Car Shakes At Idle But Smooths Out While Driving – How To Fix?

Although it might seem strange, this situation isn’t as uncommon as you might think. When your car shakes at idle but smooths out while driving – something you might notice when driving through busy cities with all their stoplights, for example – it’s not necessarily the end of the world.

As with all problems, it’s best to approach them logically. If the car shakes at idle, is it because of low revs – is that car physically struggling? – or is it running just fine but still shuddering? Are there any well-known problems with your model, or have you noticed something playing up recently? All of these should be taken into account when you’re trying to figure out what’s going on.

If this happens to you, the first and most important thing is to keep your cool. If you can tell that the car is likely to stall, keep your foot slightly on the throttle pedal to give the engine enough power to keep ticking over.

However, if the car does stall, do your best to restart it and pull over to a safe location out of the flow of traffic.

In this article, I’ll be explaining some of the most likely things that could mean the car shakes at idle but smooths out again when you start driving. This is actually something that happened to me a couple of years ago – click here to skip down to the second on throttle bodies.

• Cause #1: Engine Misfires
• Cause #2: Bad Motor Mounts
• Cause #3: Clogged Fuel Intake
• Cause #4: Worn-Out Timing Belt
• Cause #5: Dirty Spark Plugs
• Cause #6: Faulty Throttle Bodies
• Cause #7: Bad Air Intake
• Other Common Causes…
• How To Fix This
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why Is My Car Shaking

A car shaking at idle, especially, is usually a sign of either

• a misfire,
• engine mounts breaking,
• fuel intake clogged up,
• timing belt,
• dirty or malfunctioning spark plugs,
• throttle body problems, or
• air intake issues.

Of all these, most will lead to reduced engine power, especially at idle. However, for problems with engine mounts, the output might feel about the same. Therefore, engine mounts should be the first thing to check if your car shakes at idle and smooths out when driving but isn’t experiencing any drop in power.

One of the main things to look for is the rev counter when you’re at idle. When the car starts shaking, is the rev counter lower than it usually is? For example, most cars have a tick-over of somewhere between 600 and 1,000 rpm. Suppose it’s 100 or 200 rpm lower than usual. In that case, the shuddering feeling is the car trying to maintain the engine’s turning momentum and struggling to do so.

When a car moves, any changes in speed produce a smaller shift in momentum – relatively – within the motor. That could be why the car shakes more at idle but smooths out when driving more quickly.

For an easy comparison, think of someone doing a workout. As they get more tired, their movements become slower, more strained, and require more effort. Sometimes their arms or legs will start shaking, even.

Previously, momentum might have been helping them to keep going, but now, without it, they’re struggling. This is a bit like what happens when the engine is at idle, and your car has a related fault, leading it to start shuddering.

Car Shakes At Idle But Smooths Out While Driving, Causes #1: Misfire

A misfire could be caused by one of literally hundreds of things, but there are some common culprits:

• Spark plugs.
• Ignition coils.
• Lack of compression.
• Injector issues.
• Valve failure.

The main signs of a misfire are a significant drop in power – you’ll feel this both at idle and while driving – and a general shaking of the car.

The engine shakes while there’s a cylinder misfire because its natural balance has been disrupted. For smooth and efficient power production, engines are naturally in balance. That’s why most engines have an even number of cylinders (for example, Inline-4, Straight-6, V8, W16). Usually, while one cylinder travels up, another travels down. This balances out the forces and makes for more power and a better ride for the occupants.

(Note: Boxer/Flat engines are the most naturally balanced of the three main engine types. They’re followed by Inline/Straight engines, with V and W engines taking up the rear. V and W engines need extra components called balancing shafts to make them, well, balance.)

The engine shaking from a misfire transmits through the rest of the car by literally shaking it, a little like somebody standing in front of your car and pushing it up and down (just really quickly). The vibrations transmit exceptionally well through the powertrain.

An excellent way to spot a misfire in a manual car is to park up somewhere safe with the handbrake on, turn the engine on, and put the gearstick into neutral. With most misfires, you’ll notice excessive vibrations coming through them.

Why Might I Notice A Misfire More At Idle

A misfire is more noticeable at idle because the engine has to work harder to maintain its speed.

You might also notice the shaking more at idle because the car is sitting still. It’s possible that, when you’re moving, these forces act to dampen the shuddering effect of the engine. Even the road noise might subconsciously impact you and distract you from the shaking when driving. However, when the car is stationary, you might be more likely to notice everything.

If you think you might have a misfire but aren’t sure, it might be best to take your car to a trusted professional mechanic.

Car Shakes At Idle But Smooths Out While Driving, Causes #2: Engine Mounts

Engine mounts… well, they mount your engine in the chassis. They hold it there and act as a sort of mix of legs, arms, and suspenders.

Your engine doesn’t just sit bottom-down on a flat piece of metal. The reason? The vibrations and shaking would be so unbearable that nobody would ever choose to drive their car for more than a couple of miles.

Instead of sitting the engine on something, manufacturers use engine mounts to sort of hold it in space. This means vibrations are far less intense. The mounts are also designed to dampen the forces going through them, reducing the feeling of the vibrations even further.

If one breaks, it’ll be unlikely to have too much of an effect on the vehicle’s overall performance. That is, you wouldn’t usually expect to see a significant drop in power output (although it could be possible if the engine has literally dropped slightly, I suppose). However, you would certainly feel the vibrations coming through from the engine much more intensely.

You might be more likely to feel this shaking at idle simply because there’s less going on to distract you from it. If you drive an automatic, try putting the car into neutral (not while you’re moving! Park up somewhere safe first!). If the shaking seems to subside, engine mounts (or transmission mounts) might be the issue.

To get an engine mount repaired, you will probably need to take your car to a professional. The engine will need to be lifted out of place, and a not-insignificant replacement or repair job carried out. Unless you have access to an engine hoist and know your way around engine mounts, I’d recommend leaving this one to the experts.

Car Shakes At Idle But Smooths Out While Driving, Causes #3: Fuel Intake

Issues with fuel and combustion would very much link into the misfire and air intake sections of this article.

If there’s a problem with the fuel entering the cylinder, it could cause a reduction in power due to insufficient amounts being burnt. For example,

1. The fuel injector could be malfunctioning.
2. Significant amounts of dirt or debris could have compromised the quantity and quality of fuel, indicating a problem with the fuel filter.
3. The fuel pump might not be functioning correctly.
4. An intake valve might be malfunctioning or affected by debris.

These fuel-related issues could mean a varying quantity of fuel gets delivered into the engine with each revolution. As such, you’ll notice high-frequency vibrations, relatively correlating to the engine’s cycles per minute (rpm level).

Again, you can probably feel these vibrations at all levels, but they might be more noticeable at idle. The engine has to work harder to keep going. You’ll notice consistently poor performance levels at all times.

Car Shakes At Idle But Smooths Out While Driving, Causes #4: Timing Belt

A timing belt (or chain) – otherwise known as a cambelt – has the job of matching the pistons’ positions to the corresponding valve positions. By linking the crankshaft with the camshaft through an ingeniously simple mechanical gear/pulley system, the engine continues to function accurately for hundreds of millions, if not billions, of revolutions.

Inevitably, though, things sometimes go wrong.

Nowadays, most manufacturers use timing belts over chains. They do that simply because it’s cheaper, although they’re also quieter and lighter. With the modern-day automotive market being as competitive as it is, manufacturers need every penny.

Timing belts often suffer from the curse of all belts: they start off tight but lose tension and slacken out over time. Occasionally, they tear or crack.

When this happens – and it will, at some point – you’ll need to take it in for a professional repair. This one isn’t something I’d recommend trying to do yourself. Misalign the timing, and you could be in for a new engine as a minimum and possibly a written-off vehicle altogether.

A bit like a bike chain, the timing chain can sometimes jump or slip. Chains tend to last longer than belts, as you might imagine, but they too can stretch over time. Again, you should take your car to a shop to get this fixed.

Because things aren’t lining up properly, you can get vibrations throughout the car. The engine will feel sluggish and almost pained, too.

Diagnosing A Faulty Timing Belt

It can be hard to diagnose a misaligned timing belt or chain if you don’t know your way around an engine. However, if it’s damaged or snapped altogether, it’ll certainly be playing havoc with your revs, one way or another.

(Note: People commonly get confused between the timing belt/cambelt and the drive/fan belt. The timing belt connects the crankshaft to the camshaft and is responsible, in essence, for valve timing.

You shouldn’t be able to see it on most engines without taking the engine apart a bit. By contrast, the drive belt is the one you can see when you open your hood. It connects the crankshaft to things like the power steering pump, air conditioning compressor, and alternator.)

A damaged or stretched timing belt could cause vibrations that you feel more at idle than at speed. This would be due to similar reasons to those mentioned before. Things are more noticeable when fewer forces are acting on the vehicle. The engine is also mechanically relying on itself to maintain momentum without manual throttle input from you, the driver.

The overall lesson? If in doubt about a timing chain, take your car to a shop that you trust. If your car shakes at idle but smooths out when you’re driving at speed, a timing belt could be the issue.

Timing belt replacement jobs can be relatively expensive.

Car Shakes At Idle But Smooths Out While Driving, Causes #5: Spark Plugs

Spark plug failure is usually down to carbon build-up. When it “fires” (produces a spark), this ignites the air/fuel mixture within the cylinder. Fuel, whether gasoline or diesel, is a set of long hydrocarbon chains. When these ignite, carbon is a by-product. Most of it escapes through the exhaust valve, but some will coat the spark plug.

This carbon coating can stop the plug from sparking entirely or simply reduce its effectiveness.

Technically, this would also fall under the realm of misfiring. See above for more detailed information about why it means your car shakes at idle but smooths out while driving more quickly.

Spark plugs are one of the most straightforward jobs on most cars unless you have a big, old V-engine. Cheap spark plugs aren’t a worthwhile investment – they’ll fail much earlier and can cause a whole wealth of other problems. It’s best to get the mid-range or premium brands.

Good spark plugs generally cost about $3 to $5 each for standard ones, while the more expensive iridium plugs can come in at up to $8, $10, or even $15 each.

Car Shakes At Idle But Smooths Out While Driving, Causes #6: Throttle Body

When my car developed this very problem, the cause turned out to be the throttle body. It behaved fine most of the time, but it would suddenly start to struggle when sitting still with the engine running. It was almost as if it would suddenly panic, shudder, and gasp for air, sometimes for a while, with the revs dropping well below the standard idle rate.

Then, eventually, it would either reset itself, or I would blip the throttle, raising the revs and seemingly resetting the system.

I was also experiencing occasional inconsistent throttle delay.

For a while, this puzzled me, but I then set to work checking a few things. After ruling out the spark plugs or any misfires, I turned my attention to the throttle body.

I popped down to the local parts store and got myself a cheap bottle of throttle body cleaner (which is all you need – make sure you know how to clean throttle body). I then took the throttle body off the top of the engine – it’s not too complicated on most cars – and cleaned it up, including the throttle plate.

The butterfly valve is a piece of metal that turns when you press the throttle pedal. The more you press the pedal, the more it turns, allowing more air to pass by it and into the engine.

(Note: Although the butterfly valve – the rotating metal face within the throttle body – might feel sensitive and breakable, it’s a fairly tough piece of kit. It shouldn’t break. He says. Not that you shouldn’t be cautious!)

After cleaning everything up, I reconnected all the parts (including the TPS – Throttle Position Sensor – don’t forget about that) and started her up. And she worked. This was three or four years ago, and I haven’t had a problem since.

I must confess, to this day, I’m not sure what exactly was wrong. Perhaps the parts cleaner removed some dirt, dust, or grease interfering with the throttle plate or the TPS. Maybe simply unplugging and plugging back in the TPS (turning it off and on again, I suppose) reset everything.

Either way, you should check the throttle body and clean it up. It shouldn’t cost you much. Just make sure you don’t break anything or lose any of the connecting bolts.

It might just solve your problem.

Car Shakes At Idle But Smooths Out While Driving, Causes #7: Air Intake

Problems with the air intake might be directly related to the throttle body. If you think that might be the case, scroll up slightly to read that section.

The air intake of a car is one of two parts that combine to form power. The other is, of course, the fuel, whether gasoline or diesel.

If something is going on to prevent the air from reaching the cylinder, it’s a bit like covering a candle with one of those snuffer things. Remove the oxygen from the fire, and it goes out. That’s quite literally what happens in these situations.

For it to cause shaking, it’ll probably only be affecting one or two cylinders, thus leading to an imbalance. To my mind, the most likely reason behind this would be a faulty valve.

If a valve doesn’t open all the way – or, indeed, at all – it could choke one cylinder of oxygen while leaving the others fully functional. This would create a misfire and a vibration noticeable when your car’s sat at idle.

Reduced airflow, in general, could make the car struggle, too. This could happen if there were issues with vacuum seals or even a ridiculously clogged-up air filter (which you can diagnose by learning how to change air filter in car). If the MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor records a lower volume of air entering the engine, the fuel amounts will also reduce, dropping the engine speed down towards tick over.

If the engine speed drops below its usual tick-over, it will cause shaking and shuddering. With a substantially reduced airflow, it may even struggle to bring the revs back up and stall. To stop this from happening, you’d need to have your foot slightly on the gas at all times when stationary.

Car Shakes At Idle But Smooths Out While Driving, Causes #8: Transmission Issues

Another possible cause of your car shaking at idle but then smoothing out while driving could be issues with the transmission. The transmission is what changes the gears of your car, whether it’s an automatic or a manual. If the transmission mount is damaged or worn out, it can cause the vehicle to shake because the transmission isn’t held in place correctly.

Other transmission-related issues could be a worn-out clutch (for manual transmissions) or problems with the torque converter (for automatic transmissions). When the clutch is worn out, it can cause a shaking or shuddering sensation, particularly at idle. Similarly, a faulty torque converter can cause the vehicle to shake at low speeds or when the vehicle is stopped but then smooth out as you accelerate.

Car Shakes At Idle But Smooths Out While Driving, Causes #9: Exhaust System

The exhaust system of your car is responsible for removing the gases produced during combustion from the engine and out of the vehicle. If there is a leak in the exhaust system, it can cause the vehicle to shake or vibrate, especially at idle. This is because the exhaust gases are not being properly expelled from the engine, causing an imbalance.

The exhaust system includes several components, such as the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and tailpipe. A leak in any of these parts can lead to vibrations. Additionally, if the exhaust hangers, which hold the exhaust system in place, are damaged or missing, it can cause the exhaust system to move around, leading to shaking or vibration.

Car Shakes At Idle But Smooths Out While Driving, Causes #10: Brake Issues

If your vehicle shakes at idle but smooths out while driving, it could be due to an issue with the brakes. Specifically, a warped brake rotor can cause the vehicle to shake or vibrate when the brakes are applied. However, if the brakes are not engaged, the vehicle may shake at idle but then smooth out as you accelerate.

A warped brake rotor is not the only brake-related issue that can cause your vehicle to shake. Other possibilities include worn-out brake pads, damaged brake calipers, or issues with the brake booster. Any of these issues can cause the vehicle to shake or vibrate, particularly at low speeds or when stopped.

Car Shakes At Idle But Smooths Out While Driving, Causes #11: Suspension Issues

The suspension system of your vehicle is designed to absorb bumps and provide a smooth ride. If any component of the suspension system is damaged or worn out, it can cause the vehicle to shake or vibrate. Common suspension-related issues that can lead to shaking include worn-out shock absorbers or struts, damaged bushings, or a problem with the steering rack.

If the shaking or vibration is more pronounced when you go over bumps or rough patches of road, it is more likely to be a suspension-related issue. However, even if the shaking is only noticeable at idle, it is still worth checking the suspension system for any obvious signs of damage or wear.

Car Shakes At Idle But Smooths Out While Driving, Causes #12: CV Joint

The drive shaft and CV (Constant Velocity) joints are critical components of your vehicle’s drivetrain. They are responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. If the drive shaft or CV joints are damaged or worn out, it can cause the vehicle to shake or vibrate.

A common sign of a damaged drive shaft or CV joint is a shaking or vibration that increases with speed. However, in some cases, the shaking may be more noticeable at idle and then smooth out as you accelerate. If you hear a clicking or popping noise when turning, it is a strong indication that there is a problem with the CV joints.

Car Shakes At Idle But Smooths Out While Driving, Causes #13: Wheel Balance

Another common cause of vehicle shaking is wheel imbalance. The wheels of your vehicle need to be balanced properly to ensure a smooth ride. If the wheels are not balanced correctly, it can cause the vehicle to shake or vibrate at certain speeds.

In many cases, the shaking caused by wheel imbalance is more pronounced at higher speeds. However, it is possible for the shaking to be noticeable at idle and then smooth out as you accelerate. If you recently had your tires changed or rotated, and the shaking started after that, it is worth having the wheel balance checked.

Car Shakes At Idle But Smooths Out While Driving, Causes #14: Tire Issues

Lastly, tire issues can also cause your vehicle to shake at idle and then smooth out while driving. A damaged tire or one that is not properly inflated can lead to shaking or vibration. Additionally, uneven tire wear can also cause the vehicle to shake.

It is essential to check your tires regularly for any signs of damage or wear. Make sure they are properly inflated and in good condition. If you notice any unusual wear patterns or any visible damage to the tires, it is best to have them checked by a professional.

In conclusion, there are many possible causes of your vehicle shaking at idle but then smoothing out while driving. It is essential to address this issue promptly to prevent further damage to your vehicle. If you are not comfortable diagnosing the problem yourself, it is always best to seek the help of a professional.

Fixes and Repairs for Car Shaking at Idle

If your car shakes at idle but smooths out while driving, here are some fixes and repairs that you might consider…

1. Replace Damaged Engine Mounts

Engine mounts hold the engine in place and absorb its vibrations. Damaged mounts can cause the car to shake at idle. To check, push the motor in different directions. If it’s loose, replace the engine mounts. Costs range from $190 to $210.

2. Change Faulty Spark Plugs

Faulty spark plugs can cause the car to stall at idle. Clean clogged spark plugs with a spray cleaner and wire brush. Replace damaged ones. Costs range from $5 to $39 per plug.

3. Repair the Fuel Intake System

Inspect the fuel intake system, fuel pump, intake manifold, throttle body, and intake valves. Sometimes, a fuel induction cleaning is all that is needed.

4. Replace the Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve

A clogged or damaged IAC valve can cause vibrations. Clean a clogged valve and replace a damaged one. The IAC valve is located in the intake manifold behind the throttle body. Costs range from $90 to $520.

5. Replace Worn Belts and Hoses

Worn belts and hoses can cause the car to shake at idle. Replace them as needed. Costs vary based on vehicle model and labor.

6. Throttle Position Sensor Diagnosis

Test the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) with a digital multimeter. This tool measures the voltage output as you open and close the throttle. Sudden drops or jumps in voltage indicate a faulty TPS that needs replacement.

7. Clean the Throttle Body

Carbon deposits in the throttle body can hinder airflow. Remove the throttle body and clean it with a cleaning agent. Replace it if it is worn or damaged.

8. Test the Fuel Pressure Regulator

A faulty fuel pressure regulator can disrupt fuel pressure, causing an uneven running engine. Test by connecting a fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail and observing the pressure readings at various RPMs. If the pressure does not change appropriately with the RPMs, replace the regulator.

9. Check the Oxygen Sensor Function

A malfunctioning oxygen sensor can lead to an incorrect air-fuel mixture. A professional mechanic can conduct a diagnostic test. Replace the sensor if it is not functioning correctly.

10. Inspect the Gas Cap

A loose, damaged, or missing gas cap can cause the engine to shake at idle. Inspect the gas cap for visible damage and ensure it seals properly when closed. Replace if necessary.

11. Check the Camshaft Timing Chain

Inspecting the camshaft timing chain typically requires professional expertise. If the car has high mileage or you hear a rattling noise from the engine at startup, this could indicate a worn timing chain. In this case, consult a professional mechanic.

12. What to Look Out For

Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance can prevent many problems that cause a car to shake at idle. Follow the maintenance schedule in your car’s owner’s manual.

Listen for Noises

Unusual noises can indicate a problem. For example, a rattling noise at startup could indicate a worn camshaft timing chain.

Monitor Performance

Pay attention to your car’s performance. If you notice changes, such as stalling at idle, consult a professional mechanic.

Check for Warning Lights

Warning lights on the dashboard can indicate a problem. For example, the check engine light may illuminate if there is a problem with the oxygen sensor.

Visual Inspection

Regularly inspect your car for visible signs of wear and tear. For example, check the belts and hoses for signs of wear.

A car shaking at idle but smoothing out while driving can be caused by various issues, from damaged engine mounts to a faulty fuel pressure regulator. Regular maintenance and paying attention to your car’s performance can help prevent many problems. If you notice unusual noises, changes in performance, or warning lights on the dashboard, consult a professional mechanic.

Car Vibration Facts:

• It is normal for most cars to shake a bit when at idle due to the engine’s alignment and orientation and manufacturing tolerances of components.
• However, if the car idles rough, has trouble starting, or shakes noticeably when stopped, it’s time to investigate the problem.
• Eight common causes of the car shaking at idle but smoothing out while driving include loose gas cap, worn throttle position sensor, faulty idle air control valve, faulty accelerator position sensor, faulty fuel pressure regulator/ignition control module, oxygen sensor, dirty throttle body or sensor, and loose battery cables.
• A faulty timing chain tensioner or crankshaft position sensor should not be ignored as they can prevent the engine from working correctly and cause safety issues while driving.
• Cleaning out the throttle body with an aerosol cleaner, checking battery cables, replacing faulty parts with genuine OEM components, and inspecting hoses for any cracks or other problems can help fix car vibration.
• It is best to get a proper diagnosis of the problem before replacing any parts to ensure that the idling issue doesn’t indicate a more serious underlying problem.
• Driving a car with a rough idle due to engine problems or misfires may not be safe, and it is best to have the vehicle serviced right away.

In Conclusion…

Many things might cause your car to shake at idle.

In summary, you should ask yourself the following questions.

• Is the engine’s idle speed (tick over) lower than usual?
• Does the engine have the same levels of power output as usual?

If yes to either of the above, the cause is probably mechanical and needs further diagnosis. You could try working on a few more simple repairs yourself, such as replacing the spark plugs or air filters or cleaning up the throttle body. You may be able to check the engine mounts yourself, too.

If you’ve answered no to both of the questions bulleted above, it likely suggests issues with the engine mounts or transmission mounts.

As with all things automotive, it’s possible to work on these yourself… but not necessarily recommended. Rather than make a costly mistake, I’d recommend taking your car in for a professional diagnosis if you’re at all unsure. In the long run, you might actually save money by doing it this way.

Thanks for reading this article. If your car shakes at idle but smooths out while driving away, please let me know down below if you’ve managed to fix it and, if so, what the cause was. Likewise, if you’re still trying to figure it out, post your symptoms in the comments to put it out to the community.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you’re still curious to learn more about why your car shakes at idle but smooths out while driving, our FAQs here might help…

Why Does My Car Shake When I Accelerate

There are numerous reasons why your car is shaking while you’re accelerating. It could be that your CV joints and motor mounts have worn out. When that happens, what may often be small vibrations can turn into pretty intense shaking. Other than that, and more seriously, the lug nuts could be loose. Thus, causing your wheels to wobble around when you are on the move. Similarly, unbalanced tires might also impact how your wheels rotate. All in all, this contributes to the shakiness of your car. Similarly, bent driveshafts or a damaged axle, alongside stuck brake calipers, can also add to the shaking.

Why Is My Car Shaking When I Stop

When your car is shaking while stopped or when it’s idling, there could be several causes of this. Mainly, it’s probable that the spark plugs have worn out or if your engine has a vacuum leak, or maybe your engine’s belts are faulty, as well. Either way, that’ll interrupt the smooth operation of your engine, causing it to become imbalanced and this results in more shaking. The same goes if your fuel system has faults, too. For instance, a bad fuel pump or clogged fuel filter. Elsewhere, damaged engine mounts would add to the shaking, as they won’t be able to dampen the vibrations from the engine.

What Causes Car To Shake

A car shouldn’t normally vibrate and shake that intensely. If so, there could be many reasons for this. A lot of the time, the shaking is attributed to bad wheel alignments or an imbalanced set of tires. As they won’t be able to rotate as smoothly or track as well, you’ll soon notice these shakes. Beyond that, it’s possible that your car’s suspension and many joints have worn out. Once again, these will impact the overall balance and alignment of your vehicle. Nonetheless, faulty brakes can often materialize as shaking when you’re under hard braking. Or, faulty engine and transmission parts may also cause your car to shake.

How Do I Stop My Car Shaking When I Brake

When you press the brake pedal, a car should typically slow down gradually and smoothly before coming to a halt. It’s not common for your car to experience harsh shaking and vibrations under braking. If you do notice this, it’s often indicative that your brake rotors/discs are faulty. Specifically, if the rotors themselves are warped or have been damaged. As such, when you press the brakes, the brake pads aren’t able to grip an even and smooth rotor surface. Instead, the brake pads might bounce, skip, and grind on the brake rotors. In this case, you’ll have to re-surface the brake rotors or consider replacing them.

Why Does My Car Shake When The AC Is On

As you turn on the AC, you shouldn’t notice any odd behavior from your car, such as vibrations or shaking. Should you do, then it’s likely that something has failed. Most of the time, this would be the engine mounts. Once those mounts wear out, they won’t be able to dampen the natural vibrations from the AC system. Thus, causing it to reverberate throughout your car, and cause intense shaking from its many components. Other than that, issues with the AC system, such as low refrigerant levels, can also cause your car to shake. Usually, it’s due to the need for the AC compressor to overwork itself.