* Spark Plugs and Wires: Worn-out spark plugs or damaged ignition wires can cause misfires, leading to shaking, poor acceleration, and the check engine light. This is a relatively inexpensive and easy fix.
* Coil Packs: If one or more coil packs (which deliver electricity to the spark plugs) are failing, you'll experience similar symptoms to bad spark plugs. A faulty coil pack can cause misfires in a specific cylinder.
* Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) Sensor: This sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine. A dirty or faulty MAF sensor can provide inaccurate readings, leading to a lean or rich fuel mixture, resulting in poor performance, shaking, and the check engine light. Cleaning it (carefully, following instructions) might solve the problem, but replacement might be necessary.
* Oxygen Sensor (O2 Sensor): The O2 sensor monitors the exhaust gases to help regulate the air-fuel mixture. A faulty O2 sensor can lead to poor fuel economy, rough running, and the check engine light.
* Throttle Position Sensor (TPS): This sensor tells the engine control unit (ECU) the throttle position. A faulty TPS can cause erratic idling, poor acceleration, and the check engine light.
* Catalytic Converter: A clogged catalytic converter can restrict exhaust flow, leading to decreased power, rough running, and the check engine light. This is a more expensive repair.
* Engine Mounts: Worn engine mounts can cause excessive vibration and shaking, especially noticeable when accelerating.
What to do:
1. Get the Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs): The check engine light stores codes that indicate the specific problem(s). You can use an OBD-II scanner (available at auto parts stores) to read these codes. This will greatly narrow down the possibilities.
2. Consult a Mechanic: Based on the DTCs, a qualified mechanic can diagnose the problem accurately and recommend the best course of action. Don't guess and replace parts randomly; this is expensive and might not solve the issue.
3. Don't Ignore it: Continued driving with these symptoms could cause further damage to your engine.
The shaking and poor acceleration strongly suggest a misfire or a problem with the fuel/air mixture. Getting the diagnostic codes is the first crucial step to finding a solution.
