What are the causes of engine shaking during driving?
3 Answers
The causes of engine shaking during driving are: 1. Severe engine carbon deposits; 2. Ignition system problems; 3. Unstable oil pressure; 4. Aging engine components. The function of the engine is: to convert the heat energy of gasoline or diesel into mechanical energy by burning and expanding the gas in a sealed cylinder to push the piston to do work. The maintenance methods for the engine are: 1. Regularly change the oil and filter; 2. Use lubricating oil of appropriate quality grade; 3. Regularly clean the radiator; 4. Regularly clean the air filter, oil filter, and fuel filter; 5. Maintain good ventilation in the crankcase and clean it regularly; 6. Regularly clean the fuel system.
As an experienced driver, I've encountered engine shaking while driving. Common causes include ignition system failures, such as worn spark plugs or faulty ignition coils, leading to poor performance in a particular cylinder. Excessive carbon buildup on spark plugs can affect ignition efficiency, causing noticeable shaking during acceleration. The fuel system is also critical; clogged fuel injectors can disrupt the air-fuel mixture ratio, or unstable fuel pump pressure can cause uneven power output, making the car shake noticeably even at idle, like at red lights. On the air intake side, a dirty throttle body or minor leaks in the intake manifold can disrupt oxygen supply, causing significant engine load variations and resulting in shaking. Mechanical factors shouldn't be overlooked either, such as worn engine mounts transmitting more vibrations to the cabin or worn piston rings reducing cylinder compression. For safety, don't ignore shaking—pull over and perform a quick check of ignition components, then seek professional diagnosis to avoid major repairs later, as it affects handling stability and increases accident risks.
I've experienced engine shaking several times while commuting to work. Mostly, it's because the spark plugs reached the end of their lifespan and weren't replaced in time, causing misfires and uncoordinated cylinder operation, resulting in wobbling during acceleration. Or it could be due to clogged fuel injectors from impurities, leading to uneven fuel spray and a lean air-fuel mixture. A dirty air filter is also a common issue, causing unstable power due to restricted airflow. Sometimes, it's caused by aged or loose engine mounts with poor shock absorption. Checking it yourself is quite simple: first, inspect the spark plugs—clean or replace them if there's heavy carbon buildup, as it's cheap and quick. If that doesn't work, try using a fuel additive to clean the fuel system. Never force the car to keep running if the shaking gets severe—turn on the hazard lights and pull over safely. Regular maintenance can prevent this, saving you from costly repairs.
