Why Your Car Might Be Shaking
When your car starts shaking, it can be a terrifying experience, especially if you’re driving at high speeds. The shaking can be accompanied by a variety of other symptoms, including vibrations, rattling, and even a loud clunking noise. To make matters worse, the check engine light may also come on, indicating that there’s a problem with your vehicle’s engine or emissions system. In this article, we’ll explore five common reasons why your car might be shaking when the check engine light is on.
Reason 1: Faulty Oxygen Sensor
A faulty oxygen sensor is a common cause of a shaking car when the check engine light is on. The oxygen sensor is responsible for monitoring the amount of oxygen in your car’s exhaust system and sending this information to the engine control unit (ECU). If the sensor becomes faulty, it can cause the engine to run rich or lean, leading to a shaking or vibrating sensation.
🚨 Note: A faulty oxygen sensor can also cause your car to fail an emissions test.
Reason 2: Loose or Faulty Spark Plug
Spark plugs play a crucial role in your car’s engine, igniting the fuel-air mixture that powers your vehicle. If a spark plug becomes loose or faulty, it can cause the engine to misfire, leading to a shaking or vibrating sensation. When the check engine light is on, it’s likely that the ECU has detected a misfire and is alerting you to the problem.
Symptoms of a Loose or Faulty Spark Plug:
- Shaking or vibrating engine
- Engine misfire
- Reduced engine performance
- Check engine light on
Reason 3: Bad Fuel Injector
Fuel injectors are responsible for delivering fuel to the engine’s cylinders. If a fuel injector becomes clogged or dirty, it can cause the engine to run unevenly, leading to a shaking or vibrating sensation. When the check engine light is on, it’s likely that the ECU has detected a problem with the fuel injector and is alerting you to the issue.
💡 Note: Regular fuel injector cleaning can help prevent clogs and keep your engine running smoothly.
Reason 4: Worn or Loose Belt
Your car’s serpentine belt (or individual belts) play a crucial role in powering various engine components, including the alternator, water pump, and power steering pump. If the belt becomes worn or loose, it can cause the engine to shake or vibrate. When the check engine light is on, it’s likely that the ECU has detected a problem with the belt and is alerting you to the issue.
Symptoms of a Worn or Loose Belt:
- Shaking or vibrating engine
- Squealing or grinding noise
- Reduced engine performance
- Check engine light on
Reason 5: Faulty Engine Mount
Engine mounts are responsible for securing the engine to the chassis and helping to absorb vibrations. If an engine mount becomes faulty, it can cause the engine to shake or vibrate excessively. When the check engine light is on, it’s likely that the ECU has detected a problem with the engine mount and is alerting you to the issue.
🚧 Note: Faulty engine mounts can also cause other problems, including reduced engine performance and increased wear on other engine components.
When your car is shaking and the check engine light is on, it’s essential to address the problem as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your engine and other components. By understanding the five common reasons outlined above, you can take the first step towards diagnosing and repairing the issue.
What should I do if my car is shaking and the check engine light is on?
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If your car is shaking and the check engine light is on, it’s essential to address the problem as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your engine and other components. You should consult a mechanic or repair manual to diagnose the issue and perform any necessary repairs.
Can a faulty oxygen sensor cause my car to shake?
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Yes, a faulty oxygen sensor can cause your car to shake. The oxygen sensor is responsible for monitoring the amount of oxygen in your car’s exhaust system and sending this information to the engine control unit (ECU). If the sensor becomes faulty, it can cause the engine to run rich or lean, leading to a shaking or vibrating sensation.
How often should I replace my spark plugs?
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Spark plugs should be replaced every 30,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the type of spark plugs and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Regular spark plug replacement can help prevent engine misfires and other problems.
