If your engine is misfiring, it’s a warning sign you shouldn’t ignore. While your car may still start and run, continuing to drive with a misfiring engine can cause serious damage to the vehicle and even put your safety at risk.
So, how long can you drive with a misfiring engine? The short answer is: as little as possible. In this post, we’ll explain what an engine misfire is, what causes it, the risks of ignoring it, and how to know if it’s safe to drive—temporarily.
What Is an Engine Misfire?
An engine misfire occurs when one or more of the cylinders in your engine fail to ignite the air/fuel mixture at the right time. This can cause the engine to run rough, lose power, vibrate, or hesitate during acceleration.
Common Signs of a Misfiring Engine:
- Jerking or shaking, especially at idle
- Sluggish acceleration
- Check engine light flashing or steady
- Unusual engine sounds (popping, sputtering)
- Decreased fuel economy
Common Causes of Engine Misfire
- Worn Spark Plugs or Ignition Coils
These are among the most common and easy-to-fix causes. - Clogged Fuel Injectors
If a cylinder isn’t getting the right amount of fuel, it can misfire. - Vacuum Leaks
Air leaks in the intake manifold can cause an incorrect air/fuel ratio. - Faulty Sensors (e.g., MAF, O2 sensors)
These can throw off the engine’s fuel mixture and timing. - Low Compression
Caused by internal engine problems like a blown head gasket or worn piston rings. - Timing Issues
Incorrect timing can disrupt the firing sequence.
Is It Safe to Drive with a Misfiring Engine?
While your car might still be drivable with a misfire, doing so can cause serious damage to your engine and other components. A brief drive to a nearby mechanic may be acceptable in certain situations, but extended driving is not recommended.
Risks of Driving with a Misfiring Engine:
- Damage to the catalytic converter
Unburned fuel can overheat and destroy this costly component. - Increased emissions
A misfiring engine dumps raw fuel into the exhaust, harming the environment. - Worsening performance
Misfires reduce engine efficiency and power, making the car unreliable or dangerous. - Internal engine damage
Persistent misfires can cause damage to pistons, valves, and cylinder walls.
Warning: If your check engine light is flashing, it usually indicates a severe misfire that can immediately damage the catalytic converter. Do not drive the car—have it towed.
How Long Can You Drive with a Misfiring Engine?
Technically, the engine may run for tens or even hundreds of miles depending on the severity and cause of the misfire. However, the longer you drive, the greater the risk of expensive repairs.
Rough Guidelines:
- Minor misfire (e.g., dirty spark plug): You may drive a short distance (a few miles) to a repair shop.
- Moderate misfire: Limit driving as much as possible—damage may already be occurring.
- Severe misfire (flashing check engine light, rough idle, loss of power): Do not drive. Have the car towed to avoid further damage.
What to Do If Your Engine Is Misfiring
- Check the Check Engine Light (CEL)
Use an OBD2 scanner or visit a local auto parts store (many will scan for free). - Note the Symptoms
Are there vibrations, power loss, or strange noises? - Avoid Long Trips
Do not drive on highways or for extended periods until the issue is diagnosed. - Schedule a Repair ASAP
Even a simple fix like replacing spark plugs can restore performance and prevent damage.
Can a Misfire Go Away on Its Own?
Occasionally, a temporary misfire may happen due to bad fuel, moisture, or cold weather. However, consistent or repeating misfires are not normal and will not resolve themselves.
Ignoring a misfire in hopes that it goes away is risky and costly.
Cost of Ignoring an Engine Misfire
| Issue Ignored | Possible Repair Cost |
|---|---|
| Damaged spark plugs/coils | $100–$400 |
| Failed catalytic converter | $1,000–$2,500+ |
| Engine damage (pistons/valves) | $2,500–$5,000+ |
| Tow charges (if breakdown occurs) | $100–$200+ |
Early detection and repair can save you thousands of dollars in long-term damage.
Final Thoughts: How Long Can You Drive with a Misfire?
Driving with a misfiring engine is a gamble that can quickly turn expensive. While it might be possible to drive for a short time if the issue is minor, you should aim to diagnose and repair the problem immediately.
The best practice? If your check engine light is on or flashing and your car is running rough, don’t risk it. Drive only as far as necessary to reach a mechanic—or better yet, call a tow truck.
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