Is It Normal for the Car to Shake When Revving in Neutral?
2 Answers
Revving the engine in neutral and experiencing shaking is not normal, and the reason is: there is an issue with the engine. The working principle of the throttle is: when the accelerator pedal is pressed, it directly controls the throttle valve, which opens wider, allowing more air to enter the engine. At this point, the ECU commands the fuel injection system to inject more fuel, causing the engine speed to increase and the vehicle to accelerate. Precautions when pressing the accelerator include: 1. Press and release the accelerator pedal gently, ensuring smooth and gradual movements; 2. Releasing the clutch must be closely coordinated with pressing the accelerator, with quick and precise actions; 3. Select an appropriate gear to ensure the engine operates mostly at medium RPM and with a larger throttle opening to save fuel; 4. Before the vehicle comes to a stop or shuts off, the accelerator pedal should be released first, and avoid suddenly revving the engine in neutral.
As a seasoned vehicle repair technician, I often encounter similar issues. It's actually quite normal for the car body to shake slightly when revving the engine in neutral. The reason is that engine vibrations increase with higher RPM, especially noticeable in older cars or high-displacement vehicles—just like how we can feel the engine moving when sitting inside. However, if the shaking is excessive, such as the entire steering wheel vibrating or unusual noises occurring, then something might be wrong. Possible causes include worn-out engine mount rubber, reducing vibration absorption, or ignition system failures leading to uneven cylinder pressure due to misfiring spark plugs. Prolonged operation under these conditions can accelerate part wear, such as mount fractures or engine instability. I recommend that owners first stay calm and inspect the engine mounts for cracks if possible. If equipped, check the ignition coils and spark plugs. If the issue is severe, don’t hesitate—take the car to a repair shop for a comprehensive diagnosis. Safety comes first.