Q: BMW 318i, car is shaking. Why?

asked by on October 03, 2016

Hi when I start my BMW 3 series 318i 2010 (automatic) the car shakes and the revs go up whilst in park mode. I get out of the car and the exhaust pipe is shaking. When I drive the car it stays stuck on the first gear for while until you hear a bang noise and the gear changes some times I have let go of the gas for it to go to the next gear. When I put the heating on or the AC the car sometimes starts to shake and the acceleration goes heavy too.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Car is shaking or vibrating Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hello, thanks for writing in. It sounds like you may have a serious internal engine issue, something may have come disconnected, or you have bad gas. I usually check the computer for codes first. If the computer is seeing a problem then it will be stored in a code and that will give direction to the issue. If there is nothing there then a visual inspection of the engine must be done followed by a compression test. If you need to have this looked at, consider YourMechanic, as a certified mechanic can come to your home or office to diagnose and repair this.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Are Cracked Hoses Repairable, or Should They Be Replaced?
Cracked hoses are unsafe (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/can-cracked-hoses-be-repaired-or-do-they-need-to-be-replaced) for the proper operation of your vehicle and should be replaced at your earliest convenience. There is no way to repair a worn hose, nor would you want to. Hoses are designed to transfer engine...
How do I sound the alarm with the wireless remote control?
You can use the wireless remote control system to sound your vehicle’s panic alarm. To sound the alarm, simply press and hold the alarm button on the wireless remote when you are within range of the vehicle. The alarm will...
Valve cover oil leaks
Thank you for your inquiry. The valve cover seal is a common failure item and generally and easy fix. In your case, the upper intake plenum/manifold wraps over the top of the engine and must be removed to complete the...
Won't drive forward only reverse
Hello...there is a fault in the transmission of course. However, check your transmission fluid level first. If fluid is REALLY low, you could have an issue like this. There is a mechanical linkage in play when you shift into drive....
My car cuts off when I slow down and shows code P0335
Hi there. Your vehicle shutting down while driving, after replacing a faulty CKP (crankshaft position sensor) and the ECM (engine control module) recognizing a P0335 circuit malfunction, leads me to believe the replacement CKP sensor may be faulty (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/crankshaft-position-sensor-replacement). Sometimes,...
Why is my steering wheel hard to turn and my EPS light on in my 2004 Mazda RX-8
Hi there. This is a common issue on your vehicle. Most of the time this is caused by a problem with the steering angle sensor. The sensor stops reading properly which causes the steering to act like this. There are...
Car runs rough with AC on
It sounds like you may have a bad AC compressor or potentially a faulty MAP Sensor. When the AC compressor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/ac-compressor-replacement) is beginning to fail, this may incur an increased load on the motor as it works harder than usual...
Hi i started my van this morning it was fine last night. And now it sound like a tractor it a Vauxhall vivaro its still running fi
You should check the oil levels in the engine first to see if it is low. If not low then check gauges to see if any oil pressure loss or other lights are on? If any lights are on then...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 BMW 6-Series
With With an eye-catching restyled exterior that still boasts the basic signature grille shape, the 2012 6-Series is packed with modern features while maintaining its classic image and top-of-the-line performance. Key Features 4-way adjustable suspension BMW apps – interface with...
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 BMW X6
The The X6 is a study in identity crises. While the sleek fastback styling and cozy interior suggest a sporty coupe, the hatchback and SUV platform speak to a weak attempt at imitating a wagon (without the roomy passenger capacity)....
How to Diagnose a Shaking Steering Wheel
An issue with your car's suspension or drive system will cause a shaking steering wheel. A tire and wheel out of balance can cause a vibration.