Backfiring is the sudden combustion of unburned fuel in the exhaust system of an internal combustion engine. It is most commonly caused by one of the following:
* A rich fuel mixture
* A weak spark
* A faulty ignition timing
When these conditions are present, the fuel in the exhaust system can ignite and explode, creating a loud bang and a flash of flame.
Backfiring can be annoying and embarrassing, but it is generally not harmful to the engine. In fact, it can actually help to keep the exhaust system clean by burning off any deposits that may have built up.