What Causes the Shaking When Releasing the Accelerator?
2 Answers
The shaking when releasing the accelerator is caused by: mismatched engine and transmission, clutch issues, or gaps created by loose ball joints in the steering linkage. Precautions when pressing the accelerator include: 1. Press and release the accelerator pedal gently and smoothly; 2. Coordinate the release of the clutch with pressing the accelerator promptly and precisely; 3. Select the appropriate gear to keep the engine running mostly at medium speed and with a larger throttle opening to save fuel; 4. Before stopping or turning off the engine, release the accelerator pedal first and avoid revving the engine abruptly. The working principle of the accelerator is: pressing the accelerator pedal directly controls the throttle, increasing the throttle opening, which allows more air into the engine. The ECU then commands the fuel injection system to inject more fuel, increasing the engine's RPM and accelerating the vehicle.
I've been driving for 20 years and repaired countless vehicles. Shaking when releasing the throttle is mostly caused by unstable engine idling. Common reasons include old spark plugs failing to ignite, clogged air filters restricting airflow, carbon buildup on the throttle body affecting air circulation, and dirty fuel injectors causing uneven fuel spray—these minor issues make the engine RPM fluctuate when the throttle is released. Loose engine mounts are also a major culprit; when the rubber deteriorates, engine vibrations directly transfer to the car body. Dirty transmission fluid or torque converter issues can cause drivetrain vibrations when decelerating. Early inspection can prevent bigger problems. I recommend car owners check spark plugs and air filters monthly and clean the throttle body regularly to prevent shaking and save fuel. Ignoring these issues can lead to long-term engine damage, increasing repair costs, disrupting travel plans, and raising accident risks. If shaking occurs while driving, it's best to pull over safely and visit a professional repair shop.
