Car Started Shaking and Engine Light Came On

What Does It Mean When Your Car Shakes and the Engine Light Comes On?

When your car starts shaking and the engine light comes on, it can be a scary experience. It’s natural to wonder what’s wrong with your car and how much it’s going to cost to fix it. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the possible causes of this problem and what you can do to fix it.

Possible Causes of Car Shaking and Engine Light

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

• Spark plugs: Worn or fouled spark plugs can cause your engine to misfire, which can lead to shaking and the engine light coming on.
• Ignition coils: Faulty ignition coils can also cause your engine to misfire, leading to the same symptoms.
• Fuel injectors: Clogged or dirty fuel injectors can prevent your engine from getting the fuel it needs, which can cause it to shake and the engine light to come on.
• Vacuum leaks: A vacuum leak can allow air to enter your engine, which can cause it to run lean and shake. This can also lead to the engine light coming on.
• Oxygen sensor: A faulty oxygen sensor can send incorrect signals to your engine’s computer, which can cause it to run rich or lean and shake. This can also lead to the engine light coming on.

What to Do If Your Car Shakes and the Engine Light Comes On

If your car starts shaking and the engine light comes on, the first thing you should do is pull over to a safe place and turn off the engine. Once you’re safe, you can try to identify the cause of the problem. If you’re not sure what’s causing the problem, you can take your car to a mechanic to have it diagnosed.

Once the cause of the problem has been identified, you can start to fix it. In some cases, you may be able to fix the problem yourself. For example, if your spark plugs are worn or fouled, you can replace them yourself. However, if the problem is more serious, you may need to take your car to a mechanic to have it fixed.

How to Prevent Car Shaking and Engine Light Problems

There are a number of things you can do to prevent car shaking and engine light problems. Some of the most important things to do include:

• Get regular maintenance: Regular maintenance can help to keep your car running smoothly and prevent problems from developing. This includes things like changing your oil, rotating your tires, and having your brakes checked.
• Use high-quality parts: When you need to replace parts on your car, use high-quality parts. This will help to ensure that your car runs smoothly and lasts for a long time.
• Drive carefully: Avoid driving over rough roads and potholes, as this can damage your car’s suspension and other components. Also, avoid driving too fast, as this can put stress on your car’s engine and other components.

Conclusion

If your car starts shaking and the engine light comes on, it’s important to take action to fix the problem. By following the tips in this article, you can help to prevent car shaking and engine light problems and keep your car running smoothly for years to come.