What Causes Engine Idle Shaking and Weak Acceleration?

[AubreeMarie]

Reasons for engine idle shaking and weak acceleration: 1. Carbon buildup in the engine; 2. Driving in congested areas; 3. Poor fuel quality. Solutions: 1. Regularly clean carbon deposits; 2. Try to avoid driving in congested areas; 3. Use higher-quality fuel. An engine is a machine that converts other forms of energy into mechanical energy, including internal combustion engines, external combustion engines, jet engines, electric motors, etc. An engine is a complete set of power output equipment, including transmission gears, the engine itself, and the drive shaft. The engine is just a part of the entire powertrain but is the core component of the entire engine system.

[DeAriana]

My car just had a similar issue - it was shaking like crazy at idle and had no power when accelerating. At first, I thought it was bad fuel, but there are actually many common causes. For example, worn spark plugs causing unstable ignition, clogged fuel filters leading to insufficient fuel supply, carbon buildup in the throttle body, or a faulty mass airflow sensor affecting air intake. Sensor issues are also common - like when an oxygen sensor gives wrong feedback, making the ECU give incorrect commands and messing up fuel injection. Loose engine mounts can worsen the shaking, while an aging fuel pump causes weak acceleration. After I replaced the spark plugs and cleaned the throttle body, it got much better. But for severe cases, you might need to check the electrical system or ECU faults. Whenever you notice unstable idling during daily driving, get it checked promptly - safety first. Don't wait until you're stranded on the road to regret it.

[SanRicardo]

After driving for so many years, I've encountered countless instances of engine idle shaking and lack of power during acceleration. In the end, most of the time it's an issue with the ignition system—either the spark plugs or ignition coils are faulty, causing weak or no spark. The fuel system also can't be ignored; clogged fuel injectors or insufficient fuel pump pressure can reduce power output. A dirty intake or malfunctioning sensors like the throttle position sensor can cause the computer to miscalculate the air-fuel mixture. An air filter that hasn't been replaced for too long can also drag performance down. I remember one time when the spark plugs were blackened and needed replacement, but fuel system issues often cause sluggish acceleration. Regular maintenance is key—check ignition and fuel components every 10,000 kilometers to prevent small problems from turning into major repairs. If the car feels off while driving, pull over and turn off the engine—don't push it.

[CourtneyLynn]

My car shakes badly at idle and feels sluggish when accelerating. The reasons in simple terms: old spark plugs with poor ignition, insufficient fuel supply from the fuel pump, and a clogged air filter restricting airflow. Faulty sensors like the oxygen sensor can also trick the computer into controlling the fuel amount incorrectly. From personal experience, first check the spark plugs and air filter—replacing them often improves the situation. If that doesn’t work, inspect the fuel system or engine mounts. Timely repairs are crucial; otherwise, fuel consumption increases and the engine gets damaged.

[StIan]

Last time my car had issues, the idle was shaking badly and pressing the accelerator had no response, almost making me late. Analyzing it, engine shaking is often due to ignition system failure, like worn spark plugs or aging coils; lack of acceleration power is usually a fuel supply issue, such as clogged fuel injectors or a failing fuel pump. Carbon buildup in the throttle body affects air intake balance, and sensor failures like a faulty oxygen sensor can cause the air-fuel mixture to be too rich or too lean. These are especially common in older cars, so regular cleaning and replacing wear-prone parts are effective. Delaying repairs might lead to engine seizure, so I insist on quarterly minor maintenance to prevent issues. If problems arise, quickly seek professional diagnosis at a shop—don't cut corners by tinkering yourself.