Why is my car shaking and check engine light on?

1. Spark plugs and ignition coils

Spark plugs are responsible for igniting the fuel in your car’s engine. When they get worn out or damaged, they can cause your engine to misfire, which can lead to shaking and a check engine light. Ignition coils are responsible for providing the electrical current to the spark plugs. If an ignition coil fails, it can also cause a misfire.

2. Fuel injectors

Fuel injectors are responsible for spraying fuel into the engine. When they get clogged or dirty, they can cause the engine to run lean or rich, which can lead to shaking and a check engine light.

3. Mass air flow sensor

The mass air flow sensor (MAF) measures the amount of air flowing into the engine. This information is used by the engine computer to calculate the correct amount of fuel to inject. If the MAF fails, the engine computer may not be able to calculate the correct amount of fuel, which can lead to shaking and a check engine light.

4. Oxygen sensors

Oxygen sensors measure the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gases. This information is used by the engine computer to adjust the air-fuel mixture. If an oxygen sensor fails, the engine computer may not be able to adjust the air-fuel mixture correctly, which can lead to shaking and a check engine light.

5. Catalytic converter

The catalytic converter is responsible for cleaning up the exhaust gases. If the catalytic converter fails, it can cause the engine to run poorly, which can lead to shaking and a check engine light.

6. Transmission problems

Transmission problems can also cause your car to shake. If the transmission is slipping or shuddering, it can cause the car to vibrate. Transmission problems can also lead to a check engine light.

7. Driveshaft problems

Driveshaft problems can also cause your car to shake. If the driveshaft is bent or damaged, it can cause the car to vibrate. Driveshaft problems can also lead to a check engine light.

8. Wheel alignment problems

Wheel alignment problems can also cause your car to shake. If the wheels are not aligned properly, it can cause the car to pull to one side or the other. This can lead to uneven tire wear, which can also cause the car to shake. Wheel alignment problems can also lead to a check engine light.

9. Tire problems

Tire problems can also cause your car to shake. If the tires are worn out or damaged, they can cause the car to vibrate. Tire problems can also lead to a check engine light.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms described above, it is important to have your car inspected by a qualified mechanic. The mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate repairs.