How does the PCM work to diagnose a misfire?

This greatly helps the Powertrain Control Module (PCM–car computer) calculate crankshaft acceleration time. The PCM can detect when a cylinder decelerates (an indication of a misfire), store a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) in memory, and turn on the Check Engine Light.

What should I do if I misfire my catalytic converter?

If this happens, the raw fuel will gradually destroy the converter; hence the need to fix the problem as soon as possible. On most modern vehicles, the Check Engine Light (CEL) or Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) will begin to flash if a misfire threatens to damage your catalytic converter. I. How to Save Diagnostic Time With a Scan Tool

What happens when an engine cylinder misfires?

An engine cylinder misfires when it is unable to efficiently burn the air/fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. This problem leads to all kinds of engine performance issues: The engine jerks and loses power, and fuel consumption and emissions go up.

Why does my car hesitate when I step on the accelerator?

Instead of going faster by stepping on the accelerator pedal, the speed will be reduced. The vehicle may even stumble entirely during these seconds. This is what it means when the car engine hesitates. It is usually the result of a problem with the air and fuel mixture within the combustion chamber.

What happens when the exhaust gas recirculation valve fails?

The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve allows a certain amount of exhaust gases into the intake manifold to help lower engine temperature and harmful emissions. When the valve fails, it may get stuck close or open, or even leak. It is when the valve remains open when engine idle suffers.

How to troubleshoot a clogged exhaust system?

Any pressure greater than three pounds indicates a clogged exhaust system. If you do not have an A.I.R. pump system the 9/16” nuts can be loosened at the exhaust flange to allow the pipes to drop down. Then road test the vehicle. A vacuum gauge is useful for carburetor adjustment also.

What causes the exhaust to pop on a motorcycle?

So many things it could be, a lot depends on what model motorcycle. Too lean, as mentioned, is generally the cause. A vacuum leak is not uncommon. Plugged slow jets not uncommon (and that can cause other major problems. If the bike never did it, sat a long time and started popping, that’s more of a possibility).

Can a 2.2L engine misfire at idle?

Above idle, at faster engine RPM, there is no time for the cylinder to leak, so no engine misfire. The repair for this particular engine misfire is to replace the cylinder head and bad valves. This aluminum head is not repairable, so replacement is required. Again, this problem is specific to the 2005 through 2009 2.2L and 2.4L.

Are there any problems with the GM 2.2L engine?

We have been seeing quite a few problems with the GM 2.2L and 2.4L engines. Mostly on model years 2005 through 2009. This engine is very common in the Chevrolet Malibu, Cobalt and HHR. As well as the Pontiac G5 and G6. This is the 4 cylinder. The problem I am going to talk about today is a check engine light and misfire codes.

How is cylinder balance used to diagnose misfires?

Over the years, this test has helped me solve tons of hard to find misfires on pre-OBD II and OBD II vehicles. The idea behind a cylinder balance test is to ‘short out’ an engine cylinder to see if the cylinder is ‘dead’ or not (at idle).

What is the code for an engine misfire?

But this particular problem is with a computer trouble code P0300. This is a general engine misfire. For a particular cylinder, the code would be P0301, P0302, P0303 or P0304, as the last number refers to which cylinder is misfiring. On a scan tool we can actually watch the cylinder misfire.