Check Engine Light is on, and the car is shaking?

2000 TOYOTA SIENNA
160,000 MILES • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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MICHAELIU
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
The check engine light is on but it’s not flashing. It has a weak ignition, so when I started the engine, its power was not that strong. And when I hit the accelerator slightly the car shakes but if I hit it strong and the speed comes up, it doesn’t shake. In addition, when I hit the brake and the speed goes down it starts to shake again. What is more, the battery is old.
Aug 29, 2023 at 8:11 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

You need to start by having the computer scanned for diagnostic trouble codes. Since the light is on, there will be codes stored. Here is a link that explains how it's done.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/can-scan-controller-area-network-easy

Also, most parts stores will scan the computer for you free of charge, so have that done.

Next, often times a rough idle is caused by an engine vacuum leak. I would check to see if you can locate any.

Here is a link that explains how to do it:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-an-engine-vacuum-gauge

Let me know if you have already tried these two things. If you have and have codes, let me know what they are.

Take care,

Joe
Aug 29, 2023 at 12:37 PM
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