Check Engine Light and Car Shaking

Introduction

When the check engine light illuminates on your dashboard and your car starts shaking, it can be a nerve-wracking experience. These symptoms can indicate a wide range of issues, some of which are more serious than others. In this post, we will explore the potential causes of this combination of symptoms and provide some guidance on what steps to take to address the problem.

Causes of Check Engine Light and Car Shaking

There are many possible causes of a check engine light and car shaking, including:

Spark plug problems: Worn or fouled spark plugs can cause misfires, which can lead to engine shaking and a check engine light.
Ignition coil problems: A faulty ignition coil can also cause misfires, leading to the same symptoms.
Fuel injector problems: Clogged or malfunctioning fuel injectors can prevent the engine from getting the proper amount of fuel, which can cause misfires and engine shaking.
Air intake problems: A blocked or restricted air intake can reduce the amount of air that enters the engine, which can lead to a loss of power and engine shaking.
Exhaust system problems: A clogged or damaged exhaust system can restrict the flow of exhaust gases, which can cause engine shaking and a check engine light.
Transmission problems: A malfunctioning transmission can cause the car to shake, especially when shifting gears.
Driveline problems: A worn or damaged driveshaft or differential can also cause car shaking.

What to Do If Your Check Engine Light Is On and Your Car Is Shaking

If you experience a check engine light and car shaking, it is important to take action as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your vehicle. Here are some steps to follow:

Pull over safely: If it is safe to do so, pull over to the side of the road and park your car.
Turn off the engine: Turn off the engine and allow it to cool down for a few minutes.
Check the engine: Open the hood and check for any obvious problems, such as loose wires or hoses. If you see anything that looks out of place, do not touch it and have your car towed to a mechanic.
Check the oil level: Use the dipstick to check the oil level. If the oil is low, add oil to the engine as necessary.
Restart the engine: Once you have checked the engine and oil level, restart the car. If the check engine light is still on and the car is still shaking, you will need to have it towed to a mechanic for diagnosis and repair.

Conclusion

A check engine light and car shaking can be a sign of a serious problem. If you experience these symptoms, it is important to take action as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your vehicle. By following the steps outlined in this post, you can help ensure that your car is repaired quickly and safely.