November 15, 2022

If your vehicle begins to vibrate when you accelerate, it’s usually a red flag that something’s off. In this article, we’ll explore the most frequent causes behind this issue and how to address them. Whether the problem lies with your tires, engine components or brake system, we’ll help you identify what’s going on. Some fixes are simple enough to tackle on your own, while others call for professional service. Understanding the warning signs can protect your wallet, enhance your safety and prevent more serious trouble in the future. Let’s break it down.

It is not unusual for your car to shake when you accelerate, especially if it is older or hasn’t had regular maintenance. This shaking might mean there is a bigger issue. If you ignore it, parts of your car could get damaged. This can also create a safety risk while you drive. To learn more about accepted vehicles, check out Veteran Car Donations vehicles accepted.

When you notice your car shaking as you speed up, take it to a mechanic you trust right away. Fixing the problem early can save you a lot of money. If you wait, the issue might get worse and cost even more to fix. If you want help donating your old car, visit Veteran Car Donations donate.

It helps to know what might be causing your car to shake. This way, you can check for problems yourself. Some fixes are simple enough to do on your own. Doing small repairs yourself can save you money.

What causes your car to shake when you speed up? Veteran Car Donations lists seven common reasons you should know about:

1. Uneven tires

If your car starts shaking after new tires were installed, the tires might not be balanced. Shaking that happens at steady speeds and gets worse as you go faster often means unbalanced tires, which could lead to uneven tire wear. You should visit a tire shop to have them balanced or replaced.

2. Broken inner CV joint

Check your car’s inner CV joint if you feel shaking while driving. This part is at the end of the axle. A damaged CV joint can cause vibrations when you press the gas hard. If it gets worse, the shaking can become very strong, especially when your car carries weight. The fix is to replace the broken CV joint.

3. Loose lug nuts

Loose nuts on your wheels can also make your car wobble when you speed up. If you do not fix your wheel bearings fast, it can become very dangerous. You might even lose a wheel while driving. Use a torque wrench to tighten lug nuts to the right level. If you don’t have one, a regular lug nut wrench works fine.

4. Bad motor mount

Motor mounts hold your car’s engine in place. They also help reduce engine vibrations. This stops your car from shaking too much when the engine runs.

If a motor mount breaks, you will feel extra vibrations while driving. You might even notice shaking when the car is idling. One broken mount can cause others to wear out faster. The best fix is to replace the damaged motor mount.

5. Bent axle

A bent axle can cause shaking when you accelerate. This can happen if you hit a curb, a rock, or have a minor accident. Replace the bent axle to stop the shaking and avoid more damage.

6. Worn or dirty spark plugs

Old or dirty spark plugs can cause your engine to misfire. This can make your car shake. Take out a spark plug and check its tip. If you see dark buildup, the other plugs are likely dirty too. It’s time to replace them all.

7. Stuck brake caliper

If your steering wheel shakes between 40 and 50 mph, it could mean a brake caliper is stuck. Check the brake system on each wheel, especially the caliper bolts, piston and slides. Replace any parts that are not working properly.

If you’ve already inspected your tires, engine mounts, axles and spark plugs, be sure not to ignore your driveshaft and transmission mounts. These components are often missed during troubleshooting but can be major culprits behind excessive vibration, especially when they’re worn out or out of alignment. An unbalanced or loose driveshaft, which is common in rear- and all-wheel-drive vehicles, can cause the entire vehicle to shake during acceleration. If it’s safe to do so, get underneath your car and look for dents in the driveshaft or greasy areas that may indicate failing universal joints (U-joints).

Additionally, don’t skip checking the transmission fluid. Low or dirty fluid can cause rough shifting and result in shuddering when the vehicle is under strain. It’s also wise to think back to any recent repairs. A part that was improperly installed or slightly misaligned could be the source of the issue. Mentioning recent work to your mechanic could speed up diagnosis and reduce labor costs. Keeping track of the symptoms, including any unusual noises and when they occur, can also make troubleshooting more efficient.

Don’t Know What to Do with Your Troublesome Car?

All cars wear out over time, no matter how well you care for them. Eventually, parts will fail, and your car may not feel safe to drive. If that happens, don’t just let it sit in your garage. You can give it new life by donating it for a good cause. Learn how to donate your vehicle.

When you donate your car to Veteran Car Donations, we turn it into help for veterans in your area. Your gift supports programs that improve their lives.

We auction your donated vehicle. The money goes to our veteran nonprofits. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) groups help homeless veterans, those with disabilities and veterans fighting serious illnesses like mental health issues. Learn more about our nonprofit partners.

The nonprofits use the funds to offer veterans housing, money help, job training, family support, free health care, therapy and other important services. These programs aim to lift veterans up.

Donating your car to us is fast and simple. We keep it easy with no extra steps or confusing forms. Just get in touch with us to start. Visit our contact page anytime.

When you donate, you get great benefits. We tow your vehicle for free, quickly, no matter where you are in the country.

Your donation can also give you the biggest tax deduction allowed. For details, check out our tax credits vs tax deductions page.

Most of all, you will feel good knowing you helped local veterans. Your gift changes lives right in your community.

We accept nearly all vehicles, not just cars. Even if your vehicle is not running well, you can still donate it.

Want to know more about Veteran Car Donations or how to donate? Visit our FAQs. You can also call us anytime at 877-594-5822 or send us a message on our contact page.

Help Transform the Lives of Our Suffering Heroes Today!

Our veterans risk everything to protect our freedom. Now it is your chance to give back. Donating your car can help heroes in your community who need it most. Call Veteran Car Donations at 877-594-5822 or use our secure online donation form today.

Last Updated: June 23rd, 2025