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Why Is My Car Shaking When Accelerating?

  • Writer: Tyler Ellis
    Tyler Ellis
  • Aug 4
  • 2 min read

Why Your Car Might Be Shaking When Accelerating

If your car feels smooth at idle but begins to shake or vibrate as you press the gas, it’s a sign that something isn’t working properly. Many drivers ask, “Why is my car shaking when accelerating?”, and the reasons can range from minor tire problems to drivetrain or engine issues.

At Round Rock Auto Center, we find and fix the causes of acceleration shaking so you can get back to driving with confidence.


Common Causes of Shaking During Acceleration

A shake that shows up only when you accelerate is usually linked to tires, suspension, or drivetrain components. Common causes include:

  • Unbalanced or damaged tires – A bent wheel or uneven tread can cause shaking when you put power down.

  • Worn CV joints or axles – If these parts are worn, they may cause vibration that gets worse with speed.

  • Engine misfires – Bad spark plugs, coils, or injectors can cause the engine to stumble and shake under load.

  • Driveshaft or U-joint problems – On rear-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles, failing joints can cause strong vibration.

  • Transmission issues – Slipping or jerking during shifts can feel like shaking while accelerating.

  • Motor mounts – Broken or worn mounts allow the engine to move excessively, causing vibrations.


Sign with blue icons of a person and a car, both waving. Text reads "halen en brengen." Cloudy sky background.
Why Is My Car Shaking When Accelerating?

How to Narrow Down the Cause

Clues that can help identify the problem:

  • Shaking only at certain speeds? Often tire or wheel related.

  • Shaking worse on turns? Could be CV joints or axles.

  • Shaking with reduced power? Likely engine misfires.

  • Clunking with vibration? Points to drivetrain components.


Why You Should Fix It Quickly

If your car shakes while accelerating, ignoring it can:

  • Lead to premature tire or suspension wear.

  • Cause drivetrain damage if joints or mounts fail completely.

  • Leave you stranded if the problem escalates.

  • Create unsafe driving conditions, especially at higher speeds.


How We Fix Acceleration Shaking at Round Rock Auto Center

When you bring your vehicle to Round Rock Auto Center, we:

  1. Test drive to replicate the vibration.

  2. Inspect wheels, tires, and alignment.

  3. Check CV joints, axles, and driveshafts.

  4. Test ignition and fuel systems for misfires.

  5. Repair or replace faulty parts and re-test.


Get Back to Smooth Acceleration

If you’ve been wondering why your car is shaking when accelerating, don’t wait until it gets worse. Contact Round Rock Auto Center today for a professional inspection and repair so you can drive smoothly and safely.

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Our Services

- Brake & Rotor Services

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Saturday: Closed. Pickups/Drop-offs only

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2003 Brushy Creek Rd.

Round Rock, TX 78664

512-308-6347

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