ATV Backfiring: Common Causes & How To Fix It

It is always vexatious when you hear some strange sound from the engine. I recently rode ATV and heard a gunshot sound coming out of my ATV. This time, I realized that the issue seemed to be from the engine, and after much research, I concluded that my ATV was backfiring.

What Is A Backfire?

Backfire is a sudden sound from the engine when you ride your vehicle. This usually is a Loud bang sound that comes while the engine is running or at the time of its shut down.

These backfires usually occur when there is a malfunction in your engine’s intake and outtake fuel. Sometimes, the engine gets shut down due to failing, and you must restart the vehicle.

Again, if this problem happens repeatedly, the quad needs to be shown to professionals for help.

Why Do ATVs Backfire?

ATV Backfiring generally refers to a sudden loud sound coming out of your engine when you start or ride the vehicle.

ATVs are no different than other cars. These sounds might arise due to various reasons. When the engine is running too fast or too lean, these sounds tend to be heard.

This also means that, at times, your vehicle’s engine is getting more fuel than required for the air. It is taking in or vice versa. Backfiring is due to the malfunction of the emission system in your ATVs.

An explosion happens inside the combustion chamber when fuel is ignited by heat inside and when there is incomplete combustion and there is no explosion.

The engine has an interruption. It causes a backfire, resulting in a loud sound. At times, flames are also seen coming out of the exhaust pipe.

ATV backfires when unburnt fuel is ignited post the ignition sequence. The backfire is because of jetting issues where either the jetting is too lean or too costly. Rarely, it can also happen due to exhaust leaks.

When does ATV Backfire?

• ATV sputters and usually backfires when the below events happen:
• ATV backfires when trying to start the engine.
• ATV backfires when reviving the engine.
• ATV backfiring happens through Carburettor
• ATV backfiring on acceleration is also very common.
• ATV backfires on deceleration.

How to diagnose the ATV backfire?

Any loud explosion or POP coming out from the engine would mean your ATV has a backfiring issue. Similarly, if you can see flames coming out from the exhaust, you would say you have a serious backfire issue.

What are the causes of ATVs Backfire?

• Below are prevalent causes in which ATVs backfire.
• Reducing the speed very fast.
• Adjustment of Carburettor, which is set too lean.
• Unusual engine temperatures.
• Some types of gasoline have more mixture of alcohol.
• The spark plug is fouled: Over the period, your quads spark plug will corrode, preventing fuel from entering the combustion engine and creating a backfire.
• Clogged air filter: At times, if the air filter is clogged, the fuel will not be able to enter the combustion chamber, resulting in backfires.
• Any hole present in the exhaust.

How do I stop ATV backfires?

You can always avoid ATV fails if the quads are adequately maintained. With the below steps in practice, there will be less chance of quad backfiring.

•  It would be best if you reduced the engine speed slowly and not rapidly.
• The carburetor has to adjust at an optimum level.
• You need to select the right fuel, which has less alcohol.
• Regularly clean the spark plugs.
• Regularly cleaning air filters can always keep your quad out of backfiring issues.
• You need to adjust the throttler speed of the ATV.
• Lastly, if backfires of quads exist for a more extended period, you need to show it to the proper mechanic or professional.

How do you fix a backfire on an engine?

Over the period, if your quads have a backfiring issue, it is generally excellent, and you can always apply the above preventive measures to stop the backfiring.

If the backfiring occurs due to the exhaust, the muffler and the entire exhaust system will likely be damaged.

Similarly, if the backfire issue is frequently seen, then this might cause engine damage.

All in all, backfiring will never harm you or the rider.

Hence, it is always advisable to ensure your spark plug or carburetor is clean, and the quads undergo the right maintenance over the period.