Why Your Car Shakes During Acceleration: Causes & Fixes

Why Your Car Shakes During Acceleration: Causes & Fixes

When you’re driving and your car starts shaking as you accelerate, it can be more than just annoying; it could signify a significant issue lurking under the hood or within the car’s structure.


From unbalanced tires that disrupt your steering to more complex problems like a bent axle or failing engine mounts, the causes are varied and require your attention. 


Identifying the root cause is essential, not only to fix the shake but also to prevent potential safety hazards. So, what should you look out for, and how can you address these issues effectively before they worsen? Let’s explore some common culprits and their remedies.


COMMON CAUSES OF SHAKING


If your car shakes during acceleration, it could be due to unbalanced tires or wheels, worn-out spark plugs, damaged inner CV joints, broken motor mounts, or transmission issues.


You’re not alone in this; many car owners face similar challenges, and understanding the root causes can help you find a solution to ride smoothly again.


  • Unbalanced tires are a common culprit. They disrupt the harmony of your vehicle’s motion, leading to noticeable vibrations. Regular tire balancing can prevent this issue and improve your driving experience.


  • Similarly, worn-out spark plugs can degrade your engine’s performance, causing misfires and shakes. Replacing them might restore your engine’s efficiency and smoothness.


  • If your car’s axle is bent or the inner CV joints are damaged, these structural defects can significantly impact its stability during acceleration. Such issues require professional assessment and possibly a replacement to ensure safe driving.


  • Broken motor mounts also contribute to this problem by failing to hold the engine securely, thereby causing excessive movement and vibration.


  • Lastly, don’t overlook potential transmission issues; low fluid levels or damaged components need immediate attention to prevent further damage.


DIAGNOSING THE PROBLEM


To accurately pinpoint the cause of your car’s shaking during acceleration, thoroughly inspect the spark plugs, tires, and brake calipers. This initial check is vital to diagnose the problem effectively. 


If your car vibrates when accelerating, it could be due to various components failing or being out of alignment.

Here are some steps to further diagnose the problem:


  1. Inspect Engine Mounts: Check the engine mounts for any signs of wear or damage. Worn engine mounts can’t properly support the engine, leading to noticeable vibrations during acceleration.
  2. Look for a Bent Wheel: A bent wheel can disrupt your car’s balance to a significant degree. Even a slight bend might cause your vehicle to shake. This is often overlooked but critical.
  3. Evaluate the Transmission and Fuel System: Problems in the transmission or inconsistencies in the fuel system can also cause shaking. Make sure these systems are functioning correctly and that there’s no misfire in the engine.


TIRE INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE


Regular tire inspections are essential to prevent your car from shaking during acceleration due to unbalanced tires. Tire maintenance isn’t just about ensuring longevity; it’s about enhancing your driving experience and safety. When you check your tires regularly, you’re taking proactive steps to identify early signs of wear and tear that could lead to bigger issues like unbalanced tires.


Unbalanced tires occur when the weight distribution around the tire isn’t even, causing uneven and rapid tread wear. This imbalance can cause noticeable vibrations, especially as you pick up speed. To counter this, make sure your tires are balanced and your wheel alignment is checked periodically.


Proper wheel alignment is vital as it ensures that your tires meet the road at the correct angle, improving handling and preventing your car from veering to one side. Additionally, maintaining the correct tire pressure is essential. Not only does it prevent tire stress and irregular wear, but it also enhances fuel efficiency.


Each vehicle has its recommended tire pressure, and sticking to it can significantly improve your car’s performance. Don’t overlook these simple steps; they’re your first line of defense against the discomfort and potential hazards of a shaking car during acceleration.


SUSPENSION SYSTEM CHECK


When inspecting your car’s suspension system, it’s important to identify common issues such as worn shocks or struts and damaged control arms or bushings. 


These defects can cause your vehicle to shake during acceleration and negatively affect your driving experience.


COMMON SUSPENSION PROBLEMS


Common suspension issues like worn-out shocks or struts can cause your car to shake during acceleration. Here are the key components to check if you’re experiencing this problem:


  1. Shocks or Struts are fundamental to controlling the impact and rebound in your vehicle’s suspension system. If they’re damaged or worn out, you’ll notice shaking and a bumpy ride. Regular checks are vital to ensure they’re in good working condition.
  2. Control Arms and Bushings: The control arms allow for smooth movement and stabilization of your car’s suspension system, while bushings act as cushions to reduce friction. If these are worn or damaged, it can lead to significant instability during acceleration, contributing to the shaking.
  3. Regular Inspection: Don’t overlook the importance of a routine suspension system check. This can identify early signs of wear on components like coil springs and steering linkage, which are also critical to maintaining your car’s stability and smooth performance.


REPAIRING SUSPENSION COMPONENTS


To address car shaking issues effectively, it’s important to inspect and repair any worn-out suspension components, starting with shocks or struts. These elements play a significant role in your vehicle’s suspension system, absorbing the impact from road irregularities and ensuring a smoother ride. 


If you’re noticing more bumps or vibrations than usual, it could indicate that your shocks or struts need attention.

Next, examine the control arms and bushings. These parts work together to maintain the alignment of your car’s wheels and the stability of the steering. 


Worn-out bushings or faulty control arms can lead to a lack of control and increased shaking during acceleration. Replacing these components can significantly improve your driving experience by restoring proper alignment and reducing vibrations.


Lastly, ensure that the steering linkage is tight and in good condition. Loose or worn steering components can exacerbate shaking issues, especially at higher speeds. 


ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION ISSUES


Your car’s engine or transmission issues are often behind the unsettling shakes you feel during acceleration. Here’s a breakdown of the primary culprits:


  1. Engine Misfires
  2. Transmission Troubles
  3. Faulty Engine Mounts


PROFESSIONAL REPAIR SOLUTIONS


Several mechanical issues can cause your car to shake during acceleration, and addressing these with professional repairs is essential for restoring smooth performance. When your car shakes, it’s not just uncomfortable; it’s a sign that something’s important.

Here’s what could be wrong and how you can fix it with the help of a professional:


  1. Unbalanced Tires: If you’re experiencing vibrations mainly in the steering wheel, your tires might be the culprits. Over time, tires can lose their balance, leading to uneven wear and tear. A mechanic can balance your tires, ensuring the weight is evenly distributed, which should reduce or eliminate the shaking.
  2. Bent Axles or Driveshafts: Accidents or driving over rough terrain can bend these components, causing significant vibrations during acceleration. This complex issue requires a skilled mechanic to straighten or replace the bent parts to ensure your car drives smoothly again.
  3. Damaged Inner CV Joints: If the shaking intensifies while speeding up or turning, the inner CV joints might be damaged. These joints are important for transferring power from your transmission to your wheels while accommodating the up-and-down motion of your suspension. A mechanic will need to inspect and possibly replace these joints.


CONCLUSION


Don’t overlook regular check-ups and timely repairs to guarantee your car runs smoothly and avoids the common issue of shaking during acceleration.


Surprisingly, about 50% of vehicle vibrations are due to tire issues alone. Schedule routine tire maintenance and alignments, and consult a mechanic to diagnose potential suspension or drivetrain problems thoroughly.


Addressing these issues promptly not only enhances your driving experience but also extends the life of your vehicle.


At JB Import Automotive Repair, our Bentley services are designed to meet these needs, ensuring that your Bentley remains a symbol of luxury and performance excellence. Contact us today by calling our St Petersburg, FL, shop at (727) 353-8457 to schedule your next service appointment and experience the difference professional care makes for your vehicle.

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