Why Does the Engine Shake in Winter?

[DiMaddox]

Engine shaking in winter is mainly due to the engine's water temperature being too low. Here are some precautions for starting the engine in winter: 1. To allow the engine to reach its ideal operating temperature as quickly as possible, the fuel supply system will automatically enrich the air-fuel mixture, causing the engine to run more intensely, resulting in unstable operation and significant idle shaking. Therefore, vehicles should be warmed up before driving in winter. 2. Warming up is the first step when driving in winter. Due to the low temperatures, the lubricating oil is much thicker than in other seasons and does not flow easily. After starting the engine, let it idle at around 1000 RPM to warm up before moving off. Avoid pressing the accelerator pedal sharply or letting the engine speed get too high during this time. 3. When starting the engine in winter, cold air-fuel mixtures require more ignition energy to ignite and start. The cold weather also reduces the battery's performance. Additionally, older vehicles may have carbon deposits in the intake manifold, which can absorb some gasoline during fuel injection. Compared to other seasons, driving in winter carries relatively higher risks. If minor issues are not addressed promptly, they can easily escalate into major problems, posing more hazards to normal driving.

[ElenaFitz]

Winter engine shaking may be due to the engine oil being too viscous during cold starts, resulting in poor lubrication and increased internal friction, similar to how people can easily cramp when running without warming up. Battery performance declines in low temperatures, and the ignition system may not be strong enough—old or moisture-fouled spark plugs can fail to ignite. Carbon buildup can also be an issue, such as clogged intake valves preventing proper airflow and leading to incomplete combustion. The fuel injection system might even freeze, causing uneven fuel distribution. A simple solution is to switch to lower-viscosity oil and let the engine warm up for a few minutes before driving to avoid stalling. Regular maintenance ensures peace of mind.

[McSabrina]

Engine shaking in winter is common during cold starts. The reduced fluidity of engine oil increases friction resistance, while a weakened battery leads to insufficient ignition voltage. Spark plug carbon buildup or moisture can also affect ignition. Additionally, a clogged air filter or a sticking idle control valve may cause unstable air intake. Regularly inspect these components, switch to winter-grade engine oil, and use a high-performance battery. If the shaking persists, seek professional diagnosis to avoid long-term engine damage or increased fuel consumption. The issue may improve as the weather warms up, but don't ignore minor problems.

[MacManuel]

Winter engine shaking mainly stems from insufficient lubrication caused by low temperatures, where thick engine oil hinders movement; weak battery and faulty ignition coils; problematic spark plugs failing to generate sparks; or uneven fuel distribution due to a frozen fuel injection system. This can lead to increased fuel consumption and unstable driving, making prompt inspection and replacement of faulty parts crucial.