What Causes Severe Engine Vibration in Cars?
2 Answers
Severe engine vibration in cars can be caused by: 1. Engine misfire: One or more cylinders not functioning properly, resulting in intermittent exhaust flow with noticeable tailpipe shaking, sometimes accompanied by abnormal noises; 2. Deteriorated or loose engine mounts: These components are designed to reduce vibration and absorb shocks during engine operation while securing the engine; 3. Carbon buildup issues: Including cylinder carbon deposits, throttle valve carbon, spark plug fouling, and intake system carbon accumulation. Excessive carbon deposits affect ignition energy, air intake efficiency, and air-fuel mixture ratio, leading to unstable power output; 4. Fuel system malfunction: Using incompatible fuel grades that reduce engine power output.
Having driven for decades, I frequently encounter engine vibration issues. The most common cause is problems with the ignition system, such as worn spark plugs or damaged ignition coils, leading to misfires in a cylinder and causing severe engine shaking. Carbon buildup on fuel injectors or the throttle body can also trigger intense vibrations, especially during cold starts, making the car feel like it's falling apart. If not repaired promptly, fuel consumption will increase, noise levels rise, and other engine components may get damaged. I recommend first checking if the spark plugs need replacement and cleaning carbon deposits from the throttle body. Regular maintenance can effectively prevent these issues. If vibrations worsen during highway driving, it might indicate a faulty mass airflow sensor or oxygen sensor, but these require diagnostic tools for confirmation. It's best to take the car to a professional repair shop without delay.
