A car shaking when accelerating can be caused by several common issues, often related to tires, drivetrain components, engine, and mounts. Here are the main reasons and what they mean:
- Unbalanced Tires or Wheels: Uneven weight distribution around tires causes vibrations felt especially when accelerating. Regular tire balancing and wheel alignment prevent this issue.
- Worn or Dirty Spark Plugs: Old spark plugs can cause engine misfires leading to shaking during acceleration. Replacing spark plugs can restore smooth engine performance.
- Damaged Inner CV Joints: These joints transfer power from the transmission to the wheels while allowing suspension movement. When worn or damaged, they cause shaking that worsens on acceleration and turns.
- Broken or Worn Engine (Motor) Mounts: Engine mounts hold the engine in place. When broken, they allow excess engine movement leading to vibrations especially when accelerating.
- Bent Axle or Driveshaft: Damage from impacts like hitting curbs or potholes can bend axles or driveshafts, causing shakes that worsen with more acceleration.
- Transmission Issues: Problems such as low or dirty transmission fluid or damaged transmission components can cause shaking under acceleration.
- Stuck Brake Caliper or Loose Lug Nuts: These can cause friction or imbalance, resulting in shaking during acceleration.
It is important to have the vehicle inspected comprehensively, including tires, spark plugs, CV joints, engine mounts, axles, and transmission. Addressing these issues typically involves professional repair such as tire balancing, replacing worn parts, or fixing alignment problems, to restore smooth acceleration and vehicle safety.
If the shaking is significant, it is advised not to drive the car until it is checked to avoid further damage or risk.
