Why does the car shake like it's convulsing?
3 Answers
The reasons why a car shakes like it's convulsing are as follows: 1. Severe carbon buildup in the engine, causing uneven fuel-air mixture and resulting in shaking. 2. Unstable fuel supply pressure leading to shaking. 3. Malfunction in the ignition system. 4. Damaged engine mounts. Engine mounts are responsible for absorbing minor vibrations during operation; if they fail, severe shaking occurs. Solutions are as follows: 1. Check the engine mounts for aging or cracking issues. If found, replacing them can resolve the problem. 2. If the steering wheel shakes during highway driving, it may be due to poor tire balance. In this case, perform dynamic balancing on the two front wheels. 3. If the steering wheel shakes when braking at high speeds, replace the front brake pads or discs. 4. If the car body shakes during acceleration, inspect the driveshaft for issues or check the fuel filter and spark plugs. Replace them if necessary.
I've encountered this situation before - when a car shakes like it's convulsing, it usually stems from engine issues. The most common cause is ignition system failure, such as worn spark plugs or carbon buildup blockage, leading to unstable ignition and engine misfiring. It could also be fuel system problems, like dirty fuel injectors or insufficient fuel pump pressure causing uneven fuel delivery. Additionally, a dirty throttle body or improper air-fuel ratio can cause idle shaking. High-speed vibrations might be caused by unbalanced tires or worn suspension components, with wheel bearing damage being the most noticeable. Excessive vibration affects steering wheel and body stability, especially on highways, increasing the risk of losing control. From experience, I've learned to first check spark plugs and air filters. If the problem persists, professional diagnosis or fuel system cleaning is needed. Regular maintenance can prevent these issues - don't wait until the shaking becomes severe, as it may damage internal engine components, making repairs more expensive.
As someone who often repairs cars myself, I believe that car shaking like a twitch is mostly due to suspension or drivetrain issues. Unbalanced tires are the most direct cause—uneven tire pressure or uneven wear can cause shaking at specific speeds. Faulty wheel bearings can also produce similar vibrations, especially noticeable when turning. Additionally, aging engine mounts that lose their cushioning effect can transmit engine vibrations throughout the vehicle. Unbalanced driveshafts or clutch slippage are common in manual transmission cars. I recommend checking for wheel hub play and performing a tire balance test. Failed suspension shock absorbers can increase bouncing sensations, affecting comfort and safety. A simple diagnosis: shake the wheels while parked and listen for unusual noises. Timely action is crucial, as high-speed driving may otherwise lead to loss of control and increased accident risks. Pay attention to unusual chassis noises and changes in vibration frequency during regular use.
