Is Engine Shaking Related to Gasoline?
3 Answers
Engine shaking is related to gasoline. Using gasoline with a lower octane rating can cause knocking, which leads to engine shaking. The engine is the device that provides power to the car, converting the thermal energy of gasoline and diesel into mechanical energy by burning and expanding gases in a sealed cylinder to push the piston and perform work. Its components 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. Methods for engine maintenance include: 1. Using qualified engine oil; 2. Using qualified coolant and antifreeze; 3. Regularly cleaning the radiator scale; 4. Regularly removing engine carbon deposits; 5. Regularly replacing the car's three filters; 6. Maintaining a reasonable engine speed.
I previously experienced engine shaking while driving, which was indeed related to gasoline. That time, I filled up with cheap, low-quality gasoline, and the engine started shaking violently and making strange noises. If the gasoline is impure or contains water, the combustion becomes uneven, causing an imbalance in cylinder forces, which makes you feel the car shaking. However, it's not entirely the gasoline's fault—it could also be due to aging spark plugs, excessive carbon buildup, or clogged intake valves. These factors should all be considered. If you suspect the gasoline is the issue, try switching to 95 or 98 octane high-quality gasoline from a reputable gas station. Usually, the shaking will ease after driving a few kilometers. But it's best not to delay, as prolonged shaking can damage the engine. Trying to save money might end up costing more in repairs. I learned this the hard way—even after changing the gasoline, the problem persisted, and a technician later found it was due to a faulty sensor.
As a car enthusiast, I often deal with engine vibrations when modifying cars, and gasoline is definitely a key factor. For example, if you use low-octane fuel like 90-grade, incomplete combustion under high engine load can cause irregular knocking and vibrations, affecting driving feel—especially noticeable during startup. But don’t rush to tinker blindly. I’d advise checking the condition of the spark plugs or ignition coils first, as damage to these parts can cause similar issues. Try switching fuels—upgrading from poor-quality fuel to a reputable high-quality brand might smooth things out. Always choose reliable fuel brands; don’t cut corners to save money, as small issues can snowball into major problems and hurt overall performance.