Why does the car shake at high speed?
3 Answers
There are several main reasons why a car shakes at high speed: 1. Excessive carbon deposits: Severe carbon buildup in the engine cylinders can lead to clogged spark plugs and valves, directly causing the car to shake when idling. 2. Fuel supply system malfunction: Unstable fuel pressure can easily cause fluctuations in the mixture concentration, not only resulting in shaking but also leading to unstable idling. Consider replacing the fuel filter first. 3. Misfire or cylinder failure: The issue may lie with the engine ignition coil or spark plugs. If the ignition coil malfunctions or the spark plugs fail to fire for some reason, the car will exhibit shaking.
I've dealt with the issue of car shaking at high speeds many times. The most common cause is tire imbalance, especially when your speed exceeds 80 km/h, where minor imbalances get amplified and the steering starts to wobble. Wheel rim deformation is another factor—for instance, after accidentally hitting a curb or pothole, the rim can bend. Problems with the tires themselves, like uneven wear or bulges, can also cause shaking. Digging deeper, it might be aging suspension components, such as control arms or leaking shock absorbers, which exacerbate the bumpiness. I recommend first checking if the tire pressure is normal, then visiting a professional shop for a dynamic balance test—it's not expensive but can prevent accidents. Never ignore high-speed shaking; it affects braking distance and handling, and prolonged neglect may damage chassis components, increasing repair costs. Regular maintenance and careful driving are key to prevention.
I often tinker with cars and have encountered high-speed shaking several times. Start with the simple things: Unbalanced tires can cause severe steering wheel vibration at high speeds, mainly due to improper wheel balancing. Wheel rim deformation is common after hitting potholes, causing minor vibrations or even serious damage. Cracks or bulges in tires can also have an impact. In the suspension system, aging shock absorbers can worsen bumps. Unqualified aftermarket parts can make vibrations more noticeable. I've tested it myself—accelerating or braking at high speeds can help diagnose the issue, such as warped brake discs worsening vibration during braking. I recommend checking tire wear and pressure monthly and visiting a repair shop for balancing and rim checks if shaking occurs. Safety first—high-speed shaking can easily lead to loss of control, so don't risk DIY fixes. Maintain smooth driving habits and avoid potholes to prevent issues.
