What Causes the Vibration When Turning on the AC in an 8th Generation Accord?
2 Answers
Vibration when turning on the AC in a car is generally caused by carbon buildup on the spark plugs, carbon buildup on the throttle body, or a deformed fan or loose screws. Below is a detailed explanation of the reasons for vibration when turning on the AC: 1. Carbon buildup on spark plugs: After a period of use, carbon deposits will accumulate on the spark plugs. If not cleaned in time, this can reduce the engine's torque output, leading to vibration when the AC is turned on. Soak the spark plugs in a container with white vinegar for 2-3 hours (or 4-5 hours for severe cases), then use a stiff brush to remove the carbon deposits. Clean them with gasoline and let them air dry naturally. 2. Carbon buildup on the throttle body: When the AC is turned on, the engine load suddenly increases, and the throttle opening expands. At this point, the issue of dirt is magnified. If the throttle is stuck or fails to open to the proper position, the air intake is restricted, reducing engine power and eventually causing engine vibration. 3. Deformed fan or loose screws: Check if the vibration is due to resonance caused by a deformed fan when the AC is turned on or if it's caused by loose screws securing the fan.
Driving my eighth-generation Accord, I feel the car body shaking as soon as I turn on the AC. Let me explain this clearly. The root cause of the shaking is mostly the increased load on the engine. When the AC starts, the compressor draws power, and if the engine mounts are aged or loose, noticeable vibrations occur. Additionally, worn spark plugs or issues with the ignition coil can cause unstable ignition, disrupting the combustion process. Coupled with accumulated oil deposits in the idle control valve or throttle body, the engine is more prone to shaking when the AC load changes. Regular maintenance is essential, such as checking mount bolts and cleaning the intake system periodically. Ignoring persistent shaking can lead to faster engine wear and even compromise driving safety. I recommend first visiting a repair shop to scan for trouble codes with a diagnostic tool to pinpoint the exact issue before fixing it—this saves both money and hassle. After all, the AC system isn’t standalone, and improper handling can affect the overall driving experience.