Why Is My Car Shaking Check Engine Light On

Is your car shaking, and is the check engine light on? This can be a frustrating and unsettling experience, especially if you're not sure what's causing the problem. In this article, we'll explore some common reasons why your car might be shaking, and what you can do to diagnose and fix the issue.

A car with a shaking problem and check engine light on

Why is my car shaking?

There are many possible reasons why your car might be shaking. Some common causes include:

Unbalanced or loose wheels: If your wheels are unbalanced or loose, it can cause your car to shake or vibrate, especially when you're driving at high speeds.
Worn or loose belts: Over time, your car's belts can wear out or become loose, causing your engine to shake or vibrate.
Bad spark plugs: Spark plugs that are worn out or fouled can cause your engine to misfire, leading to a shaking or vibrating sensation.
Low transmission fluid: If your transmission fluid is low, it can cause your car to shake or vibrate, especially when you're shifting gears.
Faulty oxygen sensor: A faulty oxygen sensor can cause your engine to run rich or lean, leading to a shaking or vibrating sensation.

What does the check engine light mean?

The check engine light is a warning indicator that's designed to alert you to potential problems with your car's engine or emissions system. When the light comes on, it means that your car's onboard computer (OBD-II) has detected a problem or malfunction.

Common causes of the check engine light

Some common causes of the check engine light include:

Loose gas cap: A loose gas cap can trigger the check engine light, as it can cause your car's fuel system to malfunction.
Faulty oxygen sensor: A faulty oxygen sensor can cause the check engine light to come on, as it can affect your car's emissions and performance.
Catalytic converter problems: A clogged or failing catalytic converter can cause the check engine light to come on, as it can affect your car's emissions and performance.
Mass airflow sensor problems: A faulty mass airflow sensor can cause the check engine light to come on, as it can affect your car's engine performance and emissions.

How to diagnose the problem

To diagnose the problem, you'll need to use a code reader or scan tool to retrieve the trouble code from your car's onboard computer. This will give you a better idea of what's causing the problem.

Here are some steps you can take to diagnose the problem:

Use a code reader or scan tool: Connect the code reader or scan tool to your car's OBD-II port, and retrieve the trouble code.
Check the dashboard warning lights: Check the dashboard warning lights to see if there are any other lights on, such as the temperature light or the oil light.
Check the owner's manual: Check the owner's manual to see if there are any troubleshooting guides or recommendations for diagnosing and fixing common problems.
Consult a mechanic: If you're not sure what's causing the problem, consult a mechanic or a repair manual for further guidance.

How to fix the problem

Once you've diagnosed the problem, you can start making repairs. Here are some steps you can take to fix the problem:

Replace the faulty part: If you've determined that a faulty part is causing the problem, replace it with a new one.
Tighten loose belts: If you've determined that a loose belt is causing the problem, tighten it or replace it if necessary.
Refill fluids: If you've determined that low fluids are causing the problem, refill them to the recommended level.
Reset the check engine light: Once you've fixed the problem, reset the check engine light using a code reader or scan tool.

A car being repaired for a shaking problem and check engine light

Gallery of Shaking Car and Check Engine Light

Shaking Car and Check Engine Light Image Gallery

A car with a loose belt causing a shaking problem

A car with a faulty oxygen sensor causing a shaking problem

A car with low transmission fluid causing a shaking problem

A car with a faulty mass airflow sensor causing a shaking problem

A car with a loose gas cap causing a shaking problem

A car with a catalytic converter problem causing a shaking problem

A car with a bad spark plug causing a shaking problem

A car with a shaking problem and check engine light on being repaired

A car with a shaking problem and check engine light on being diagnosed

FAQs

What does the check engine light mean?

The check engine light is a warning indicator that's designed to alert you to potential problems with your car's engine or emissions system.

Why is my car shaking?

There are many possible reasons why your car might be shaking, including unbalanced or loose wheels, worn or loose belts, bad spark plugs, low transmission fluid, and faulty oxygen sensors.

How do I diagnose the problem?

To diagnose the problem, use a code reader or scan tool to retrieve the trouble code from your car's onboard computer. Check the dashboard warning lights, and consult the owner's manual or a mechanic for further guidance.

How do I fix the problem?

Once you've diagnosed the problem, replace the faulty part, tighten loose belts, refill fluids, and reset the check engine light using a code reader or scan tool.

If your car is shaking and the check engine light is on, don't ignore the problem. Diagnose and fix the issue as soon as possible to avoid further damage and costly repairs. Remember to always consult a mechanic or a repair manual if you're not sure what's causing the problem or how to fix it.