Audis are beautiful cars that have a broad appeal. Drivers love these vehicles for their innovative design and cutting-edge technology. Audis are reliable while being fun to drive. However, they still experience issues. One issue that you may encounter with your Audi is a misfiring engine.
What is an engine misfire?
An engine misfire happens when there is incomplete combustion inside an engine cylinder. An improper air-to-fuel ratio or a failing component can lead to a misfire. A misfire can result in a loud popping noise or you may experience hesitation or shaking.
Common Symptoms of a Misfiring Engine
If your Audi’s engine is misfiring, you may experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- smell of gas
- jerking occurs during acceleration
- check engine light is triggered
- engine sound is different
- shaking or vibrations
- engine stalling
- slow acceleration
- engine stumbles
- loud popping noise
- rough idle
Familiar Causes of an Engine Misfire
There are several reasons you may be experiencing an engine misfire in your Audi. Listed are the most common causes of an engine misfire:
- Bad Gasoline: You may not give much thought to the gas you put in your tank, but it could be bad or contaminated. Bad gas can lead to engine misfires. Always fill up your Audi’s gas tank at a reliable gas station.
- Clogged Fuel Filter: The fuel filter in your Audi needs to be replaced. Check your service manual to see when it is recommended. Over time, the filter will get dirty and clog. When the fuel cannot get through it, there will be low fuel pressure. This will lead to an improper air to fuel ratio.
- Issues with the Fuel System: When the cylinder does not get enough fuel, an oxygen-heavy misfire can happen. The symptoms are often more obvious when idling or driving at low speeds.
- Bad Spark Plug: The spark plug is responsible for igniting the air and fuel. The explosion provides power to the engine. If there is no explosion, more air and fuel are still delivered. Now there is too much air and fuel. When the spark occurs, it will create an engine misfire.
Spark plugs need to be replaced per your Audi’s recommended guidelines. This issue can be avoided by replacing the spark plugs and wires before they get old and fail.
- Faulty Ignition Coil: Each spark plug has its own ignition coil. When there is a faulty coil it will not be able to produce the voltage the spark plug needs. A faulty coil can damage the spark plug and wires.
- Transmission Issue: The misfire may not be coming from your engine. It could be due to a transmission issue. When this happens, you will probably be experiencing a jerking motion when you drive.
- Bad Intake Manifold Gasket: A bad intake manifold gasket can lead to a vacuum leak. When there is a leak, there will be an improper air-to-fuel ratio. Along with misfires, you may also experience stalling, a decrease in power, and poor fuel economy.
- Faulty Engine Control Module: The engine control module is also known as the ECM. The function of the ECM is to collect performance data. When the module fails, you will probably suffer from several problems.
- Mechanical Issues: Misfires combined with thumping noises are often due to mechanical issues. Your Audi could have a vacuum leak, slipped chain or timing belt.
Driving Your Audi with a Misfiring Engine
We do not recommend driving your Audi when you are experiencing misfires. Doing so can lead to even more damage. You may also lose power and have an accident.
H&A Service and Sales is Here to Help
We understand that maintaining your Audi is not fun or convenient. We strive to provide the best service possible while making it as easy and stress-free as possible. Our expert mechanics will work with you to get your Audi fixed and back on the road.
When you come to H&A Service and Sales, you will receive honest and reliable work at a reasonable price. Do not waste your hard-earned money paying dealership prices. If your Audi is experiencing misfires, give us a call instead. We are conveniently located to drivers in Cobb County, Kennesaw, and Woodstock, Marietta, GA.