A method for detecting combustion misfires in internal combustion engines on the basis of an evaluation of the segment times is introduced wherein a shaft of the engine passes over predetermined angular segments. The method is characterized by variable segment lengths and/or segment positions relative to a reference point of the movement of the pistons of the engine. The position of the angle segments and/or the segment length, that is, the angular expansion of the angular segments, is dependent upon operating parameters of the engine.