Van shaking at stop lights

2005 FORD FREESTAR
128,840 MILES • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
LORI ANN STOCKS
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Whenever I pull up to a stop sign or stop light it shakes and feels like it is going shut off. Also, when I first start up my van thick white smoke comes from the exhaust pipe.
Feb 7, 2017 at 3:17 PM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.
Advertisement
Avatar
CARADIODOC
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 34,308 POSTS
The shaking is typical of a misfire, most commonly due to worn spark plugs or lack of scheduled tune-ups. White smoke is a sign of burning engine coolant due to a leaking cylinder head gasket. The clue is the level will be dropping in the coolant reservoir. That leakage can also cause a misfire if it is bad enough.
Feb 7, 2017 at 3:50 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
LORI ANN STOCKS
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
So I basically need new spark plugs and a tune up?
Feb 7, 2017 at 4:17 PM
Avatar
STEVE W.
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 15,146 POSTS
Not if it is burning coolant as the smoke suggests. Have the cooling system pressure tested. If it does not hold pressure it could be bad head gasket(s) or a crack in a head or block.
Feb 8, 2017 at 5:00 AM