1. Engine Misfire: One possibility is that your car is experiencing an engine misfire. This means that one or more of the cylinders in your engine is not firing properly, causing the engine to shake.
2. Ignition Coil: Failure or malfunctioning ignition coil could also lead to misfiring and shaking.
3. Spark Plugs: Old, worn-out, or damaged spark plugs can also cause misfiring, resulting in shaking and illuminating the check engine light.
4. Fuel Injector Issues: Issues like stuck or clogged fuel injectors can affect the proper fuel delivery to the cylinders, leading to shaking and check engine light illumination.
5. Transmission Problems: In some cases, a shaking car accompanied by a check engine light could be a result of transmission issues, such as slipping gears or low transmission fluid.
6. Engine Mount Issues: Worn-out or damaged engine mounts may not hold the engine securely in place, leading to shaking and vibrations.
7. Oxygen Sensor Problems: A faulty or malfunctioning oxygen sensor can affect the air-fuel mixture and cause the car to run poorly.
8. Vacuum Leak: A vacuum leak in the engine compartment can cause rough idling and shaking.
9. Catalytic Converter Issues: A clogged or damaged catalytic converter can restrict the exhaust flow and cause the car to shake and illuminate the check engine light.
10. Electrical Issues: Some electrical problems, such as a faulty alternator, can lead to shaking and check engine light illumination.
It is important to note that these are just a few of the possible causes, and the exact issue might vary depending on your car's make, model, and specific circumstances. If you encounter these symptoms, it's crucial to have your car diagnosed by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to identify the root cause and prevent any further damage to the vehicle.