Repair instructions
5 Possible Reasons Why Your Car Shakes When Braking
Summary: If your car shakes or vibrates when braking, it’s typically a sign of an issue with the braking system or related components. The most common culprit is uneven brake rotors. However, other issues like worn brake drums, loose wheel bearings, damaged suspension parts, or worn brake pads can also cause shaking. This vibration can affect braking performance, compromising your safety. It’s crucial to address this issue promptly to maintain safe driving conditions.
Why Does My Car Shake When I Brake?
If your vehicle shakes or you feel a pulsating sensation when you press the brake pedal, it’s usually due to irregularities in your brake system. Here are five potential causes:
- Warped Brake Rotors (Excessive Lateral Runout or Thickness Variation)
The most common reason for shaking when braking is warped brake rotors. Brake rotors can become uneven over time, either through excessive lateral runout (wobbling) or thickness variation (some areas of the rotor being thicker than others). These irregularities prevent the brake pads from making even contact with the rotor, causing vibrations that you can feel in the brake pedal or steering wheel.
- Out-of-Round Brake Drums (for Drum Brakes)
If your vehicle is equipped with drum brakes on the rear wheels, worn or out-of-round brake drums could be the source of the shaking. Just like warped rotors, out-of-round drums cause uneven contact between the brake shoes and drum, resulting in a pulsating or shaking sensation when braking.
- Loose Wheel Bearings
Wheel bearings allow your wheels to rotate smoothly. When a wheel bearing becomes loose or damaged, it can cause excessive lateral runout in the wheel hub. This misalignment can lead to vibrations felt during braking, and in some cases, it can also cause abnormal wear on other brake components.
- Worn Suspension Components
In some cases, a faulty suspension system can contribute to shaking during braking. Worn-out struts, shocks, or control arms can cause instability in the vehicle’s handling, which is felt more acutely when braking. For example, in strut-based suspension systems, the brake rotor is mounted to the steering knuckle, so any issues with the suspension can lead to vibrations or shaking when you apply the brakes.
- Worn Brake Pads
If your brake pads are worn down, they may not press evenly against the brake rotor, leading to vibrations when braking. This uneven pad wear can result in a pulsing sensation that can be felt in the brake pedal. It’s essential to inspect your brake pads regularly and replace them before they become too worn.
Can a Bad Sway Bar Cause Shaking When Braking?
A damaged sway bar typically doesn’t cause shaking when braking. However, in some cases, a worn sway bar might contribute to a bumpy or unstable ride that could cause the car to shake during braking. If you’re experiencing vibrations, it’s worth checking the sway bar alongside the brakes.
What to Do About Brake Pedal Pulsation or Shaking
Shaking or pulsation in the brake pedal can compromise your ability to stop the vehicle safely. If you’re experiencing this issue, it’s crucial to have it diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.
If you’re comfortable with car repairs, fixing warped rotors or worn brake pads can often be done with the right tools. However, if you’re unsure or lack the experience, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic. After all, brakes are critical to your safety, and it’s not worth taking any chances.
Where to Buy Replacement Parts for Your Vehicle
When it’s time to replace your brake rotors, pads, or other components, make sure you source high-quality parts from trusted suppliers. Look for parts specifically designed for your make and model to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Conclusion: If you’re feeling vibrations or shaking while braking, it’s a sign that something in your braking system or suspension needs attention. From warped rotors to worn pads, the source of the issue could vary, but prompt repair is essential for your safety on the road. Whether you tackle the repairs yourself or take it to a professional, don’t ignore those warning signs!
