You expect a smooth stop when you apply pressure to the brake pedal while driving. If your vehicle’s brakes are in good condition and functioning properly, a smooth stop is exactly what should happen. So what does it mean when the car shakes when you brake? What could be the problem (or problems) that cause such a thing to occur? At Elmer’s Auto Body of South Jersey, we understand the importance of maintaining your vehicle’s safety and performance. Here are ten common reasons why your car might shake when you brake and what you can do about it.
Key Takeaways
- The 10 reasons your car shakes when braking are: warped rotors, worn pads, unbalanced wheels, suspension issues, brake caliper problems, misaligned wheels, tire issues, brake fluid problems, wheel bearing wear, and uneven brake deposits.
- These issues can be resolved by: replacing rotors and pads, balancing and aligning wheels, fixing suspension components, maintaining calipers, checking tire condition, replacing brake fluid, and cleaning or resurfacing brake pads and rotors.
Warped Brake Rotors
Warped brake rotors are a common cause of shaking when braking. Excessive heat from frequent or hard braking can cause the rotors to become uneven. This uneven surface disrupts the smooth contact between the brake pads and rotors, leading to vibrations. You can prevent this by scheduling regular brake maintenance and replacing worn or damaged rotors as soon as possible.
Worn Brake Pads
Worn or unevenly worn brake pads can also cause shaking during braking. As the pads wear down, they may fail to make consistent contact with the rotors, resulting in vibrations. Regularly checking and replacing brake pads according to the manufacturer’s recommendations helps ensure a smooth braking experience and prevents excessive wear.
Unbalanced Wheels
Unbalanced wheels are another factor that can cause shaking, particularly at higher speeds. Imbalances can stem from uneven tire wear or incorrect wheel alignment. Regular balancing and alignment of your wheels are essential to maintaining vehicle stability and preventing vibrations when braking.
Suspension Problems
Issues with your vehicle’s suspension system, such as worn shocks, struts, or bushings, can lead to instability and shaking during braking. A well-maintained suspension system ensures better handling and a smoother ride. A thorough inspection of the suspension can help identify and address any problems before they affect braking performance.
Brake Caliper Issues
A malfunctioning brake caliper can cause uneven braking and vibrations. The caliper’s role is to press the brake pads against the rotors, so any issues with its operation can lead to shaking. Regular checks of your brake system can help detect and resolve caliper issues before they impact braking efficiency.
Misaligned Wheels
Wheel misalignment can cause your vehicle to shake when braking, particularly if the misalignment is severe. Misaligned wheels affect handling and braking performance, leading to vibrations. Schedule routine alignment checks and adjustments are crucial to ensure that your wheels are properly aligned and to maintain smooth braking.
Tire Issues
Damaged tires, uneven wear, or improper inflation can contribute to shaking during braking. Tires in poor condition or not inflated to the recommended levels can disrupt the balance of the vehicle and cause vibrations. Focus on tire maintenance, including checking for damage, ensuring proper inflation, and rotating tires, can help prevent these issues.
Brake Fluid Problems
Low or contaminated brake fluid can affect the performance of your brakes and lead to vibrations. Brake fluid should be checked regularly and replaced as per your vehicle’s maintenance schedule to ensure proper brake function and to avoid issues that could cause shaking.
Wheel Bearing Wear
Worn or damaged wheel bearings can cause noticeable vibrations, especially when braking. Wheel bearings support the rotation of the wheels and contribute to vehicle stability. Inspection and timely replacement of worn bearings are essential to prevent shaking and maintain overall vehicle performance.
Uneven Brake Pad Deposits
Uneven deposits of brake pad material on the rotors can lead to vibrations when braking. This issue may arise from improper bedding of new pads or excessive heat during braking. Professional cleaning or resurfacing of the brake pads and rotors can address this problem and restore smooth braking.
What to Do About Car Shakes When Braking
Experiencing shaking or vibrations when braking can indicate several potential issues with your vehicle, which need prompt attention to ensure safety and performance. Start by scheduling a professional inspection to diagnose the problem, whether it involves brake pads, rotors, suspension, or tires. Worn or uneven brake pads, warped rotors, unbalanced wheels, or suspension issues are common culprits that can lead to shaking during braking.
Addressing these issues involves several steps: replace or resurface brake pads and rotors, balance and align wheels, inspect and repair suspension components, and check for tire damage. Additionally, ensure proper brake fluid levels and quality, and replace worn wheel bearings if necessary. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can prevent these problems and ensure a smoother, safer driving experience.
Contact an Auto Body Repair Shop in South Jersey Today
Experiencing shaking when braking is not only uncomfortable but can also signal serious issues with your vehicle. By understanding the potential causes and addressing them promptly, you can ensure a safer and smoother driving experience. Sometimes shaking brakes can be repaired by a mechanic at a regular shop, but if you notice this after a collision, please contact a collision repair specialist like Elmer’s Auto Body instead. Our skilled technicians are ready to diagnose and repair any issues to keep your vehicle in top condition. Schedule an appointment today and drive with confidence.