November 15, 2022
Get It Fixed Right Away Before the Problem Worsens
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Shaking during acceleration isn’t uncommon, especially in older vehicles or those that aren’t getting regular maintenance. This could be a sign of a bigger problem. When left ignored, it could cause damage to certain parts of your car and pose a safety risk while you’re driving it.
That’s why you should take your car to your trusted mechanic as soon as you notice it vibrating when you accelerate. Getting it fixed early on will save you a big chunk of money, which you’d likely spend when the problem gets worse.
It’s also a good idea to understand the possible reasons behind the issue so you can perform the diagnosis yourself. You can even do the repair yourself if you’re dealing with a minor issue. That will surely save you some cash.
So, what makes a car shake when accelerating? Veteran Car Donations shares seven of the most common reasons:
- Uneven tires
If you just had your tires replaced and you start to notice your car shaking while you’re driving, then your new tires are most likely unbalanced. Vibration at a constant speed that worsens as speed increases suggests uneven tires. Head over to a tire shop and get your tires balanced or replaced.
- Broken inner CV joint
Your car’s inner CV joint, which is located at the end of the axle, should be one of the parts you should check if you’re experiencing shaking issues. A damaged CV joint will cause your vehicle to vibrate under hard acceleration. As it worsens, the minor vibrations can turn to violent shaking especially when the car is under load. The only way to fix this problem is by replacing your defective CV joint.
- Loose lug nuts
Loose nuts on one of your wheels could be another reason why your car wobbles every time you speed up. If you fail to address this issue right away, you could end up with a problem that’s much worse and more dangerous: losing a wheel while driving.
Use a torque wrench to make sure each lug nut on each wheel is tightened to the recommended factory specs. If there’s no torque wrench available, a regular lug nut wrench or tire iron will do.
- Bad motor mount
Motor mounts have two functions: attaching a car’s engine to its vehicle and reducing or dampening engine vibration to avoid constant shaking while the engine is running.
When one of them malfunctions, you’ll feel excess vibration during your drive, and slight shaking when you’re idling. Keep in mind that one broken motor mount can take a toll on the other mounts, eventually causing them to fail as well. Replacing the affected mount is the best solution.
- Bent axle
A bent axle could also be the culprit when your car shakes on acceleration. This usually happens after you hit a curb or a large rock, or you get into a minor accident. Get a new axle to avoid further damage.
- Worn or dirty spark plugs
Dirty or worn-out spark plugs can result in an engine misfire, and that’s probably the reason why your car shakes when you drive. Remove one of your spark plugs and look for a dark buildup on the tip. If you spot it, there’s a huge chance that the rest of your plugs are just as bad, which means it’s time to replace them.
- Stuck brake caliper
A steering wheel that shakes at speeds between 40 and 50 mph could indicate a stuck brake caliper. Carefully inspect all parts of your vehicle’s brake system on each wheel, particularly the caliper bolts, piston, and slides. Any failed brake components should be replaced.
Don’t Know What to Do with Your Troublesome Car?
No matter how durable they may be, all cars are subject to wear and tear. Even if you take good care of your car, it will eventually show signs of aging. If you have an auto that you no longer feel safe driving because of some component issues, don’t just leave it in your garage to collect dust. You might as well set it free and give it a worthy purpose.
When you hand over that vehicle to us at Veteran Car Donations, we’ll use it to improve the living conditions of the suffering veterans in your local community.
Our team will put your vehicle up for auction, with the proceeds going to our veteran-focused nonprofit partners. Like us, these IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to serving veterans who are homeless and unable to find decent jobs as well as those suffering from disabilities and serious illnesses, including mental health conditions.
Our nonprofit partners use the funding we give them to provide their beneficiaries with housing and financial assistance, employment and livelihood opportunities, family support, free quality health care and medical treatment, psychotherapy services, and other services meant to uplift their lives.
Donating to us is quick and easy. We won’t hassle you with unnecessary steps or complicated paperwork. All you have to do is contact us.
You also won’t go home empty-handed after making your donation. You’ll receive valuable rewards such as the free and fast towing of your unwanted vehicle anywhere in the country.
Your charitable contribution will also entitle you to receive the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.
More importantly, your act of charity will leave you feeling fully satisfied, knowing that you’re helping transform the lives of the heroes residing in your locality.
We accept not just cars but almost all other types of vehicles, including those that are no longer in good condition.
To learn more about Veteran Car Donations, including our quick and easy donation process, check out our FAQs page. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to call us anytime through our toll-free hotline at 877-594-5822 or message us here.
Help Transform the Lives of Our Suffering Heroes Today!
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We owe our lives and liberty to our veterans who put their lives on the line to fight for our country. Now is a good time as any to return the favor. Your car donation can make a difference in the lives of the suffering heroes in your community. Call Veteran Car Donations at 877-594-5822 or fill out our secure online donation form now!
Last Updated: May 8th, 2023