14 Causes of Car Engine Vibration When Idle & Their Solutions

In the previous discussion, we already learned about the causes of car engine vibration at low RPM. This time we will discuss the causes of car engine vibration when idle and how to overcome it. Therefore, read this post until the end.

The engine vibrating when the car is started for the first time is a common occurrence. However, if the car engine vibrates while idle, it indicates that there is a problem with the car engine. See below.

Factors Causing Car Engine Vibration When the Car is Idle

If you find that the car engine vibrates while idle, it is usually due to damage in the engine mounting. In addition, there are other causes as follows:

1. Damaged Spark Plug

The spark plugs in cars are different from those in motorcycles; cars have more spark plugs, so the engine can become unstable and even vibrate when one of the spark plugs is damaged. 

2. Incorrect Engine Tuning

Another cause is an error during engine tuning. This usually occurs because the technician is negligent or makes a mistake during the reassembly of components that were previously disassembled for repair or replacement of damaged components. 

3. Damaged Hood Rubber

Another cause is the damage to the hood rubber. Essentially, this rubber serves to dampen the car's vibrations, but if this rubber is worn out, it will be difficult to absorb the vibrations produced by the engine.

4. Issues with Engine Mount

Engine mount is a component that holds the engine's position so that it does not shift and remains stable when the car is moving fast.

However, if the car has been shaken hard, the grip strength will decrease. This will cause the engine to shift and vibrate.

5. Worn Piston

Next, this can also be caused by a worn piston due to frequently driving the car recklessly at high RPMs. 

6. Bent Wheel Rim

Another cause is a bent wheel rim. A bent rim can occur due to an accident or improper installation during car modification. As a result, the car's load cannot be properly supported while driving.

7. Worn Axle

The next cause of car engine vibration when idle is due to a worn axle. In addition to the rim, a worn axle makes the tire rotation imperfect. 

8. Worn Car Tires

The next cause is worn car tires. In addition to a worn axle, worn car tires can also cause the engine to vibrate even when the car is stationary.

The lifespan of car tires can be determined by the condition of the tires that are worn and need to be replaced. If worn tires are forced to be used, it will endanger the passengers in the car.

9. Problematic Propeller Shaft

The propeller shaft is usually used in cars with a rear-wheel drive system. If this component has issues, the car will not run smoothly even when traversing a straight path at low speed.

10. Fuel Distribution Issues

Another cause is due to fuel distribution issues, especially in injection cars. This problem usually occurs in cars that use an injection system.

11. Worn Clutch Plate

A worn clutch plate causes the flywheel surface to be uneven, resulting in engine vibration.

12. Thin Brake Pads

Thin brake pads are not only dangerous when used while braking the car, but they also cause the car engine to vibrate even when the car is stationary. 

13. Damaged AC Fan Rotor

Do you often experience engine vibration when the AC is turned on? This is due to a damaged AC fan rotor. If not addressed promptly, the AC fan's rotation will become abnormal, causing the car engine to vibrate.

14. Damaged Shock Absorber

Shock absorbers function to maintain balance and stability of the car while driving. If this component is damaged, the car engine will vibrate abnormally and the car will not run evenly. 

How to Overcome Car Engine Vibration When Idle

After knowing the causes mentioned above, here are the ways to overcome it.

1. Regularly Check Car Components

The first step is to check several car components to identify which components are problematic and damaged. 

Read Also: 4 Ways to Overcome a Car That Won't Start

2. Replace Damaged Components with New Ones

Next, you can replace components that are starting to wear out or are damaged, such as replacing spark plugs, hood rubber, tires, bent rims, brake pads, clutch plates, shock absorbers, axles, pistons, engine mounts, and AC fan motors with new components.

3. Periodic Service at Authorized Workshops

If the problem cannot be resolved independently, it is best to consult with an expert technician or periodically service your car at the nearest Daihatsu dealer.