Why Does My Car Shake When I Brake

Why Does My Car Shake When I Brake

If you’ve ever been driving down the road and noticed that your car starts to shake or vibrate when you hit the brakes, it can be a very unsettling experience. Not only does it feel like something is wrong with your vehicle, but it can also be a safety concern. So why does your car shake when you brake? Here’s what you need to know.

#1 – Worn Brake Pads

One of the most common reasons for a car to shake when you brake is due to worn brake pads. When your brake pads are worn down, they may not be able to stop your car as effectively as they should. This can cause the brakes to vibrate and shake as they try to slow down the vehicle.

If you notice that your brake pads are worn down, it’s important to get them replaced as soon as possible. Not only will this help to stop the shaking and vibration, but it will also ensure that your car is able to stop properly when you need it to.

#2 – Warped Brake Rotors

Another reason your car may shake when you brake is due to warped brake rotors. The brake rotors are the discs that your brake pads press against in order to stop your car. If these rotors become warped or damaged, they may not be able to function properly, leading to shaking and vibration when you brake.

If you suspect that your brake rotors are the cause of the shaking, it’s important to have them checked out by a mechanic. They may need to be replaced in order to fix the issue.

#3 – Out-of-Balance Tires

Your car’s tires can also cause shaking and vibration when you brake if they are out-of-balance. When a tire is out-of-balance, it means that it is not evenly weighted around the circumference of the tire. This can cause the tire to vibrate and shake as it rotates, leading to a shaking sensation when you brake.

To fix this issue, you’ll need to have your tires balanced by a mechanic. They’ll use specialized equipment to ensure that the weight of the tire is evenly distributed around the circumference.

#4 – Uneven Wear on Tires

In addition to being out-of-balance, your tires can also cause shaking and vibration when they are wearing unevenly. This can be due to a number of different factors, such as misaligned wheels or uneven road surfaces.

If you notice that one or more of your tires is wearing more quickly than the others, it’s important to get them replaced as soon as possible. Not only will this help to stop the shaking and vibration when you brake, but it will also ensure that your car is driving as safely as possible.

#5 – Loose Parts on the Suspension

If your car’s suspension is not functioning properly, it can also cause shaking and vibration when you brake. The suspension system is what helps to keep your car stable and smooth as you drive, and if any of the parts are loose or damaged, it can lead to a rough ride.

To fix this issue, you’ll need to have your suspension checked out by a mechanic. They’ll be able to identify any loose or damaged parts and replace them as needed.

#6 – Other Factors

There are a number of other factors that can contribute to shaking and vibration when you brake, such as:

• Worn or damaged wheel bearings
• A faulty brake booster
• A damaged steering system

If you’ve checked all of the above items and are still experiencing shaking and vibration when you brake, it’s a good idea to have a mechanic take a look at your car to identify the root cause of the issue. They’ll be able to diagnose and fix any other problems that may be causing the shaking and vibration.

Conclusion

If your car shakes when you brake, it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible. Not only is it a safety concern, but it can also lead to further damage to your vehicle if left unaddressed. By following the steps outlined above, you should be able to identify the root cause of the shaking and take the necessary steps to fix it. Whether it’s worn brake pads, warped brake rotors, or something else, it’s important to get the issue fixed in order to keep your car driving smoothly and safely.