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Why is my check engine light flashing and car shaking on my Toyota Corolla?

If your Toyota Corolla's check engine light is flashing and the car is shaking, it could indicate a serious problem that requires immediate attention. The flashing check engine light typically signifies an issue with the vehicle's engine or emissions system that needs to be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.


Potential Causes of a Flashing Check Engine Light and Shaking Car


There are several potential reasons why your Toyota Corolla's check engine light may be flashing and the car is shaking:



  • Misfiring engine: A misfiring engine is one of the most common causes of a flashing check engine light and shaking car. This can be due to issues with the spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors.

  • Catalytic converter failure: If the catalytic converter is failing, it can cause the check engine light to flash and the car to shake.

  • Loose or damaged engine components: Loose or damaged engine components, such as the engine mounts or timing belt, can also lead to a flashing check engine light and shaking car.

  • Fuel system problems: Issues with the fuel system, such as a clogged fuel filter or faulty fuel pump, can cause the engine to misfire and the check engine light to flash.


It's important to have the issue diagnosed and addressed as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your Toyota Corolla's engine and emissions system.


Steps to Diagnose and Fix the Issue


If your Toyota Corolla's check engine light is flashing and the car is shaking, here are the steps you should take:



  • Scan the vehicle's onboard diagnostics system: Use an OBD-II scanner to read the diagnostic trouble codes stored in the vehicle's computer. This will help identify the specific issue causing the check engine light to flash.

  • Inspect the engine and emissions system: Visually inspect the engine and emissions system components, such as the spark plugs, ignition coils, fuel injectors, and catalytic converter, for any signs of wear or damage.

  • Perform necessary repairs: Based on the diagnostic trouble codes and the visual inspection, have the necessary repairs performed by a qualified mechanic to address the underlying issue causing the check engine light to flash and the car to shake.

  • Reset the check engine light: After the repairs have been made, the check engine light should be reset to ensure it no longer illuminates.


By following these steps, you can diagnose and fix the issue causing your Toyota Corolla's check engine light to flash and the car to shake, helping to prevent further damage and ensure the vehicle's safe and reliable operation.

Why is my engine light flashing and my car running rough?


The most common cause is any defects in the ignition system. Another popular culprit is a faulty fuel system. These may involve swapping out pricier parts such as fuel injectors. The third possible explanation for engine misfires is an internal engine problem.



Why is my engine light blinking and my car jerking?


Car jerking is often due to the amount of fuel being supplied to the engine, so checking the fuel filter and fuel pump is a good place to start diagnosing. When a car has a faulty fuel pump your car will have a hard time maintaining the required amount of fuel needed for accelerating.



Can I drive my car with the check engine light blinking?


If your check engine light begins flashing, it is advised to pull over and have the vehicle inspected there or towed to a mechanic for diagnosis.



Why is my engine light flashing and car juddering?


If your car is juddering, your 'check engine' light may well be on or come on intermittently. However, it may not come on at all even though you are experiencing a judder. If your engine light is flashing and the car is juddering, it's best to get your car checked by a trained mechanic.



Why is my car sputtering and the engine light blinking?


Usually, when the check engine light is flashing and the car is sputtering and shaking, that means you're dealing with an engine misfire serious enough to possibly damage the catalytic converter and in most cases the PCM/ECM will kill the injector to prevent that.



Can I drive my car with the engine light flashing?


A flashing light indicates a more serious problem like an overheating engine or engine misfires, which can cause irreversible damage. If the check engine light is flashing, you should stop, turn off the car, and call for assistance.



Why is my car shaking and engine light flashing?


The shaking and flashing check engine light could be caused by a variety of issues, including: Engine misfire Spark plugs or wires problems Loose or damaged parts Clogged fuel injectors Ignition system issue It is recommended to get your car inspected by a mechanic to diagnose the problem and make necessary repairs.



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.



Why is my car jerking and shuddering?


There are a range of reasons why your car is juddering at speed. Your vehicle could have dirty fuel injectors, a damaged fuel pump, a blocked catalytic converter, a faulty mass airflow sensor, broken spark plugs, or even an accumulation of moisture.



Why is my check engine light flashing and my car struggling to accelerate?


If your check engine light is flashing, something is wrong with your engine. You need to pull over and shut it off as soon as it's safe to do so. The check engine light flashing when accelerating combined with white exhaust appearing and disappearing suggests a sticking fuel injector.


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.