Why is my car shaking with the engine light on?
Introduction
If you’re driving down the road and your car starts shaking, and the engine light comes on, it can be a scary experience. You may be wondering what’s wrong with your car and how much it will cost to fix it. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the possible causes of a shaking car with the engine light on, and what you can do to fix it.
Causes of a Shaking Car with the Engine Light On
There are a number of different things that can cause a car to shake, including:
- Engine misfire: This is one of the most common causes of a shaking car. A misfire occurs when one or more of your engine’s cylinders doesn’t fire properly. This can be caused by a number of things, such as a bad spark plug, a faulty ignition coil, or a problem with the fuel injector.
- Vacuum leak: A vacuum leak can also cause a car to shake. A vacuum leak occurs when air is able to enter the engine’s intake manifold through a hole or crack. This can cause the engine to run lean, which can lead to a number of problems, including shaking.
- Driveline problems: Problems with the driveline, such as a bad driveshaft or a worn-out universal joint, can also cause a car to shake. Driveline problems can be dangerous, so it’s important to have them inspected and repaired as soon as possible.
What to Do If Your Car is Shaking with the Engine Light On
If your car is shaking and the engine light is on, the first thing you should do is pull over to a safe place and turn off the engine. Once the engine is off, you can check the engine oil level and coolant level. If either of these fluids is low, it could be causing your car to shake. You should also check for any loose or damaged hoses or belts.
If you can’t find any obvious problems, you should have your car towed to a mechanic. The mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.
How Much Does it Cost to Fix a Shaking Car with the Engine Light On?
The cost of fixing a shaking car with the engine light on will vary depending on the cause of the problem. If the problem is something simple, such as a bad spark plug, it may only cost a few hundred dollars to fix. However, if the problem is more serious, such as a driveline problem, it could cost several thousand dollars to fix.
Conclusion
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 problem could be something simple and inexpensive to fix, or it could be something more serious that could lead to further damage to your car. By having your car checked out right away, you can help to avoid more costly repairs in the future.
