What does it mean when an engine is described as "missing"?

When an engine is described as "missing," it typically indicates that one or more cylinders are not firing correctly, leading to a rough engine operation. This condition is often referred to as a "cylinder miss" or "misfire." This situation can arise due to several factors, such as a faulty spark plug, an issue with the ignition system, fuel delivery problems, or compression loss within the cylinder. When any of these issues occur, the result is that the engine does not run smoothly, leading to symptoms like reduced power, rough idling, and possible backfiring.

Understanding that the core issue is related to the functionality of the cylinders helps to diagnose and address the problem effectively, ensuring optimal performance of the engine.