What Causes Sudden Engine Shaking During Ignition?
2 Answers
Reasons for sudden engine shaking during ignition: 1. Misfire in individual cylinders: The main issue lies in malfunctioning or damaged ignition coils causing single or multiple cylinder misfires, particularly noticeable during ignition; 2. Excessive engine carbon buildup: When carbon deposits accumulate to a certain level in the engine, detonation occurs, leading to abnormal engine shaking; 3. Blocked intake/exhaust system: If the engine's breathing is obstructed; 4. Damaged engine mounts: When engine mounts are damaged, not only does the engine lose vibration damping, but severe shaking also occurs during ignition, especially noticeable during rapid acceleration or deceleration.
I recently encountered a similar issue where the car shakes violently when starting, feeling like the entire body is vibrating. This is usually due to problems with the ignition system. Worn or dirty spark plugs can cause unstable ignition; if the ignition coil is faulty, the spark may be too weak, preventing the engine from starting properly. Excessive carbon buildup can also cause this, especially if you frequently drive short distances in the city, as it can clog the fuel system and affect combustion efficiency. The fuel system should also be checked—clogged fuel injectors or insufficient fuel pump pressure can lead to poor gasoline supply. Additionally, a dirty air filter can starve the engine of air, causing unstable idling. It's advisable to visit a repair shop promptly to avoid breaking down on the road. They can use a diagnostic tool to read fault codes and perform targeted repairs. Regular maintenance, such as replacing spark plugs and cleaning the throttle body, can effectively prevent these issues.