Why does the car shake particularly when starting in winter?
3 Answers
There are several reasons why a car may shake during winter: 1. Low temperature: When the temperature is low, the exhaust pipe temperature also decreases. The oxygen sensor has a minimum operating temperature, so the vehicle's ECU cannot obtain accurate data, leading to errors in ignition and fuel-air mixture control. This results in reduced power output and shaking. If this is the case, there is no need to worry. After a cold start, wait 30 to 40 seconds for the vehicle to warm up, and the shaking will disappear. 2. Carbon buildup: Carbon deposits on the throttle body have a certain adhesion. For example, if the intended fuel injection is 100 units, carbon buildup may reduce it to 90 units, resulting in insufficient fuel for combustion and causing shaking. If the shaking is due to carbon buildup, cleaning the throttle body and fuel injectors usually solves the problem. New cars typically experience this issue after driving 30,000 to 40,000 kilometers under normal conditions. 3. Worn spark plugs: When spark plugs age, the ignition gaps vary, causing power discrepancies among cylinders and affecting performance, leading to shaking. Replacing the spark plugs resolves this issue. Most household cars use nickel-alloy spark plugs, which generally need replacement after 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers of normal driving. For platinum spark plugs, replacement is recommended after 40,000 to 50,000 kilometers.
I've been driving trucks in the north for several years, and every winter morning when starting the vehicle, I feel the engine shakes violently. Mainly because the engine oil temperature is too low, making it too thick, leading to inadequate lubrication. The engine pistons experience increased friction and don't operate smoothly. In cold weather, the spark plugs' ignition capability declines, causing uneven operation across cylinders. Additionally, the battery's power output drops in low temperatures, resulting in insufficient starting power and more noticeable shaking. I encountered this issue last year and found that the air filter was slightly clogged—it's prone to frost blockage in winter. I recommend switching to winter-grade engine oil and warming up the engine for several seconds before driving to allow oil circulation. If shaking persists frequently, a full inspection of spark plugs and wiring at a repair shop is necessary. Long-term neglect can accelerate part wear, leading to higher repair costs. These problems lessen in warmer weather, so pre-winter maintenance is crucial. I always schedule service appointments in advance.
As a new driver last winter, my car shook violently when starting for the first time in cold weather. I panicked, thinking the car was broken. Later, a car-savvy friend explained that the battery's capacity decreases in cold temperatures, causing unstable voltage that makes the starter motor struggle, and the spark plugs fail to ignite properly, leading to shaking. Additionally, the fuel system's gasoline flows slower in low temperatures, and poor fuel injection worsens the issue. I bought a battery tester and found the old one needed replacement—after handling it, the car ran much smoother. Parking indoors or in a heated garage can also help. New drivers should avoid stomping on the gas pedal immediately; wait for the engine to warm up. It's advisable to check the manual and regularly inspect if the tire pressure is appropriate. Keep the battery clean and terminals tight, and seek professional inspections when necessary to ensure safe driving.
