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Why Is My Car Misfiring?

  • Writer: Tyler Ellis
    Tyler Ellis
  • Sep 22
  • 2 min read

Why Your Car Might Be Misfiring

If your engine feels rough, shakes, or loses power, you may be dealing with a misfire. Many drivers ask, “Why is my car misfiring?”, and the problem usually comes from issues with spark, fuel, or compression. A misfiring engine not only affects performance but can also cause long-term damage if ignored.

At Round Rock Auto Center, we diagnose and repair misfires so your car runs smoothly again.


Common Causes of Engine Misfires

A misfire happens when one or more cylinders fail to fire properly. Common causes include:

  • Worn spark plugs – Old or fouled plugs are the leading cause of misfires.

  • Bad ignition coils – A failing coil can stop the spark from reaching the cylinder.

  • Clogged fuel injectors – If the injector doesn’t deliver fuel evenly, combustion suffers.

  • Vacuum leaks – Extra air in the intake can create a lean condition.

  • Low fuel pressure – A weak pump or clogged filter can starve the engine.

  • Sensor issues – Bad crankshaft, camshaft, or oxygen sensors can disrupt timing and fuel delivery.

  • Mechanical problems – Worn valves, piston rings, or timing chain issues can also cause misfires.


How to Spot a Misfire

Signs your car is misfiring include:

  • Rough idle – The car shakes while sitting still.

  • Loss of power – Especially noticeable during acceleration.

  • Check engine light – Often triggered by misfire codes like P0300.

  • Poor fuel economy – Misfires waste fuel and reduce efficiency.

  • Strong fuel smell – Unburned fuel may exit through the exhaust.


Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Misfires

Driving with a misfire can:

  • Damage the catalytic converter from unburned fuel.

  • Cause severe engine wear over time.

  • Lead to poor performance and safety concerns.


Sign with blue symbols of a person waving beside a car. Text reads "halen en brengen." Cloudy sky in the background.
Why Is My Car Misfiring?

How We Fix Misfires at Round Rock Auto Center

When you bring your vehicle in, we:

  1. Scan for diagnostic trouble codes.

  2. Inspect spark plugs, coils, and wires.

  3. Test fuel injectors and fuel pressure.

  4. Check for vacuum leaks or sensor failures.

  5. Repair or replace faulty components and confirm smooth operation.


Restore Smooth Engine Performance

If you’ve been wondering why your car is misfiring, don’t wait until it causes major engine damage. Contact Round Rock Auto Center today for a diagnostic appointment and expert repair.

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2003 Brushy Creek Rd.

Round Rock, TX 78664

512-308-6347

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