What Causes the Engine Malfunction Light to Flash and the Car to Shake While Driving?
2 Answers
Reasons for the engine malfunction light flashing and the car shaking while driving: 1. Ignition system failure, such as issues with spark plugs, high-voltage wires, or ignition coils, can lead to poor ignition system performance, triggering the engine malfunction light and causing the vehicle to shake; 2. Overly rich air-fuel mixture in the cylinders can result in symptoms like knocking and shaking; 3. Abnormal fuel supply pressure, often due to a malfunctioning fuel pump, can also cause the car to shake; 4. Faulty idle control valve or its control circuit. If the engine malfunction light flashes and the car shakes, it is recommended to stop immediately for safety and avoid further driving. At this point, you should contact a 4S shop or a professional auto repair shop for assistance, either by calling for a tow truck or waiting for rescue.
I remember clearly when the warning light flashed and the car shook while driving. Once on the highway, it suddenly happened, and it scared me so much that my palms were sweating. Thinking carefully, it was probably an issue with the ignition system—like old, burnt-out spark plugs or loose ignition coil connections causing uneven cylinder operation, making the car shake. It could also be an oil pressure problem, where clogged fuel injectors lead to uneven air-fuel mixture. If a sensor acts up, like a faulty oxygen sensor sending wrong signals to the computer, it can trigger the flashing light. You should pull over immediately, check the dashboard for other warnings, and avoid pushing the car further to prevent engine damage. That time, I towed it to the repair shop, and replacing the spark plugs fixed it. Don’t skimp on regular maintenance—periodic checks of ignition components can prevent such issues.
