What Are the Symptoms and Causes of a Misfire in a Car?

A Misfire In A Car can manifest in several ways, impacting performance and potentially causing further damage. Identifying the symptoms and understanding the potential causes are crucial for prompt diagnosis and repair. CAR-TOOL.EDU.VN is here to guide you through understanding car misfires, their effects, and how to address them, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly. Addressing a misfire promptly can prevent more significant engine problems and safeguard your car’s longevity.

1. What Exactly Is a Misfire in a Car Engine?

A misfire in a car engine occurs when one or more cylinders fail to ignite the air-fuel mixture properly. According to a study by the University of Michigan’s Automotive Research Center in 2022, misfires are most commonly caused by issues within the ignition system. This incomplete combustion leads to a loss of power, rough running, and potential damage to other engine components. It’s important to understand that a misfire isn’t always a catastrophic failure; it can stem from various manageable issues.

1.1 The Combustion Cycle Explained

To fully grasp what a misfire is, let’s quickly review the four stages of a standard four-stroke combustion cycle:

1. Intake: The piston moves down, drawing a mixture of air and fuel into the cylinder.
2. Compression: The piston moves up, compressing the air-fuel mixture.
3. Combustion: The spark plug ignites the compressed mixture, forcing the piston down.
4. Exhaust: The piston moves up again, pushing the burnt gases out of the cylinder.

A misfire happens when any of these stages are disrupted, preventing complete combustion in one or more cylinders. This can be due to a lack of spark, improper air-fuel mixture, or compression issues.

1.2 Types of Misfires

Misfires can be categorized as follows:

• Random Misfire: Occurs intermittently and affects multiple cylinders. This usually points to a problem that impacts the entire engine, like a vacuum leak or fuel delivery issue.
• Single-Cylinder Misfire: Consistently affects only one specific cylinder. This often indicates a problem specific to that cylinder, such as a faulty spark plug, fuel injector, or ignition coil.
• Intermittent Misfire: Occurs sporadically, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause. This type of misfire may only happen under specific conditions, such as during acceleration or at high speeds.

1.3 Why Misfires Are a Concern

Misfires aren’t just a nuisance; they can have serious consequences:

• Reduced Fuel Economy: Unburnt fuel is wasted, leading to lower MPG. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that even a single misfiring cylinder can reduce fuel economy by as much as 10-15%.
• Increased Emissions: Misfires cause a spike in harmful emissions, which can damage catalytic converters. A 2023 study by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) showed that vehicles with persistent misfires had significantly higher levels of hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides in their exhaust.
• Engine Damage: Raw fuel entering the exhaust system can damage the catalytic converter and other components. Prolonged misfires can also lead to overheating and wear on cylinder walls and pistons.
• Poor Performance: Loss of power, rough idling, and hesitation during acceleration are common symptoms.

2. What Are the Common Symptoms of a Car Misfire?

Recognizing the signs of a misfire is crucial for addressing the issue early and preventing further damage. Here are some common symptoms:

2.1 Rough Idling

One of the most noticeable signs of a misfire is a rough or shaky idle. When the engine is idling, it should run smoothly with minimal vibrations. A misfire disrupts this balance, causing the engine to shake or vibrate noticeably. This can be felt through the steering wheel, seats, or even seen in the engine itself.

2.2 Loss of Power

A misfire reduces the engine’s ability to generate power. You might notice that your car struggles to accelerate, especially when climbing hills or carrying heavy loads. The engine may feel sluggish and unresponsive, making it difficult to maintain speed or overtake other vehicles.

2.3 Jerking or Hesitation During Acceleration

When accelerating, a misfiring engine might exhibit jerking or hesitation. This is caused by the inconsistent combustion in one or more cylinders, leading to uneven power delivery. The car may feel like it’s stumbling or momentarily losing power before regaining it.

2.4 Unusual Noises

Misfires can sometimes produce unusual noises, such as popping, sputtering, or backfiring. These sounds are caused by unburnt fuel igniting in the exhaust system. The noises may be more pronounced during acceleration or deceleration.

2.5 Check Engine Light (CEL)

The check engine light is a telltale sign of a problem with your car’s engine. When a misfire occurs, the engine control unit (ECU) detects the issue and illuminates the CEL. The CEL may be solid or flashing, depending on the severity of the misfire. A flashing CEL indicates a more serious problem that requires immediate attention.

2.6 Poor Fuel Economy

As mentioned earlier, misfires lead to reduced fuel economy. If you notice that you’re filling up your gas tank more often than usual, it could be a sign of a misfire. The unburnt fuel wasted during a misfire directly impacts your MPG.

2.7 Smell of Fuel

In some cases, a misfire can cause a noticeable smell of fuel, especially if the unburnt fuel is making its way into the exhaust system. This smell may be more apparent when the engine is idling or after a short drive.

2.8 Engine Vibrations

Excessive engine vibrations, especially at idle, are a strong indicator of a misfire. These vibrations are caused by the imbalance in the engine’s firing order, as one or more cylinders fail to contribute their share of power.

2.9 Difficulty Starting

A misfire can sometimes make it difficult to start your car. The engine may crank for a longer time than usual or struggle to ignite. This is more common in cold weather or when the engine has been sitting for a while.

2.10 Failed Emissions Test

If your car fails an emissions test, a misfire could be the culprit. Misfires increase the levels of harmful pollutants in the exhaust, causing the car to exceed the permissible limits.

3. What Are the Primary Causes of Engine Misfires?

Numerous factors can contribute to engine misfires. Here are some of the most common:

3.1 Faulty Spark Plugs

Spark plugs are responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture in the cylinders. Over time, spark plugs can wear out, become fouled, or develop cracks, leading to a weak or nonexistent spark. A 2021 study by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) found that faulty spark plugs were a leading cause of misfires in older vehicles.

• Symptoms of Faulty Spark Plugs:

  • Rough idling
  • Loss of power
  • Difficulty starting
  • Poor fuel economy

• Solution: Replace the spark plugs with new ones that match your car’s specifications. Consult your owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic for the correct spark plug type.

3.2 Defective Ignition Coils

Ignition coils provide the high-voltage spark needed to ignite the air-fuel mixture. A faulty ignition coil can fail to deliver sufficient voltage, resulting in a misfire. Ignition coils can degrade over time due to heat and vibration.

• Symptoms of Defective Ignition Coils:

  • Rough idling
  • Loss of power
  • Check engine light (CEL)
  • Single-cylinder misfire

• Solution: Test the ignition coils using a multimeter or an oscilloscope to determine if they are functioning correctly. Replace any faulty coils with new ones.

3.3 Clogged or Leaking Fuel Injectors

Fuel injectors spray fuel into the cylinders. Clogged or leaking fuel injectors can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to a misfire. Clogged injectors can restrict fuel flow, while leaking injectors can cause an over-rich mixture.

• Symptoms of Clogged or Leaking Fuel Injectors:

  • Rough idling
  • Loss of power
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Smell of fuel

• Solution: Clean the fuel injectors using a fuel injector cleaner or have them professionally cleaned. Replace any injectors that are leaking or severely clogged.

3.4 Vacuum Leaks

Vacuum leaks can disrupt the air-fuel mixture by allowing unmetered air into the engine. This can lean out the mixture, causing a misfire. Vacuum leaks can occur in hoses, gaskets, or intake manifolds.

• Symptoms of Vacuum Leaks:

  • Rough idling
  • Loss of power
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Hissing sound from the engine bay

• Solution: Inspect all vacuum hoses and connections for cracks, leaks, or damage. Replace any faulty components. Use a smoke machine to help locate hard-to-find leaks.

3.5 Low Compression

Low compression in one or more cylinders can prevent the air-fuel mixture from igniting properly, leading to a misfire. Low compression can be caused by worn piston rings, damaged valves, or a blown head gasket.

• Symptoms of Low Compression:

  • Rough idling
  • Loss of power
  • Difficulty starting
  • Excessive oil consumption

• Solution: Perform a compression test to measure the compression in each cylinder. If compression is low, further diagnostics are needed to determine the cause. Repair or replace any damaged components.

3.6 Faulty Oxygen Sensors

Oxygen sensors monitor the amount of oxygen in the exhaust and provide feedback to the ECU, which adjusts the air-fuel mixture accordingly. A faulty oxygen sensor can provide incorrect readings, leading to an improper air-fuel mixture and a misfire.

• Symptoms of Faulty Oxygen Sensors:

  • Rough idling
  • Loss of power
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Check engine light (CEL)

• Solution: Test the oxygen sensors using a scan tool or a multimeter to determine if they are functioning correctly. Replace any faulty sensors with new ones.

3.7 Issues with the Catalytic Converter

A failing or clogged catalytic converter can create backpressure in the exhaust system, leading to a misfire. The catalytic converter is responsible for reducing harmful emissions, and when it becomes restricted, it can negatively impact engine performance.

• Symptoms of Catalytic Converter Issues:

  • Loss of power
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Check engine light (CEL)
  • Rattling sound from the exhaust system

• Solution: Inspect the catalytic converter for damage or blockage. If it is clogged or failing, replace it with a new one.

3.8 Problems with the Mass Airflow (MAF) Sensor

The MAF sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine. A faulty MAF sensor can provide incorrect readings to the ECU, leading to an improper air-fuel mixture and a misfire.

• Symptoms of MAF Sensor Problems:

  • Rough idling
  • Loss of power
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Check engine light (CEL)

• Solution: Clean the MAF sensor using a MAF sensor cleaner. If cleaning doesn’t resolve the issue, replace the sensor with a new one.

3.9 Timing Issues

Incorrect engine timing can cause misfires. Timing issues can be caused by a worn timing belt or chain, a faulty crankshaft position sensor, or a faulty camshaft position sensor.

• Symptoms of Timing Issues:

  • Rough idling
  • Loss of power
  • Difficulty starting
  • Check engine light (CEL)

• Solution: Check the timing belt or chain for wear or damage. Inspect the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors. Adjust or replace any faulty components.

3.10 Computer Problems

While less common, problems with the engine control unit (ECU) can cause misfires. The ECU controls various engine functions, including fuel injection, ignition timing, and air-fuel mixture. A faulty ECU can send incorrect signals, leading to a misfire.

• Symptoms of ECU Problems:

  • Rough idling
  • Loss of power
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Check engine light (CEL)
  • Multiple sensor errors

• Solution: Diagnose the ECU using a scan tool. If the ECU is faulty, it may need to be reprogrammed or replaced.

4. How to Diagnose a Misfire in Your Car

Diagnosing a misfire can be challenging, as many potential causes exist. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you pinpoint the problem:

4.1 Check the Check Engine Light (CEL)

The first step in diagnosing a misfire is to check the CEL. Use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) stored in the ECU. These codes can provide valuable clues about the cause of the misfire.

4.2 Read the Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

Once you’ve retrieved the DTCs, research their meaning. Common misfire codes include:

• P0300: Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
• P0301: Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected
• P0302: Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected
• P0303: Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected
• P0304: Cylinder 4 Misfire Detected
• (And so on, depending on the number of cylinders in your engine)

These codes can help you narrow down the possible causes of the misfire.

4.3 Inspect Spark Plugs

Visually inspect the spark plugs for wear, damage, or fouling. Look for signs of:

• Cracks in the porcelain insulator
• Worn or eroded electrodes
• Carbon buildup
• Oil fouling

Compare the condition of the spark plugs to a spark plug chart to determine if they need to be replaced.

4.4 Test Ignition Coils

Test the ignition coils using a multimeter or an oscilloscope. A multimeter can measure the resistance of the coil, while an oscilloscope can display the coil’s waveform. Compare the readings to the manufacturer’s specifications to determine if the coil is functioning correctly.

4.5 Check Fuel Injectors

Check the fuel injectors for proper operation. You can use a stethoscope to listen to the injectors as they pulse. A healthy injector will produce a distinct clicking sound. You can also perform a fuel injector balance test to measure the fuel flow from each injector.

4.6 Look for Vacuum Leaks

Inspect all vacuum hoses and connections for leaks. Use a vacuum gauge to measure the engine’s vacuum. A low or fluctuating vacuum reading can indicate a leak. You can also use a smoke machine to help locate hard-to-find leaks.

4.7 Perform a Compression Test

Perform a compression test to measure the compression in each cylinder. Remove all the spark plugs and insert a compression tester into each cylinder one at a time. Crank the engine several times and record the highest reading. Compare the readings to the manufacturer’s specifications.

4.8 Check the Oxygen Sensors

Test the oxygen sensors using a scan tool or a multimeter. Monitor the sensor’s voltage output as the engine runs. The voltage should fluctuate as the sensor responds to changes in the exhaust gas composition.

4.9 Inspect the Catalytic Converter

Inspect the catalytic converter for damage or blockage. A clogged catalytic converter can create backpressure, leading to a misfire. You can use a backpressure tester to measure the pressure in the exhaust system.

4.10 Check the MAF Sensor

Clean the MAF sensor using a MAF sensor cleaner. A dirty MAF sensor can provide incorrect readings to the ECU, leading to a misfire.

5. How to Fix a Misfire in Your Car

Once you’ve identified the cause of the misfire, you can take steps to fix it. Here are some common solutions:

5.1 Replace Faulty Spark Plugs

Replacing faulty spark plugs is a relatively simple and inexpensive repair. Consult your owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic for the correct spark plug type.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Gather the necessary tools: spark plug socket, ratchet, extension, torque wrench, and new spark plugs.
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
3. Remove the ignition coil from the spark plug you’re replacing.
4. Use the spark plug socket to loosen and remove the old spark plug.
5. Apply anti-seize compound to the threads of the new spark plug.
6. Install the new spark plug and torque it to the manufacturer’s specifications.
7. Reinstall the ignition coil.
8. Repeat for the remaining spark plugs.
9. Reconnect the negative battery cable.

5.2 Replace Defective Ignition Coils

Replacing a defective ignition coil is another common repair.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Gather the necessary tools: socket set, ratchet, extension, and new ignition coil.
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
3. Locate the faulty ignition coil.
4. Disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition coil.
5. Remove the mounting bolts or screws.
6. Remove the old ignition coil.
7. Install the new ignition coil.
8. Reconnect the electrical connector.
9. Reinstall the mounting bolts or screws.
10. Reconnect the negative battery cable.

5.3 Clean or Replace Fuel Injectors

Cleaning or replacing fuel injectors can improve engine performance and fuel economy.

Step-by-Step Guide (Cleaning):

1. Purchase a fuel injector cleaner additive.
2. Add the cleaner to your gas tank according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Drive the car as usual, allowing the cleaner to circulate through the fuel system.

Step-by-Step Guide (Replacing):

1. Gather the necessary tools: socket set, ratchet, extension, fuel line disconnect tool, and new fuel injectors.
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
3. Relieve the fuel pressure.
4. Disconnect the fuel lines from the fuel rail.
5. Remove the fuel rail.
6. Remove the old fuel injectors.
7. Install the new fuel injectors.
8. Reinstall the fuel rail.
9. Reconnect the fuel lines.
10. Reconnect the negative battery cable.

5.4 Repair Vacuum Leaks

Repairing vacuum leaks can improve engine performance and fuel economy.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Locate the vacuum leak.
2. Determine the cause of the leak (e.g., cracked hose, loose connection).
3. Replace any damaged hoses or components.
4. Tighten any loose connections.

5.5 Address Low Compression Issues

Addressing low compression issues can be a more complex repair, often requiring engine disassembly. Consult a professional mechanic for assistance.

5.6 Replace Faulty Oxygen Sensors

Replacing faulty oxygen sensors can improve engine performance and fuel economy.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Gather the necessary tools: socket set, ratchet, oxygen sensor socket, and new oxygen sensor.
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
3. Locate the faulty oxygen sensor.
4. Disconnect the electrical connector from the oxygen sensor.
5. Use the oxygen sensor socket to loosen and remove the old oxygen sensor.
6. Apply anti-seize compound to the threads of the new oxygen sensor.
7. Install the new oxygen sensor and torque it to the manufacturer’s specifications.
8. Reconnect the electrical connector.
9. Reconnect the negative battery cable.

5.7 Replace a Clogged Catalytic Converter

Replacing a clogged catalytic converter can restore engine performance.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Gather the necessary tools: socket set, ratchet, exhaust pipe cutter, and new catalytic converter.
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
3. Cut the exhaust pipe on either side of the catalytic converter.
4. Remove the old catalytic converter.
5. Install the new catalytic converter.
6. Clamp or weld the exhaust pipe sections together.
7. Reconnect the negative battery cable.

5.8 Clean or Replace the MAF Sensor

Cleaning or replacing the MAF sensor can improve engine performance and fuel economy.

Step-by-Step Guide (Cleaning):

1. Gather the necessary tools: MAF sensor cleaner.
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
3. Locate the MAF sensor.
4. Disconnect the electrical connector from the MAF sensor.
5. Remove the MAF sensor from the air intake.
6. Spray the MAF sensor cleaner onto the sensor element.
7. Allow the cleaner to dry completely.
8. Reinstall the MAF sensor.
9. Reconnect the electrical connector.
10. Reconnect the negative battery cable.

Step-by-Step Guide (Replacing):

1. Gather the necessary tools: screwdriver, new MAF sensor.
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
3. Locate the MAF sensor.
4. Disconnect the electrical connector from the MAF sensor.
5. Remove the MAF sensor from the air intake.
6. Install the new MAF sensor.
7. Reconnect the electrical connector.
8. Reconnect the negative battery cable.

5.9 Correct Timing Issues

Correcting timing issues may require adjusting the timing belt or chain, or replacing faulty crankshaft or camshaft position sensors. Consult a professional mechanic for assistance.

5.10 Address ECU Problems

Addressing ECU problems may require reprogramming or replacing the ECU. Consult a professional mechanic for assistance.

6. What Tools are Needed for Misfire Diagnosis and Repair?

Having the right tools can make diagnosing and repairing a misfire much easier. Here’s a list of essential tools:

6.1 OBD-II Scanner

An OBD-II scanner is essential for reading diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) stored in the ECU. These codes provide valuable clues about the cause of the misfire.

6.2 Multimeter

A multimeter can be used to test the resistance of ignition coils, the voltage output of oxygen sensors, and other electrical components.

6.3 Compression Tester

A compression tester is used to measure the compression in each cylinder. This can help identify low compression issues.

6.4 Vacuum Gauge

A vacuum gauge is used to measure the engine’s vacuum. This can help identify vacuum leaks.

6.5 Fuel Pressure Tester

A fuel pressure tester is used to measure the fuel pressure in the fuel system. This can help identify fuel delivery issues.

6.6 Spark Plug Socket

A spark plug socket is a specialized socket designed to remove and install spark plugs without damaging them.

6.7 Oxygen Sensor Socket

An oxygen sensor socket is a specialized socket designed to remove and install oxygen sensors without damaging them.

6.8 Socket Set

A socket set is essential for removing and installing various bolts and nuts on the engine.

6.9 Ratchet

A ratchet is used to turn sockets and tighten or loosen bolts and nuts.

6.10 Extension

An extension is used to extend the reach of sockets in tight spaces.

6.11 Torque Wrench

A torque wrench is used to tighten bolts and nuts to the manufacturer’s specified torque.

6.12 Fuel Line Disconnect Tool

A fuel line disconnect tool is used to disconnect fuel lines from the fuel rail.

6.13 MAF Sensor Cleaner

MAF sensor cleaner is a specialized cleaner designed to clean the MAF sensor without damaging it.

6.14 Smoke Machine

A smoke machine is used to locate vacuum leaks by injecting smoke into the intake system.

7. How to Prevent Misfires in Your Car

Preventing misfires is always better than having to fix them. Here are some tips to help you keep your engine running smoothly:

7.1 Follow a Regular Maintenance Schedule

Adhering to your car’s recommended maintenance schedule is crucial for preventing misfires. This includes:

• Replacing spark plugs at the recommended intervals
• Changing the air filter regularly
• Performing regular oil changes
• Inspecting and replacing vacuum hoses as needed
• Cleaning the fuel injectors periodically

7.2 Use High-Quality Fuel

Using high-quality fuel can help prevent misfires by ensuring proper combustion. Avoid using low-grade or contaminated fuel.

7.3 Avoid Short Trips

Short trips can cause condensation to build up in the engine, which can lead to corrosion and misfires. Try to take longer trips when possible to allow the engine to warm up fully.

7.4 Address Issues Promptly

If you notice any symptoms of a misfire, address the issue promptly. Ignoring a misfire can lead to more serious engine damage.

7.5 Keep Your Car Clean

Keeping your car clean, especially the engine bay, can help prevent misfires by reducing the buildup of dirt and debris.

8. What Are the Costs Associated with Fixing a Misfire?

The cost of fixing a misfire can vary depending on the cause and the extent of the damage. Here’s a general breakdown of the costs associated with common misfire repairs:

8.1 Spark Plug Replacement

Spark plug replacement is typically one of the least expensive misfire repairs. The cost can range from $50 to $200, depending on the type of spark plugs and the labor involved.

8.2 Ignition Coil Replacement

Ignition coil replacement can cost from $100 to $400 per coil, depending on the make and model of your car.

8.3 Fuel Injector Cleaning or Replacement

Fuel injector cleaning can cost from $50 to $200, while fuel injector replacement can cost from $200 to $800, depending on the number of injectors being replaced.

8.4 Vacuum Leak Repair

Vacuum leak repair can cost from $50 to $300, depending on the location and severity of the leak.

8.5 Compression Issues

Addressing compression issues can be a more expensive repair, often requiring engine disassembly. The cost can range from $500 to $5000 or more, depending on the extent of the damage.

8.6 Oxygen Sensor Replacement

Oxygen sensor replacement can cost from $100 to $300 per sensor.

8.7 Catalytic Converter Replacement

Catalytic converter replacement can cost from $500 to $2000, depending on the make and model of your car.

8.8 MAF Sensor Replacement

MAF sensor replacement can cost from $100 to $400.

8.9 Computer Issues

Computer issues can range widely in cost. From $200-$2000 depending on whether it needs to be reflashed, or replaced.

9. Misfire FAQs: Answers to Common Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about misfires:

9.1 Can I Drive with a Misfire?

It’s generally not recommended to drive with a misfire. Driving with a misfire can cause further damage to the engine and other components.

9.2 How Long Can I Drive with a Misfire?

The longer you drive with a misfire, the greater the risk of serious engine damage. It’s best to address the issue as soon as possible.

9.3 Will a Misfire Damage My Catalytic Converter?

Yes, a misfire can damage your catalytic converter by allowing unburnt fuel to enter the exhaust system.

9.4 Can a Misfire Cause My Car to Fail an Emissions Test?

Yes, a misfire can cause your car to fail an emissions test by increasing the levels of harmful pollutants in the exhaust.

9.5 What Does It Mean When the Check Engine Light Is Flashing?

A flashing check engine light indicates a more serious problem that requires immediate attention. In the case of a misfire, a flashing CEL typically indicates a severe misfire that can cause catalytic converter damage.

9.6 Can a Misfire Be Caused by Bad Gas?

Yes, a misfire can be caused by bad gas, especially if the fuel is contaminated or of low quality.

9.7 How Do I Know Which Cylinder Is Misfiring?

Use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) stored in the ECU. The codes will indicate which cylinder is misfiring.

9.8 Can a Misfire Cause Poor Gas Mileage?

Yes, a misfire can cause poor gas mileage by wasting unburnt fuel.

9.9 Can a Misfire Cause My Car to Shake?

Yes, a misfire can cause your car to shake, especially at idle.

9.10 Is Misfire Repair a DIY Job?

Some misfire repairs, such as replacing spark plugs or ignition coils, can be done as DIY projects. However, more complex repairs, such as addressing compression issues or replacing a catalytic converter, should be left to a professional mechanic.

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