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Car Shaking and Engine Light On: Causes and Solutions
Causes of Car Shaking and Engine Light On
There are a number of potential causes for a car to shake and have the engine light on. Some of the most common include:
- Misfiring engine: A misfiring engine can cause the car to shake and vibrate, as well as illuminate the engine light. This can be caused by a number of factors, such as faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors.
- Vacuum leak: A vacuum leak can also cause the car to shake and have the engine light on. This can be caused by a hole or tear in the intake manifold, vacuum hoses, or other components.
- Faulty oxygen sensor: A faulty oxygen sensor can cause the engine to run rich or lean, which can lead to shaking and the engine light being illuminated.
- Transmission problems: Transmission problems, such as a slipping clutch or a faulty torque converter, can also cause the car to shake and have the engine light on.
Solutions for Car Shaking and Engine Light On
The best way to fix a car that is shaking and has the engine light on is to take it to a qualified mechanic. They will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.
However, there are some things you can do yourself to try and fix the problem. These include:
- Check the spark plugs: If the spark plugs are worn or fouled, they can cause the engine to misfire. Replace the spark plugs if they are worn or fouled.
- Check the ignition coils: The ignition coils are responsible for delivering the spark to the spark plugs. If the ignition coils are faulty, they can cause the engine to misfire. Replace the ignition coils if they are faulty.
- Check the fuel injectors: The fuel injectors are responsible for delivering the fuel to the engine. If the fuel injectors are clogged or faulty, they can cause the engine to misfire. Clean or replace the fuel injectors if they are clogged or faulty.
- Check for vacuum leaks: Vacuum leaks can cause the engine to run lean, which can lead to shaking. Inspect the intake manifold, vacuum hoses, and other components for any holes or tears. Repair any leaks that you find.
- Check the oxygen sensor: The oxygen sensor is responsible for monitoring the oxygen content in the exhaust. If the oxygen sensor is faulty, it can cause the engine to run rich or lean, which can lead to shaking. Replace the oxygen sensor if it is faulty.
If you have tried all of the above and the car is still shaking and has the engine light on, it is best to take it to a qualified mechanic. They will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.