What Causes a Car to Shake and Stall?
2 Answers
The reasons for a car shaking and stalling are: 1. Throttle malfunction: such as a blocked throttle or carbon buildup in the throttle; 2. Excessive impurities in the intake tract, causing the onboard computer to be unable to precisely control the idle air intake; 3. Spark plug malfunction, such as electrode erosion or damage; 4. The use of low-quality gasoline leading to fuel pump blockage or insufficient combustion of the air-fuel mixture in the cylinder; 5. Issues with the fuel injector, such as carbon buildup or blockage. Solutions for a car shaking and stalling include: 1. Cleaning the fuel injector and refueling at reputable gas stations; 2. Cleaning the intake tract; 3. Cleaning the throttle.
My old car used to do the same thing—it would start shaking while running and then stall. The mechanic said the most common causes are worn-out spark plugs or too much carbon buildup. When spark plugs get old, they don't ignite properly, leading to poor combustion in the cylinders, which makes the car shake. Carbon deposits can clog the fuel injectors or throttle body, disrupting fuel supply and airflow. Fuel system issues are also a big problem, like a weak fuel pump or a clogged fuel filter, which can cause stalling due to insufficient fuel supply. Faulty sensors are equally critical—for example, a bad crankshaft position sensor can make the computer give wrong commands. A malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can also cause this. If this happens, get it checked immediately and avoid driving further to prevent engine damage.