Engine Light Flashing and Car Shaking: Causes and Solutions

Introduction

When your engine light flashes and your car starts shaking, it’s a sign that something is seriously wrong. It’s important to pull over to a safe location and turn off the engine as soon as possible. Continuing to drive could cause further damage to your car.

Causes of Engine Light Flashing and Car Shaking

There are many possible causes of engine light flashing and car shaking. Some of the most common include:

Misfiring

Misfiring occurs when one or more of your spark plugs is not firing properly. This can cause your engine to run rough and shake. It can also lead to decreased power and fuel economy.

Vacuum leak

A vacuum leak can occur when there is a hole or crack in one of the vacuum hoses that connect to your engine. This can cause your engine to run lean, which can lead to misfiring, shaking, and decreased power.

Fuel injector problem

A fuel injector problem can occur when one or more of your fuel injectors is not working properly. This can cause your engine to run rich or lean, which can lead to misfiring, shaking, and decreased power.

Ignition coil problem

An ignition coil problem can occur when one or more of your ignition coils is not working properly. This can cause your engine to misfire, shake, and lose power.

Catalytic converter problem

A catalytic converter problem can occur when your catalytic converter is clogged or damaged. This can cause your engine to run poorly and shake. It can also lead to decreased power and fuel economy.

Solutions for Engine Light Flashing and Car Shaking

The best way to fix engine light flashing and car shaking is to take your car to a 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:

Checking your spark plugs

If your spark plugs are worn or damaged, they can cause misfiring. You can check your spark plugs yourself by removing them from your engine and inspecting them. If they are worn or damaged, you will need to replace them.

Checking for vacuum leaks

You can check for vacuum leaks by listening for a hissing sound under your hood. If you hear a hissing sound, it is likely that you have a vacuum leak. You can fix a vacuum leak by replacing the leaking hose.

Cleaning your fuel injectors

You can clean your fuel injectors yourself by using a fuel injector cleaner. You can find fuel injector cleaner at most auto parts stores.

Replacing your ignition coils

If your ignition coils are not working properly, you will need to replace them. You can replace your ignition coils yourself, but it is important to follow the instructions carefully.

Replacing your catalytic converter

If your catalytic converter is clogged or damaged, you will need to replace it. You can replace your catalytic converter yourself, but it is important to follow the instructions carefully.

Conclusion

Engine light flashing and car shaking can be a serious problem. It is important to pull over to a safe location and turn off the engine as soon as possible. Continuing to drive could cause further damage to your car. The best way to fix engine light flashing and car shaking is to take your car to a mechanic. They will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.