Check Engine Light Car Shakes When Accelerating

Causes of a Shaking Car When Accelerating

There are several potential causes of a car shaking when accelerating, including:

Spark plug problems
Ignition coil problems
Fuel injector problems
Vacuum leak
Transmission problems
Drivetrain problems
Tire problems

Symptoms of a Shaking Car When Accelerating

In addition to the Check Engine Light, other symptoms of a shaking car when accelerating may include:

Loss of power
Hesitation or jerking
Rough idle
Stalling
Noise
Vibration

Diagnosis of a Shaking Car When Accelerating

To diagnose the cause of a shaking car when accelerating, a mechanic will likely perform the following steps:

Inspect the spark plugs and ignition coils
Check the fuel injectors
Inspect the vacuum lines
Check the transmission fluid and filter
Inspect the driveshaft and CV joints
Inspect the tires

Treatment of a Shaking Car When Accelerating

The treatment for a shaking car when accelerating will depend on the underlying cause. Common repairs include:

Replacing spark plugs or ignition coils
Cleaning or replacing fuel injectors
Repairing or replacing vacuum lines
Servicing or replacing the transmission
Replacing the driveshaft or CV joints
Balancing or replacing tires

Prevention of a Shaking Car When Accelerating

There are several things you can do to help prevent a shaking car when accelerating, including:

Regularly maintain your car
Replace spark plugs and ignition coils as recommended by your manufacturer
Clean or replace fuel injectors as needed
Inspect vacuum lines regularly for cracks or leaks
Have your transmission serviced according to your manufacturer’s recommendations
Inspect your driveshaft and CV joints for signs of wear
Balance and rotate your tires regularly

Conclusion

A shaking car when accelerating can be a frustrating and scary experience. However, by understanding the potential causes and symptoms, you can help your mechanic diagnose and treat the problem quickly and effectively.