What Causes the Engine Malfunction Light to Illuminate and the Car to Shake?
2 Answers
Here are the reasons why the engine malfunction light is on and the car shakes: 1. Dirty air filter: The air filter is designed to protect the engine and reduce wear. Simply replace the air filter. 2. Broken high-voltage wire: A broken high-voltage wire refers to a break in the wire core, which can affect ignition and cause engine shaking. 3. Low idle speed: The engine idle speed is preset in the computer. When the speed drops below a certain range, the car's computer will automatically adjust it. 4. Abnormal water temperature: The engine operating temperature has a normal range. If the water temperature is too high, it can cause early ignition timing, changes in the air-fuel mixture ratio, thinning of the engine oil viscosity, and reduced lubrication performance. 5. Clogged fuel injector: The fuel injector in an electronically controlled fuel injection vehicle is a key component for fuel injection and has a long lifespan, potentially reaching hundreds of thousands of kilometers. However, gum deposits in gasoline can clog the injector nozzles, leading to inconsistent fuel injection among injectors. This causes uneven cylinder operation and results in engine shaking.
Last time I was driving, the engine light suddenly came on, and the car was shaking violently, feeling like sailing on a massage chair—very uncomfortable. I asked a mechanic friend, and he said it might be due to uneven combustion caused by issues with the ignition coil or spark plugs, leading to cylinder misfires. Other possible causes include clogged fuel injection systems, faulty oxygen sensors, or carbon buildup on the intake valves. These problems can all degrade engine performance and cause fuel consumption to skyrocket. Driving under these conditions is not only strenuous but also poses safety hazards, such as bumpy loss of control. I suggest slowing down immediately and pulling over—don’t force it. The simplest step is to pop the hood and check for unusual smells or oil leaks, but it’s best to visit a repair shop and use diagnostic tools to read the trouble codes. Addressing it promptly saves money and ensures safety.
