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Why does my Ford Focus shake while driving?

If your Ford Focus is shaking while driving, it could be due to a variety of issues, including problems with the tires, suspension, or engine. The shaking can be caused by both mechanical and electrical problems, and it's important to identify the root cause to fix the issue properly.


Common Causes of Shaking in a Ford Focus


Here are some of the most common reasons why a Ford Focus may shake while driving:



  • Unbalanced or Worn Tires: Tires that are out of balance or have uneven wear can cause the vehicle to shake, especially at higher speeds. This can be caused by issues with the tire itself or problems with the wheel alignment or suspension.

  • Worn Suspension Components: Worn or damaged suspension parts, such as shocks, struts, or ball joints, can allow the vehicle to move excessively, leading to shaking.

  • Engine Problems: Issues with the engine, such as misfiring cylinders, can cause the entire vehicle to shake. This could be due to problems with the spark plugs, ignition coils, or other engine components.

  • Transmission Issues: Problems with the transmission, such as worn gears or a malfunctioning torque converter, can also cause shaking while driving.


If you're experiencing shaking in your Ford Focus, it's important to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic to identify the root cause and get the issue resolved.


Diagnosing and Fixing Shaking in a Ford Focus


To diagnose the cause of the shaking, a mechanic will typically start by inspecting the tires and suspension components. They may also perform a test drive to observe the shaking and identify any patterns or triggers. Depending on the findings, they may recommend replacing worn parts, balancing the tires, or addressing any engine or transmission issues.


It's important to address the shaking issue promptly, as it can be a sign of more serious underlying problems that could lead to further damage or safety concerns if left unresolved.

How do I fix my car from shaking while driving?


Shaking Car? Here's What You Should Do.

  1. Check tire pressure – Low tire pressure can cause your car to shake and sway.
  2. Inspect the tires – Check your tires for signs of damage, such as cuts or punctures.
  3. Check the suspension – A damaged or worn-out suspension can cause your car to shake while driving.



Can you still drive with bad motor mounts?


While you may not have to pull over right away and call a tow truck, you should address a bad motor mount as soon as possible. The longer you drive with bad motor mounts, the more they will deteriorate. If left unchecked, bad motor mounts can fail completely, further damaging the engine and driveline.



How do I know if my Ford Focus motor mount is bad?


A worn engine mount can often lead to 'clunks' and 'bangs' within its surroundings or within the engine bay. This noise is due to the engine moving around more than normal and making contact with other components, which in turn can cause impact sounds that become quite noticeable.



Is there a recall on the transmission shudder on the Ford Focus?


Ford issued the recall to address the TCM defect in Ford Focus 2012-2018 models. The recall might affect any Ford vehicle with a DPS6 clutch or Powershift transmission. The announcement came after many complaints from owners experiencing problems with their cars jerking, stalling, and having trouble shifting gears.



What years did Ford Focus have bad transmission problems?


CINCINNATI (Howard Ain) -- Complaints about the operation of two of the Ford Motor Company's top selling models prompted the company to make changes. The problem goes back three years and involves the transmissions. It concerns the 2012, 13 and 14 Ford Focus and the Ford Fiesta.



What does transmission shudder feel like?


One of the most noticeable symptoms of torque converter shudder is vibrations or shaking while driving. These vibrations can be felt through the steering wheel, floorboard, or seat of the vehicle. The severity of the vibrations may vary depending on the extent of the shudder and the speed of the vehicle.



Why is my Ford shaking when driving?


This issue typically stems from a driveshaft problem, necessitating either a rebalance or a replacement of the rear driveshaft. The service team will employ various vibration analyzers to identify the specific frequency of the vibration and associate it with a particular component such as the driveshaft.



What would cause a Ford Focus to shake?


Any unusual shaking or vibrating forces coming from the engine is cause for concern. It could be something as simple as old spark plugs producing an uneven power delivery, it could be something serious like worn or broken engine mounts, or it could be even more serious in the case of internal engine damage.



Can low oil cause a car to shake?


If your car vibrates while idling, the fix may be as simple as getting an oil change. Of course, it's a good idea to mention the vibrations to your mechanic and rule out any other problems.



What does it mean when your car feels shaky while driving?


Vibration is usually caused by an out of balance or defective tire, a bent wheel or a worn driveline U-joint. You may find that the car shakes the car in an up and down motion. You may feel vibration through the seat, the steering wheel or even in the brake pedal.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.