Why is my engine light on and car jerking?

Possible causes

There are many possible causes of an engine light and car jerking. Some of the most common include:

Spark plugs: Worn or fouled spark plugs can cause misfiring, which can lead to engine jerking and a lit engine light.
Ignition coils: Faulty ignition coils can also cause misfiring, leading to engine jerking and an engine light.
Fuel injectors: Clogged or dirty fuel injectors can cause a lack of fuel to the engine, which can lead to engine jerking and an engine light.
Air filter: A clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, which can lead to engine jerking and an engine light.
Mass airflow sensor: A faulty mass airflow sensor can send incorrect data to the engine computer, which can lead to engine jerking and an engine light.
Oxygen sensor: A faulty oxygen sensor can send incorrect data to the engine computer, which can lead to engine jerking and an engine light.
Catalytic converter: A clogged or damaged catalytic converter can restrict exhaust flow, which can lead to engine jerking and an engine light.

What to do

If you see an engine light and your car is jerking, it’s important to have it checked out by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. The mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate repairs.

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

Check the spark plugs: Remove the spark plugs and inspect them for wear or fouling. If the spark plugs are worn or fouled, replace them.
Check the ignition coils: Remove the ignition coils and inspect them for damage. If the ignition coils are damaged, replace them.
Check the fuel injectors: Remove the fuel injectors and inspect them for clogging or dirt. If the fuel injectors are clogged or dirty, clean them.
Replace the air filter: Remove the air filter and inspect it for clogging. If the air filter is clogged, replace it.
Check the mass airflow sensor: Remove the mass airflow sensor and inspect it for damage. If the mass airflow sensor is damaged, replace it.
Check the oxygen sensor: Remove the oxygen sensor and inspect it for damage. If the oxygen sensor is damaged, replace it.
Check the catalytic converter: Inspect the catalytic converter for clogging or damage. If the catalytic converter is clogged or damaged, replace it.

Conclusion

If you’re experiencing engine jerking and an engine light, it’s important to have it checked out by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. The mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate repairs.