Why does the car shake when starting in first gear?
3 Answers
The reasons why the car shakes when starting in first gear: the temperature is too low, and the car has been parked for a long time. Temperature is too low: Mainly because the temperature is too low, the lubricating oil is in a semi-solidified state and cannot fully perform its lubrication function, so the resistance during the starting process is greater than that at normal temperatures, thus causing the shaking phenomenon. The car has been parked for a long time: The engine oil inside the engine flows back to the oil pan at the lower part of the engine. Therefore, when starting the engine after it has not been used for a long time (such as overnight), the upper part of the engine is actually in a state without oil and lacks lubrication. It takes about 30 seconds after starting for the oil pump to operate and deliver oil to the parts of the engine that need lubrication the most, such as the pistons, connecting rods, and crankshaft.
It's really annoying to experience that jerky feeling when starting the car in first gear. I've been driving for over a decade and encountered this issue several times. The most common cause is clutch wear – after prolonged use, it starts slipping, leading to uneven engagement that makes the car dance around. Another reason is poor driving habits – beginners often press the accelerator too hard or release the clutch too quickly, easily causing jerking. Engine instability is also key – dirty spark plugs or ignition system issues can be culprits. I remember driving an old car once where the shaking was so severe it nearly stalled; inspection revealed a broken clutch disc. Safety-wise, this deserves attention – severe shaking can lead to loss of control, especially during rainy weather or hill starts. Don't force it; get to a repair shop early. Regular clutch system maintenance like fluid changes can prevent many headaches. Overall, improving driving technique while adapting to vehicle condition usually solves it.
My car repair experience tells me that shaking when starting in first gear is mostly due to clutch or transmission issues. When the clutch isn't fully depressed or is severely worn, the engagement position shifts, causing vibrations. Insufficient or deteriorated transmission fluid can also affect gear shifting smoothness. Additionally, unstable engine idling, such as from a clogged air filter or carbon buildup in fuel injectors, can lead to shaking. During inspection, first check if the clutch pedal rebounds normally, then test whether the engine speed is stable. If there are abnormal noises, consider problems with the driveshaft or tires. For maintenance, it's recommended that owners regularly change engine oil and transmission fluid, and simply observe components for signs of aging. Prevention is better than cure—keeping a daily driving log of issues and seeking detailed diagnosis from a professional shop is more reliable.
