Why Does the Car Shake When Driving?
3 Answers
Analysis of car shaking while driving: 1. Shaking during startup: Shaking during startup is caused by insufficient fuel combustion, leading to inadequate power. 2. Idle shaking: Idle shaking results from severe engine carbon deposits, ignition system issues, or unstable oil pressure. 3. High-speed shaking: High-speed shaking is due to excessively high or low tire pressure, abnormal tire wear, rim deformation, shock absorber failure, or tire dynamic imbalance. 4. Engine mount aging: The engine mount, which serves as the engine's shock absorption system, absorbs minor vibrations during operation. If the engine mount fails, these vibrations can transfer to the steering wheel and the cabin, causing the car to shake.
My old car shakes when driving, and there are quite a few reasons for this. Last time on the highway, the entire body was wobbling, and it turned out to be caused by unbalanced tires. Uneven tire wear, inconsistent tire pressure, or rim deformation can all lead to shaking. In terms of the engine, if the spark plugs are carbon-fouled or the ignition coils are aging, you might feel the car shake at low speeds or when starting. Additionally, warped brake rotors can cause the steering wheel to vibrate violently when braking. Problems in the drivetrain, such as a damaged half-shaft, can also increase the risk of shaking when turning. If these issues aren’t fixed promptly, not only will driving be uncomfortable, but it can also accelerate wear on other components and increase safety risks. It’s recommended to start by checking tire pressure and wheel balance, and if possible, perform regular dynamic balancing and wheel alignment.
I've experienced the issue of car shaking several times myself. The most common cause is tire-related problems, such as excessively high or low tire pressure, or unbalanced wheels, which becomes more noticeable at high speeds. Engine carbon buildup or fuel system blockages can also lead to unstable idling, making the car vibrate when stopped at traffic lights. Aging suspension components, like worn-out shock absorbers, can increase body jolting. In terms of braking, uneven brake discs can transmit vibrations to the steering wheel during hard braking. These issues should not be overlooked, as they can make long-distance driving particularly uncomfortable and may even lead to engine malfunctions or increased fuel consumption. A simple solution is to check tire pressure monthly and promptly visit a professional shop for diagnosis if any problems arise.
