How to Fix a Shaking Car Engine

1. Check the engine mounts

The engine mounts are rubber or hydraulic components that connect the engine to the frame of the car. Over time, these mounts can wear out or break, causing the engine to shake. To check the engine mounts, open the hood and look for any signs of damage or wear. If you see any cracks or tears in the mounts, they will need to be replaced.

2. Check the spark plugs

Spark plugs are responsible for igniting the air/fuel mixture in the cylinders. If the spark plugs are worn out or fouled, they can cause the engine to misfire, which can lead to shaking. To check the spark plugs, remove them from the engine and inspect them for any signs of damage or wear. If the spark plugs are fouled, they will need to be cleaned or replaced.

3. Check the fuel injectors

Fuel injectors are responsible for delivering fuel to the cylinders. If the fuel injectors are clogged or dirty, they can cause the engine to run lean or rich, which can lead to shaking. To check the fuel injectors, remove them from the engine and inspect them for any signs of damage or wear. If the fuel injectors are clogged or dirty, they will need to be cleaned or replaced.

4. Check the air filter

The air filter is responsible for filtering the air that enters the engine. If the air filter is clogged or dirty, it can restrict the flow of air to the engine, which can lead to shaking. To check the air filter, remove it from the engine and inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. If the air filter is clogged or dirty, it will need to be replaced.

5. Check the throttle body

The throttle body is responsible for controlling the flow of air into the engine. If the throttle body is dirty or clogged, it can cause the engine to run lean or rich, which can lead to shaking. To check the throttle body, remove it from the engine and inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. If the throttle body is dirty or clogged, it will need to be cleaned or replaced.

6. Check the timing belt or chain

The timing belt or chain is responsible for synchronizing the timing of the engine’s valves and pistons. If the timing belt or chain is worn out or damaged, it can cause the engine to run erratically, which can lead to shaking. To check the timing belt or chain, remove the timing belt cover and inspect the belt or chain for any signs of damage or wear. If the timing belt or chain is worn out or damaged, it will need to be replaced.

7. Check the engine compression

Engine compression is the measure of the pressure in the cylinders when the pistons are at the top of their stroke. If the engine compression is low, it can cause the engine to run poorly, which can lead to shaking. To check the engine compression, you will need a compression tester. Follow the instructions that come with the tester to check the compression in each cylinder. If the compression is low in any of the cylinders, it may be necessary to rebuild the engine.

Conclusion

If you are experiencing a shaking car engine, there are several potential causes. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can troubleshoot the problem and get your car running smoothly again.