Common Acura Issue: Engine Shakes

Make: Acura | Model Example: 2016 RLX | Avg. Mileage: 76740 | Job Number: 586962

Repair Issue:

Engine Shakes

Cause:

Automatic Transmission Fluid – Ignition Coil(s) – Spark Plug(s) – Variable Timing Lift Control (VTEC) Rocker Arm Pistons – Variable Timing Lift Control (VTEC) Rocker Arm Springs

Customer Concern:

The engine will shake when it shifts into 2nd gear on acceleration and counts misfires. The EGR has been blocked and the fuel trims are normal. All the numbers look good on the scan tool. No codes ever set in the Engine Control Module (ECM) or transmission.

Test/Procedure:

1. Test the ignition coils and spark plugs.
2. Check if the symptom is possibly transmission related. Try flushing the automatic transmission and see if the symptom goes away.
3. See if the condition only occurs in variable cylinder mode or if the engine is still in 6 cylinder mode. Listen for noise from the valve train indicating a Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) issue.

Important Take-A-Way:

This archive directs technicians to look at the transmission as a possible culprite which many may no look at. Many techs would spend a lot of time focusing on engine related issues considering the scanner is showing misfire counts.

Most Popular Fix:

Replaced/Flushed Automatic Transmission Fluid

Other Common Car Problems:

View more common car problems from the most popular manufactures including Ford, Dodge, Chevrolet, Honda, Toyota, and more. Read more

Also applies to the following Makes and Models:

2017 ES350 3.5, 2011 tC 2.5, 2012 tC 2.5, 2013 tC 2.5, 2016 Avalon 3.5, 2012 Camry 2.5, 2013 Camry 2.5, 2014 Camry 2.5, 2015 Camry 2.5, 2016 Camry 2.5, 2012 RAV4 2.5

Author: Wayne Pasicznyk

Wayne became interested in working on cars while in high school, so he enrolled in the automotive program in his hometown of Dickinson, ND. After completing tech school through ND State College of Science, he began his career at a Honda/Mazda dealership, which also acquired a Toyota franchise during Wayne’s 15-year tenure with them. Wayne has been at Identifix since 2000. His education also includes many factory training classes for Honda, Mazda, and Toyota vehicles; Wayne is an ASE Master Technician, and holds ASE Alternate Fuel Technician certificates. He spends his time outside of work with his 3 granddaughters, and enjoys golfing when he’s not with family.

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