Many drivers experience a “shaking” or “jerking” sensation when their car engine is started. This is usually due to air being forced into and out of the cylinders at high speeds, which can cause the car to vibrate. There are several things you can do to minimize this shaking, including following your car’s maintenance schedule, modifying your driving habits, and checking your oil level and tire pressure.
What Causes the Shaking in Car Engines?
There can be many reasons why your car engine might shake when you start it. The most common culprit is a loose or worn belt, but other factors can also cause the shaking. Here are a few of the more common causes:
-A bad motor mount: This is a component that supports the engine and helps keep it in its proper position. A bad motor mount can cause vibrations and shaking in the engine.
-A failed engine seal: This is a sealant that helps to protect the engine from water and oil leaks. If this seal fails, water and oil can seep into the engine and cause vibrations and shaking.
-Bad drive belts: These belts connect the engine to the wheels and help move the vehicle. If they’re worn or frayed, they can cause vibrations and shaking in the engine.
How to Fix the Shaking in Car Engines
When you start your car, you may notice that the engine shakes for a few seconds. This is most likely due to a loose or defective engine mount. The shaking can also be caused by other factors, such as a bad transmission or a weak engine block. In most cases, fixing the shaking problem is easy and affordable. Here are some tips to help fix your shaking car engine:
1. Check the Engine Mounts
One of the first things you should do if your car is shaking is to check the engine mounts. These are the pieces of metal that connect the engine to the chassis and they can often become loose or defective over time. If one of these mounts is causing the engine to shake, it can be replaced relatively easily. Prices for engine mounts vary depending on the brand and model of your car, but they usually cost around $100-$200.
2. Fix the Transmission
Another common cause of shaking in car engines is a faulty transmission. If this is the case, it may require replacing the entire transmission assembly. Prices for transmissions vary depending on the make and model of your car, but they’re usually around $3,000-$6,000.
Conclusion
If you’ve ever had your car engine shake when you start it, there’s a good chance that you have an air leak. Air leaks can be small (like when a door is accidentally left open) or they can be more significant (like when the muffler on your car has gone bad and is letting air out of the system). If you think that your air leak might be causing your engine to shake, there are a few things that you can do to try and fix the issue.