We’re used to bringing a vehicle to a stop and hardly noticing the engine’s even running when we’re sitting still.  But sometimes you might notice it running rough when you’re idling.  Your vehicle is shaking, vibrating and making sputtering noises.  You may even notice the tachometer on your instrument panel is showing the engine’s RPMs are moving all over the place.  

Rough engines can be caused by a whole lot of different things.  One possibility is a problem with your fuel system.  You might have a fuel pump going bad, or a clogged fuel filter is restricting your fuel’s pressure. Maybe your fuel injectors have gotten plugged or dirty.  

Maybe it’s something wrong with your ignition system.  Your spark plugs may be on their last legs or the plug wires may be worn out.  The ignition coils which create sparks at your cylinders may be failing.  

Another thing that can cause an engine to run rough can be problems with getting adequate air to it.  Your engine air filter may be obstructed. Modern engines have a lot of sensors that tell the engine’s computers how to adjust fuel and timing, and some of those sensors might have seen better days.

There can be serious mechanical issues with your engine, such as worn piston rings, a leaky head gasket or bad valves.  Your timing belt could also be the problem.  

And, remember when your Check Engine light comes on, it can signal it’s detected something wrong in the way the engine’s components are working together. 

Your engine should be smooth and quiet when you’re sitting at a stop light.  If it’s not, head on over to let one of our technicians track down the problem.  We can have you back to being a smooth operator in no time.

Sterling Tire & Auto
34701 Van Dyke Rd
Sterling Heights, Michigan 48312
586-264-7775

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