What are the causes of severe engine shaking in cars?
3 Answers
Engine shaking can occur at high speeds, during idling, and in some vehicles, even jumping phenomena may occur. The following are the causes of engine shaking: 1. Aging or loosening of the engine mounts. 2. Severe carbon buildup in the engine. 3. Malfunction in the fuel system. 4. Issues with the intake system. 5. During cold starts, incomplete combustion of gasoline can cause engine shaking, which is normal and the shaking disappears after the engine warms up. The engine will shake during operation, but under normal circumstances, the shaking is relatively smooth and regular. If you can clearly feel increased or persistent engine shaking, it is necessary to conduct a repair check at this time.
Having driven for over a decade, I know there are quite a few reasons for severe engine vibration. First, consider the ignition system—worn-out spark plugs or faulty ignition coils can cause a cylinder to misfire, making the engine shake. Next is the fuel delivery system; clogged fuel injectors or a weak fuel pump can lead to uneven fuel supply, resulting in unstable combustion. A dirty air filter can also restrict airflow, making the engine 'gasp' for air. Worn engine mounts can cause vibrations felt even in the steering wheel. In my experience, spark plugs are often the culprit—replacing them usually does the trick. Don’t overlook sensor issues either; a faulty oxygen sensor, for example, can confuse the ECU. I recommend regular oil and filter changes, along with an annual full inspection to avoid breakdowns and erratic fuel consumption. If you notice vibrations while driving, shut off the engine immediately and check for warning lights—don’t let small issues escalate.
As a long-haul driver, I often find that severe engine vibration is mostly a common issue. If the spark plugs are burnt or the gap is too wide, the ignition can't keep up, causing the engine to shake. Problems in the fuel system, like clogged injectors with debris, lead to uneven fuel spray. A dirty air filter starves the engine of air, and a grimy throttle body affects the air intake. Sometimes, using low-quality gasoline results in incomplete combustion. I've found that minor fixes, like replacing spark plugs or the air filter myself, can solve the problem—saving both money and hassle. If the issue persists, it might be due to loose engine mounts or faulty sensors causing the computer to misjudge. If you experience vibration on the road, don't push it—pull over and check the dashboard for error codes. Regular oil changes during maintenance also help keep the engine running smoothly.