What is the difference between engine backfire and afterfire?

[Kathy]

Engine backfire and afterfire are different in that: backfire occurs in the intake system, while afterfire occurs in the exhaust system. The causes of engine backfire include: 1. Slow combustion of the air-fuel mixture; 2. Incorrect ignition sequence; 3. Low battery voltage; 4. Faulty coolant temperature sensor or air flow meter; 5. Excessive ignition advance angle; 6. Incorrect valve timing; 7. Excessive carbon buildup on valves; 8. Incorrect ignition sequence; 9. Faulty spark plugs. The components of an engine include: 1. Valve train; 2. Crankshaft and connecting rod mechanism; 3. Ignition system; 4. Cooling system; 5. Lubrication system; 6. Starting system; 7. Fuel supply system.