It can be a tense situation when your car suddenly starts shaking when you press the acceleration pedal as this could make you nervous.
A shaking car when accelerating is a signaling an issue with the engine, the drive train, and the wheel or suspension system of the vehicle.
What causes car to shake when accelerating are worn spark plug, damaged ignition coil, worn engine mount, damaged drivetrain, and a worn wheel or tire.
A shaking car can be fixed by visiting a nearby mechanic for a proper diagnosis and repair. Ignoring a shaking car can further damage the car engine and transmission which can be expensive to repair or replace. Fixing this issue early can also prevent road accident during acceleration.
Here in this article we would discuss what causes car to shake when accelerating and how to fix this issue.
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What Causes Car To Shake When Accelerating
Engine Issues
A worn out spark plug, and a faulty ignition coil preventing the cylinders from firing properly leading to a loss of power hence causing your vehicle to shake.
An inefficient fuel delivery system can cause your car to shake when accelerating. A stuck open or clogged fuel Injector, leaking fuel delivery or rail line, a damaged fuel pump and an emulsifier fuel from the fuel tank (water and fuel mixing together).
The engine mount can get worn out from rust overtime causing the car engine to shake when you press the acceleration pedal.
Drivetrain Issue
A problem from one or more component of the drivetrain ( the transmission, drive shaft, wheels, differentials and axles) can cause the car to shake when accelerating.
A failing torque converter with a worn clutch from a degraded transmission fluid can cause the car to shake or vibrate when you press the accelerator.
A slipping transmission caused by a worn out clutch or internal bands can prevents the transmission from failing to transfer power to the wheels.
Generally, a low, degraded or contaminated transmission fluid is a common cause a faulty transmission
A worn CV Joints or Axles can cause your car to shudder due to the high stress during acceleration and it is often accompanied by a clicking noise when turning.
A Damaged axle/driveshaft can cause your car to shake, vibrate or wobble when you press the gas pedal.
A worn drivetrain mount can cause a shaking car as it can no longer absorb vibration from the drivetrain.
Wheel & Tire Issue
A worn bushing can cause the control arms to shift excessively and vibrate when driving at high speed.
A deflated or worn tire can cause uneven rotation and shaking when driving or trying to accelerate
A loose lug nut, not properly fastened can shake and wobble when you press the acceleration pedal.
How to fix a car that shakes when accelerating
To fix a car that shakes when accelerating:
- Firstly take your car to a nearby mechanic for inspection.
- Do a manual inspection by checking for wear, tear and rust of the wheel components and tires. Also check if the loose lug nut is tightly fastened.
- Check the engine and drivetrain mounts for physical damages ( wear, tear and rust).
- Test or diagnose with an OBD II scanner. If the system detects a misfire in one or more cylinders. Replace worn spark plugs and faulty ignition coils. Test the condition of the fuel pump, replace faulty injector, clean the fuel tank from mixed water and fuel.
- Replace a faulty driveshaft component. Always inspect transmission oil level. Replace if transmission oil level is dirty or smell burnt and top up when low.
- Inspect the CV joints, Axles or driveshaft for damages.
What would make your car shake when accelerating?
Engine issues, driveshaft issue and a wheel & tire Issues are what causes car to shake when accelerating in high speed. Check out for the following components:
- Worn out spark plug.
- Faulty ignition coil.
- Stuck open or clogged fuel Injector.
- Leaking fuel delivery or rail line.
- Damaged fuel pump.
- Mix of water and fuel in the fuel tank.
- Worn engine or driveshaft mount.
- A failing torque converter.
- A slipping transmission.
- Low, degraded or contaminated transmission fluid.
- A worn CV Joints, axles or driveshaft.
- Worn bushing.
- Deflated or worn tire.
- Loose lug nut.
Can I drive my car if it shakes when I accelerate?
The car is designed to provide smooth driving experience and steady acceleration. When you notice a shaking car when accelerating or pressing the gas pedal it’s in your best interest to immediately resolve this issue. Ignoring such problem can lead to more component damage and an expensive repair.
Conclusion
We have written about what causes car to shake when accelerating and a practical solution that can guide you on how to fix this issue. Talk to an expert or a mechanic to explain the condition, the make and model of your car