What Causes Engine Shaking in a Sedan?
3 Answers
Faults in the car's ignition system, aging or loosening of engine mounts, and carbon buildup issues. Below is an introduction to engines: Introduction: An engine is a machine capable of converting non-mechanical energy into mechanical energy. Classification: Includes internal combustion engines (reciprocating piston engines), external combustion engines (Stirling engines, steam engines, etc.), jet engines, electric motors, etc. External combustion engines: External combustion engines refer to engines where fuel is burned outside the engine. Internal combustion engines: Internal combustion engines, or reciprocating piston engines, differ from external combustion engines primarily in that fuel is burned inside them. There is a wide variety of internal combustion engines, with common gasoline and diesel engines being typical examples.
Last month, my own car also encountered a shaking issue, which was really frustrating. The most common causes of engine shaking include ignition system problems, such as aging spark plugs or faulty coils, leading to inaccurate cylinder ignition. Next is fuel system failure; clogged fuel injectors or insufficient fuel pump pressure can cause unstable combustion. Additionally, intake system leaks or throttle body carbon buildup can affect the air-fuel mixture. Mechanically, damaged engine mounts can make vibrations more noticeable. When checking, start with the simple things like inspecting spark plugs or replacing the air filter. If the shaking persists, it's best to take it to a professional shop to avoid safety risks. In my case, replacing the spark plugs solved the problem—saving both money and hassle.
With over thirty years of driving experience, I've seen countless cases of engine vibration. The primary cause is ignition issues—faulty spark plugs or ignition coils can lead to single-cylinder misfires. Next is fuel system problems, such as clogged filters or malfunctioning injectors. Air system leaks or sensor failures, like a damaged oxygen sensor, can also cause the ECU to miscalculate the air-fuel ratio. Engine aging, including cylinder wear or loose piston rings, can worsen vibrations. During diagnosis, first test the ignition coil voltage. If that doesn't resolve it, check fuel pressure and intake vacuum. Regular oil changes and carbon deposit cleaning are recommended to prevent worsening vibrations.
