Why-does-my-car-shake-when-I-brake-faqwiki

Driving a car is a complex activity that involves multiple systems and components working together. When something goes wrong, it can be challenging to determine the cause. One of the most common problems drivers experience is car shaking when braking. This issue can be caused by several factors, including warped brake rotors, worn-out brake pads, caliper problems, and suspension issues. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore each of these causes in detail and provide practical tips on how to fix them.

Common Causes of Car Shaking When Braking

Warped Brake Rotors

Brake rotors are an essential component of the braking system that help to slow down or stop the car’s wheels. They are attached to the wheel hub and are subjected to a tremendous amount of heat and pressure during braking. Over time, this can cause the rotors to become warped, resulting in car shaking when braking.

Warped brake rotors occur when the metal material on the rotor expands unevenly due to excessive heat. This can cause the rotor to become misshapen, making it difficult for the brake pads to make even contact with the rotor’s surface. This can result in uneven braking and car shaking.

Signs of warped brake rotors include a vibrating or pulsating sensation when applying the brakes, a wobbling sensation in the steering wheel, and a noticeable reduction in braking power. If you suspect that your brake rotors are warped, it is essential to get them inspected and replaced by a professional mechanic.

Worn-out Brake Pads

Brake pads are the part of the braking system that actually makes contact with the brake rotor to slow down or stop the car’s wheels. Over time, brake pads wear down and need to be replaced. If the brake pads become too worn, they can cause car shaking when braking.

Signs of worn-out brake pads include a screeching or grinding noise when applying the brakes, a longer stopping distance, and a vibration or pulsation in the brake pedal. If you suspect that your brake pads are worn, it is essential to get them replaced by a professional mechanic.

Caliper Problems

Brake calipers are the part of the braking system that applies pressure to the brake pads to slow down or stop the car’s wheels. If the calipers become stuck or fail to apply even pressure to the brake pads, it can cause car shaking when braking.

Signs of caliper problems include uneven wear on the brake pads, a burning smell when driving, and a reduction in braking power. If you suspect that your brake calipers are the cause of the car shaking when braking, it is essential to get them inspected and replaced by a professional mechanic.

Suspension Issues

The suspension system of a car is responsible for maintaining a smooth and comfortable ride by absorbing bumps and vibrations on the road. If there are issues with the suspension system, it can cause car shaking when braking.

Signs of suspension issues include a bumpy or rough ride, a bouncing sensation when driving over bumps, and uneven tire wear. If you suspect that your suspension system is the cause of the car shaking when braking, it is essential to get it inspected and repaired by a professional mechanic.

Other Possible Causes of Car Shaking When Braking

In addition to the common causes of car shaking when braking, there are several other possible culprits. These include:

Tires

Tires are an essential component of a car’s handling and braking performance. If the tires are worn, improperly inflated, or unbalanced, it can cause car shaking when braking.

Signs of tire problems that can cause car shaking when braking include uneven wear on the tires, a vibrating sensation when driving at high speeds, and a pulling sensation to one side when braking. If you suspect that your tires are causing the car shaking when braking, it is essential to get them inspected and replaced if necessary.

Wheel Alignment

If the wheels on your car are misaligned, it can cause uneven wear on the tires and affect the handling and braking performance of the car. This can cause car shaking when braking.

Signs of wheel alignment problems include uneven wear on the tires, a pulling sensation to one side when driving, and a vibration or shaking sensation when driving at high speeds. If you suspect that your wheel alignment is causing the car shaking when braking, it is essential to get it inspected and corrected by a professional mechanic.

Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is an essential component of the braking system that helps to transmit pressure from the brake pedal to the brake calipers. If the brake fluid is contaminated or low, it can cause problems with the braking system, including car shaking when braking.

Signs of brake fluid problems include a spongy or soft brake pedal, a longer stopping distance, and a burning smell when driving. If you suspect that your brake fluid is causing the car shaking when braking, it is essential to get it inspected and replaced if necessary.

Axle Issues

If there are problems with the car’s axles, it can affect the handling and braking performance of the car, resulting in car shaking when braking.

Signs of axle problems include a clicking or popping noise when turning, a grinding noise when driving, and a vibration or shaking sensation when driving at high speeds. If you suspect that your axles are causing the car shaking when braking, it is essential to get them inspected and repaired by a professional mechanic.

How to Fix Car Shaking When Braking?

Fixing car shaking when braking will depend on the cause of the problem. If the issue is with the brake rotors, brake pads, or calipers, it may be necessary to replace these components. If the issue is with the suspension, tires, or wheel alignment, it may be necessary to adjust or replace these components.

In general, it is essential to get car shaking when braking inspected by a professional mechanic to diagnose the root cause of the problem and determine the best course of action. Attempting to fix the issue without proper knowledge or tools can result in further damage to the car and compromise safety.

Conclusion

Car shaking when braking can be a frustrating and concerning problem for drivers. However, by understanding the common causes of the issue and taking steps to address them, it is possible to fix the problem and ensure safe and smooth driving. If you are experiencing car shaking when braking, it is essential to get your car inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose and fix the problem.

FAQs

What causes car shaking when braking?

  • Car shaking when braking can be caused by several factors, including warped brake rotors, worn-out brake pads, caliper problems, suspension issues, tire problems, wheel alignment issues, brake fluid problems, and axle issues.

How do I fix car shaking when braking?

  • Fixing car shaking when braking will depend on the cause of the problem. It is essential to get the car inspected by a professional mechanic to diagnose the root cause of the problem and determine the best course of action.

Can I drive with car shaking when braking?

  • It is not recommended to drive with car shaking when braking, as this can compromise safety and cause further damage to the car. It is essential to get the issue diagnosed and fixed by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.