• Misfiring Engine: A misfiring engine is often the cause of shaking in a vehicle. If one or more of the cylinders isn't firing properly, it can create an imbalance in the engine that causes it to shake. This can be due to a variety of issues such as ignition issues, fuel injector problems, or mechanical wear.
• Vacuum Leak: A vacuum leak can also cause your car to shake. Vacuum leaks draw unmetered air into the engine, which can lean out the air/fuel mixture and cause the engine to run rough. This can create vibrations that cause the car to shake. Common causes of vacuum leaks include cracked or torn vacuum hoses, gaskets, or seals.
• Fuel Delivery Issues: Fuel delivery issues such as a clogged fuel filter or faulty fuel pump can also cause engine shaking. A lack of fuel pressure can prevent the engine from running smoothly, resulting in a shaking sensation.
• Damaged Motor or Transmission Mounts: Motor mounts and transmission mounts hold the engine and transmission in place. If these mounts are damaged or worn out, they can't effectively dampen the vibrations from the engine, causing the car to shake.
• Torque Converter Issues: If your Kia Sportage has an automatic transmission, a faulty torque converter may also be the cause of the shaking. The torque converter transfers power from the engine to the transmission, and if it is malfunctioning, it can create vibrations that shake the car.
*These are just some of the most common causes of shaking with the check engine light flashing in a 2001 Kia Sportage. You should also take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic or your local dealership for diagnostic testing to determine the exact cause of the issue