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Why Does My Car Shake When I Accelerate?

2023 MINI Electric Hardtop
 

“Why does my car shake when I accelerate?” This is a common question we receive at the MINI of San Francisco service center. A car shakes when accelerating due to any number of possible causes, ranging from minor issues to potentially major problems. To ensure your vehicle continues to provide the performance you expect on the roads of Daly City, Pacifica, and beyond, we offer a detailed answer below to the all-important question: What causes a car to shake when accelerating?

What Causes a Car to Shake When Accelerating?

If your car shakes when accelerating, the best course of action is to bring it in for service as soon as possible. This way, our technicians can get to the bottom of the issue and perform the needed repairs, allowing you to resume your regular driving routine in San Mateo or wherever the road takes you. So, why does your car shake when you accelerate? Here’s a sampling of possible causes:

  • Engine Failure – Oftentimes, a car shakes when accelerating as a result of misfiring cylinders, worn spark plugs, or other failures in the engine system.
  • Transmission Problems – A failing transmission will sometimes slip or shift roughly, causing shaking when accelerating.
  • Suspension Misalignment – When your suspension is not aligned correctly or parts of your suspension system experience significant wear and tear, you may notice your car shakes when accelerating.
  • Tire Wear or Wheel Imbalances – Tire tread that wears unevenly or imbalances in your wheel alignment can also trigger shaking during acceleration. To minimize this risk, have your tires rotated and wheels balanced according to the service intervals recommended in your owner’s manual.

And what causes a car to shake when accelerating only intermittently? If shaking only occurs at certain speeds, the cause is most likely warped brake rotors or a failure in the driveshaft or CV joints.

Schedule Service in San Francisco

Now that you know why your car shakes when you accelerate, make repairs a priority. Contact us to set up an appointment or schedule a time online. While you’re here, browse our service specials for ways to save on your next visit. Our service team is dedicated to keeping your vehicle running smoothly so you can enjoy maximum peace of mind on every drive.

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