Check Engine Light Flashing and Car Shaking When Accelerating

Introduction

If you’re driving down the road and your check engine light starts flashing and your car starts shaking, it can be a very concerning experience. You may be wondering what is causing the problem and how serious it is. In this article, we’ll discuss the potential causes of this problem and what you need to do to fix it.

Causes of Check Engine Light Flashing and Car Shaking When Accelerating

There are several potential causes of this problem, including:

• Misfiring engine: A misfiring engine can cause your car to shake and vibrate, and it can also trigger the check engine light to flash. Misfiring can be caused by a variety of problems, such as faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors.
• Vacuum leak: A vacuum leak can also cause your car to shake and vibrate, and it can also lead to a flashing check engine light. Vacuum leaks can occur in a variety of places, such as the intake manifold, throttle body, or PCV valve.
• Faulty oxygen sensor: An oxygen sensor measures the amount of oxygen in your exhaust, and it helps your car’s engine to run efficiently. A faulty oxygen sensor can cause your car to run rich or lean, which can lead to shaking and vibration. It can also trigger the check engine light to flash.
• Catalytic converter problems: The catalytic converter is a device that helps to reduce emissions from your car’s exhaust. If the catalytic converter is damaged or clogged, it can cause your car to shake and vibrate, and it can also trigger the check engine light to flash.

What to Do If Your Check Engine Light Is Flashing and Your Car Is Shaking When Accelerating

If you’re experiencing this problem, it’s important to take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible. The mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the necessary repairs.

In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to try to fix the problem yourself:

• Check your spark plugs and ignition coils: If your spark plugs or ignition coils are faulty, they can cause your engine to misfire. Replacing the spark plugs and ignition coils may solve the problem.
• Check for vacuum leaks: Vacuum leaks can be difficult to find, but there are a few things you can look for. Inspect the intake manifold, throttle body, and PCV valve for any cracks or tears. You can also use a smoke machine to help you find vacuum leaks.
• Clean the oxygen sensor: A dirty oxygen sensor can cause your car to run rich or lean, which can lead to shaking and vibration. Cleaning the oxygen sensor may solve the problem.

Conclusion

If you’re experiencing this problem, it’s important to take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible. The mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the necessary repairs. In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to try to fix the problem yourself, but it’s always best to leave major repairs to a qualified mechanic.