What Causes Car Shaking at Low Speeds?
1 Answers
It is normal for a vehicle to have slight shaking at low speeds, which can be improved by partially depressing the clutch. However, if the shaking is severe, it is advisable to check the ignition and fuel systems or clean the intake system. Below is a detailed analysis of the specific causes of car shaking: 1. Dirty Throttle Body or Excessive Carbon Buildup in Fuel Injectors: After driving a certain distance, a dirty throttle body can cause it to not close properly or result in a stuck idle stepper motor, both of which can lead to high engine idle. Carbon buildup generated during engine operation can also cause vehicle shaking, especially when starting the car. The engine may shake more violently than usual, and in some cases, it may not start on the first attempt. Therefore, when a vehicle shakes, the throttle body and fuel injectors should be checked first. If the throttle body is dirty or there is excessive carbon buildup in the fuel injectors, they should be cleaned promptly. 2. Worn Engine Mounts: Car shaking can sometimes be related to aging engine mounts. Engine mounts act as the shock absorption system for the engine, absorbing minor vibrations during operation. If the engine mounts are faulty, these vibrations can transfer to the steering wheel and the cabin, causing shaking at idle. The car engine is most prone to shaking when the electrical system is turned on while idling. 3. Increased Engine Load Due to Electrical System Activation, Leading to Idle Drop: To compensate for the shaking caused by idle drop, the engine automatically increases the RPM slightly. Thus, when the car's electrical system is turned on, especially when starting the air conditioning in summer, the engine often shakes. If the shaking at idle does not decrease when the air conditioning compressor is running, it is likely due to worn engine mounts, which should be replaced promptly. Uneven tire balancing is another cause of shaking. 4. Tire Balancing: When tire balancing is uneven, the steering wheel tends to shake. If uneven balancing is detected, lead weights should be added inside the wheel rims to balance the weight distribution between the tires. Both standard steel rims and lightweight aluminum rims can deform or crack under certain external forces. Deformed rims, uneven rim balancing, or incorrect rim angles can all cause shaking while driving.
