Why is my car shaking and the engine light on?
Possible causes:
- Misfiring engine: This can be caused by a variety of issues, such as faulty spark plugs, worn-out ignition coils, or a problem with the fuel injection system.
- Vacuum leak: This can allow unmetered air to enter the engine, which can cause the air/fuel mixture to become too lean, resulting in a misfiring engine and shaking.
- Clogged catalytic converter: This can cause the exhaust gases to become restricted, which can lead to increased engine vibration and a loss of power.
- Loose or damaged engine mounts: These mounts are responsible for holding the engine in place, and if they become loose or damaged, they can allow the engine to move around excessively, causing shaking.
- Worn-out suspension components: These components, such as shocks, struts, and control arms, help to absorb road vibrations, and if they become worn out, they can allow excessive vibration to be transmitted to the car’s cabin.
- Uneven tire wear: This can cause the car to shake when driving at highway speeds.
- Faulty wheel bearings: These bearings allow the wheels to rotate smoothly, and if they become faulty, they can cause the wheels to wobble, resulting in shaking.
What to do:
If your car is shaking and the engine light is on, it’s important to have it checked out by 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 alleviate the shaking:
- Check your tire pressure: Make sure all of your tires are inflated to the correct pressure.
- Check your spark plugs: If your spark plugs are worn out, they can cause your engine to misfire, which can lead to shaking.
- Check your air filter: A clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, which can also lead to misfiring and shaking.
- Avoid driving at high speeds: If your car is shaking, it’s best to avoid driving at high speeds until you can have it checked out by a mechanic.
By following these steps, you can help to reduce the shaking and keep your car running smoothly until you can have it repaired.
