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For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Chevrolet 🢒 1998 🢒 Malibu 🢒 Engine 🢒 Engine Controls - 2.4L 🢒 Backfire

Backfire

Checks

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Definition: Fuel ignites in the intake manifold, or in the exhaust system, making loud popping noise.

Preliminary Checks
    • Refer to Symptoms .
    • Search for service bulletins.

Fuel System
    • Check for low fuel pressure. Refer to Fuel System Diagnosis .
    • Check the fuel injectors. Refer to Fuel Injector Balance Test .
    • Check for contaminated fuel. Refer to Alcohol/Contaminants-in-Fuel Diagnosis .
    • Ensure each fuel injector harness is connected to the correct injector/cylinder. Refer to Engine Controls Schematics Fuel Controls.

Ignition System
    • Check for proper ignition voltage output with the J 36012-A spark plug jumper wires and J 26792 spark tester or equivalent.
    • Check the spark plugs for the following conditions:
       - Check for wet or fuel fouled spark plugs.
       - Check for cracks on the spark plugs.
       - Check for wear.
       - Check for improper spark plug gap.
       - Check for burned electrodes or heavy deposits. Refer to Spark Plug Visual Diagnosis in Engine Electrical.
    • If the spark plugs are fuel or oil fouled, the cause of the fouling must be determined before replacing the spark plugs.
    • Check the Ignition Control Module (ICM) for proper ground connection.
    • Check the ignition coils for cracks or carbon tracking. Refer to Electronic Ignition (EI) System Diagnosis .

Engine Mechanical
    • Check the engine for the following mechanical conditions:
       - Correct compression Refer to Engine Compression Test .
       - Sticking or leaking valves.
       - Worn camshaft(s) lobe(s).
       - Valve timing.
       - Broken valve springs.
       - Excessive oil in combustion chamber-Leaking valve seals.
       - Low cylinder compression.
    • For incorrect basic engine parts. Inspect the following:
       - Camshafts
       - Cylinder head
       - Pistons, etc.
    • Refer to Engine Mechanical.

Additional Checks
    • Check Intake and exhaust manifold(s) for casting flash. Refer to Engine Mechanical .
    • Check the exhaust system for possible restriction. Check the following:
       - Inspect exhaust system for damaged or collapsed pipes.
       - Inspect mufflers for heat distress or possible internal failure.
       - For possible plugged Three-Way catalytic converter. Refer to Restricted Exhaust System Check .