What Causes Severe Engine Vibration in Cars?
2 Answers
Severe engine vibration in cars can be caused by: 1. Dirty throttle body or excessive carbon buildup in fuel injectors; 2. Ignition system issues; 3. Engine misfire; 4. Worn or loose engine mounts; 5. Fuel system malfunctions. The automobile engine is the power-generating device that determines a vehicle's power performance, fuel efficiency, stability, and environmental friendliness. The working principle of an automobile engine involves: burning fuel within the cylinders to generate kinetic energy, which drives the reciprocating motion of pistons inside the engine cylinders. This motion then drives the connecting rods attached to the pistons and the crankshaft connected to these rods, creating reciprocating circular motion around the crankshaft center to output power.
I find that severe engine vibration is quite common, and there could be several reasons behind it. First, worn or damaged spark plugs can cause uneven ignition, leading to a misfiring cylinder, which makes the engine shake like it's limping. Second, if the engine mounts are worn or broken, the damping effect is lost, making vibrations more noticeable when going over bumps or accelerating. Additionally, carbon buildup in the throttle body or fuel system issues like clogged fuel injectors can result in uneven air-fuel mixture, making the engine struggle to breathe. Poor maintenance, such as dirty engine oil or a clogged air filter, can also increase friction between components, leading to more vibration. If the vibration worsens at high RPMs, it might be due to issues with the drive belt or bearings. Not only is this uncomfortable to drive with, but it can also accelerate component wear. Early inspection can prevent major repairs. If you hear unusual noises or the shaking is particularly severe when idling at a red light, it's best to visit a repair shop for a thorough diagnosis. Safety first—don’t let small issues turn into big problems.
