Is Slight Shaking Normal After an Oil Change?

[Stephanie]

If the engine did not exhibit slight shaking before the oil change but starts to shake slightly after the oil change, this situation is abnormal. Reasons for car shaking after an oil change: 1. Oil Fill Level: If too much oil is added, the excess oil can easily enter the combustion chamber and form gummy carbon deposits. While there may be no obvious effects initially, over time, the carbon deposits will become increasingly severe, leading not only to idle shaking but also potentially clogging the catalytic converter, causing excessive exhaust emissions. In severe cases, it may even result in oil burning. 2. Oil Viscosity and Quality: It is crucial to choose oil that matches the vehicle model. If oil with excessively high viscosity is selected, it will inevitably affect the oil's flowability, which can cause engine shaking during idle. Additionally, the quality of the oil must be carefully considered. Low-quality oils often lack reliable quality assurance, which can not only lead to idle shaking but also directly impact the vehicle's overall performance.

[LucasDella]

After my last oil change, the car had a slight shake, which made me feel uneasy. As a regular commuter who drives to work every day, I wondered if it was because the wrong type of oil was used or if the amount wasn't enough. Oil that's too thick or too thin can put extra strain on the engine, causing minor vibrations. Also, if the filter isn't installed properly or air gets into the system, it can lead to this kind of shaking. I've had similar issues before, so I quickly checked the dipstick and found the oil level was indeed low. After adding half a liter, the car ran smoothly again. I'd suggest first checking your oil level and type before rushing to switch brands—some oils need a break-in period and may improve after driving a few dozen kilometers. However, if the shaking persists, it's best to visit a repair shop. There might be minor issues with the engine internals or ignition system, and addressing them early can prevent major repairs.

[LaPresley]

Veteran drivers with over 20 years of experience know that slight shaking after an oil change isn’t uncommon, but it’s definitely not normal. It’s most likely due to issues during the oil refill—like too much or too little oil, or using the wrong viscosity that doesn’t match the manufacturer’s recommendation. I’ve seen many newbies face this after getting an oil change at a shop, possibly because the technician was careless—maybe the filter is clogged or the drain bolt wasn’t tightened properly. An unstable engine shake is annoying, and don’t brush it off as a minor issue. Prolonged neglect can wear out piston rings or increase fuel consumption. The easiest fix is to check the dipstick yourself—if the oil level is correct, the shaking should stop. If it persists, take the maintenance receipt back to the shop for a recheck and have the mechanic run diagnostics on sensor data. Remember, being meticulous with maintenance saves a lot on repair costs down the road.

[BrandonMarie]

I feel the car is shaking a bit after the oil change, so we need to find the cause from the details. It could be due to the conflict between the new oil and old residue, and the engine needs a few kilometers to break in, especially when switching to a different viscosity. Air bubbles mixing in are also common, causing more noticeable shaking at idle. I recommend driving on the highway for a while to see if it stabilizes—if it improves, then it's not a major issue. Alternatively, check the spark plugs and ignition coils, as they are indirectly related to the oil system, and aging can worsen the shaking. If the problem persists, it's best to stop driving to prevent engine damage.