What Causes Engine Shaking in Winter?
2 Answers
Winter engine shaking can be caused by: 1. Low temperatures; 2. Improper air-fuel mixture ratio; 3. Carbon buildup on valves and intake passages; 4. Malfunctioning coolant temperature sensor, etc. Solutions include: 1. Performing a four-wheel alignment and dynamic balancing; 2. Cleaning the fuel system; 3. Replacing spark plugs; 4. Checking oil pressure and replacing components if necessary, etc. 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. For example, an internal combustion engine typically converts chemical energy into mechanical energy. The term engine can refer to both the power-generating device and the entire machine including the power unit.
Having driven for twenty years, I've gained deep personal experience with winter engine shaking. The main issue is that during cold starts, the engine temperature is too low, causing uneven fuel mixture. If the spark plugs have carbon buildup or are worn out, ignition becomes unstable, leading to noticeable vehicle vibration. Last time my car shook severely at startup in -10°C weather, a mechanic found issues with the ignition coils—their efficiency drops in cold temperatures, making them more prone to failure. Additionally, engine oil thickens in winter, reducing lubrication effectiveness and increasing engine friction, which worsens the shaking. My advice: let the engine warm up for a minute or two after morning starts before driving. If shaking persists, check spark plugs and ignition systems—don't overlook the battery, as low voltage in cold weather creates starting difficulties that trigger chain reactions. Regular maintenance prevents problems: replace spark plugs and switch to low-viscosity oil before winter to minimize breakdown risks.
