Car Shaking When Idle Check Engine Light

What It Means

When your car shakes when idle and the check engine light is on, it means that there is a problem with the engine. The shaking is caused by the engine misfiring, which means that it is not burning fuel properly. The check engine light is a warning that there is a problem with the engine and that you need to have it checked out as soon as possible.

What Causes It

There are many different things that can cause a car to shake when idle and the check engine light to come on. Some of the most common causes include:

* **Spark plugs:** Spark plugs are responsible for igniting the fuel in the engine. If they are worn out or damaged, they can cause the engine to misfire.
* **Ignition coils:** Ignition coils are responsible for providing the spark plugs with the electricity they need to ignite the fuel. If they are faulty, they can cause the engine to misfire.
* **Fuel injectors:** Fuel injectors are responsible for spraying fuel into the engine. If they are clogged or damaged, they can cause the engine to misfire.
* **Vacuum leaks:** Vacuum leaks can cause the engine to run lean, which means that it is not getting enough fuel. This can cause the engine to misfire.
* **Exhaust system problems:** Exhaust system problems can cause the engine to run rich, which means that it is getting too much fuel. This can also cause the engine to misfire.

How to Fix It

The best way to fix a car that is shaking when idle and has the check engine light on is to have it diagnosed by a qualified mechanic. The mechanic will be able to determine the cause of the problem and recommend the best course of action.

Some of the most common repairs for a car that is shaking when idle and has the check engine light on include:

* **Replacing the spark plugs:** Replacing the spark plugs is a relatively simple and inexpensive repair. It can often be done in less than an hour.
* **Replacing the ignition coils:** Replacing the ignition coils is a more complex and expensive repair. It can take several hours to complete.
* **Replacing the fuel injectors:** Replacing the fuel injectors is a complex and expensive repair. It can take several hours to complete.
* **Fixing vacuum leaks:** Fixing vacuum leaks is a relatively simple and inexpensive repair. It can often be done in less than an hour.
* **Fixing exhaust system problems:** Fixing exhaust system problems can be a complex and expensive repair. It can take several hours to complete.

How to Prevent It

The best way to prevent a car from shaking when idle and having the check engine light come on is to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. This includes getting regular oil changes, tune-ups, and brake inspections.

You should also avoid driving in harsh conditions, such as in extreme heat or cold. If you must drive in harsh conditions, be sure to take frequent breaks to allow the engine to cool down.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent your car from shaking when idle and having the check engine light come on.