: It’s a little harder to detect, but if your engine is misfiring, it could also be an issue with faulty wires. Issues in the ignition system’s wiring can lead to multiple issues with your vehicle’s performance. Like your spark plugs, these wires can either go bad due to normal use over time or could be an indicator of something else that is wrong with your engine. It is best to let a trained mechanic inspect your wires if you think that’s what is causing your engine to misfire.
  • Clogged Injectors: One more thing that might contribute to a misfiring engine is an issue with your vehicle’s fuel injection system. For example, if the injectors in the system are clogged, it is very likely to cause the engine to misfire. Clogged injectors are not able to transport enough fuel to the engine during combustion. When this happens, you will probably not get the right fuel and air mixture, which can lead to a misfiring engine.
  • Improper Fuel-to-Air Ratio: As mentioned above, if there is a malfunction in the ignition system, you could wind up with an improper fuel/air mixture in the combustion chamber. If this occurs, you can end up with misfires. If you take your vehicle to a shop and report any of the above symptoms, the mechanic will likely inspect the fuel system and various sensors to help narrow down the issue.

Bavarium Autoworks for Car’s Health

If you live in or around Cupertino, Palo Alto, Audi Spark Plug Check San Jose, Santa Clara, Saratoga, or Mountain View, CA, bring your Audi in today for inspection and repairs at Bavarium Autoworks. We look forward to becoming your trusted Audi service and repair shop.

Call Now!