When you hit the brakes in your car, you expect it to come to a smooth stop.
However, if you feel a shake or vibration in the steering wheel or the entire car, it can be a sign of a problem.
In our previous article we have also discussed why does my car shake when I turn it on and why does my car shake when parked, you can check those from here as well.
In this article, we will explore the 13 reasons why your car shakes when you brake at high or low speeds and provide solutions for each issue.
Why Does My Car Shake When I Brake?
The following are the 13 reasons why my car shakes when I brake:
- Warped Brake Rotors
- Uneven Brake Pads
- Loose Caliper Bolts
- Worn Ball Joints
- Bad Wheel Bearings
- Loose Wheel Lug Nuts
- Tires Out of Balance
- Bent Axles
- Sticking Brake Calipers
- Bad Brake Hoses
- Warped Drums
- Bad Shock Absorbers
- Faulty Suspension Components
Warped Brake Rotors
The brake rotors are part of the braking system that the brake pads clamp onto to stop the vehicle.
They are made of iron or steel and can become warped due to overheating or wear over time.
When the brake rotors are warped, it can cause the car to shake when you brake.
The rotors become unevenly worn, which results in a pulsation that is felt in the steering wheel.
The solution to this problem is to replace the brake rotors.
Uneven Brake Pads
The brake pads are the friction material that clamps onto the brake rotors to stop the vehicle and they can wear out over time.
Uneven wear on the brake pads can also cause the car to shake when you brake. If the pads are not making contact with the rotor evenly, it can cause a pulsation.
In such a situation, the brake pads should be replaced immediately.
Loose Caliper Bolts
A caliper bolts hold the brake caliper in place and allow it to move back and forth as the brake pads clamp onto the brake rotors.
If the caliper bolts are loose, it can cause the brake caliper to vibrate, which can result in a shake or vibration when you brake.
So,If the caliper bolts have become loose, then get them tightened properly by the mechanic.
Worn Ball Joints
Ball joints connect the steering knuckle to the control arm and allow for movement of the wheels while still maintaining a solid connection to the suspension system.
Worn ball joints can cause the wheels to wobble and shake when you brake.
It is wise to replace ball joints when they become worn.
Bad Wheel Bearings
Wheel bearings are a set of metal balls or rollers that support the weight of the vehicle and allow the wheels to spin smoothly.
Bad wheel bearings can cause the wheels to wobble and shake, especially when you brake.
If the wobble is happening due to the wheel bearing, then give it proper lubrication, if it is completely damaged then it would be appropriate to replace it.
Loose Wheel Lug Nuts
Wheel lug nuts are used to attach the wheels to the hub of the vehicle.
If the wheel lug nuts are loose, it can cause the wheel to wobble and shake when you brake.
Tighten the loose wheel lug nuts properly and the problem will be solved.
Tires Out of Balance
As we know tires are the components that make contact with the road surface and provide traction and stability for the vehicle.
If the tires are out of balance, it can cause the car to vibrate and shake when you brake.
Tire balance is also very important to drive the vehicle safely, so if you feel that the tire is unbalanced, then immediately show it to the mechanic and get it fixed.
Bent Axles
Axles are the metal rods that connect the wheels to the differential or transmission and transfer power to the wheels.
If the axles are bent, it can cause the wheels to wobble and shake when you brake.
The bent axle is very dangerous because it is likely to cause a major accident, so get it fixed immediately or replace the axle.
Sticking Brake Calipers
Brake calipers hold the brake pads and apply pressure to the brake rotors to slow or stop the vehicle.
Sticking brake calipers can cause the brakes to drag and result in a shake or vibration when you brake.
In this case, get the sticking brake calipers replaced.
Bad Brake Hoses
Brake hoses carry brake fluid from the master cylinder to the brake calipers or wheel cylinders, allowing the brakes to be applied.
If the brake hoses are worn or damaged, it can cause the brakes to be less responsive and result in a shake or vibration when you brake.
If the brake hoses are worn or damaged, the only solution is to replace them.
Warped Drums
Brake drums are used on some vehicles and work in a similar way to brake rotors, but they are shaped like a drum and are found on the rear wheels of some cars and trucks.
If you have drum brakes, warped drums can cause the car to shake when you brake.
The solution is to replace the warped drums.
Bad Shock Absorbers
Shock absorbers dampen the up-and-down movement of the suspension system and help to provide a smooth ride.
Bad shock absorbers can cause the car to bounce and shake when you brake.
The solution is to replace the bad shock absorbers.
In this case, replace the bad shock absorber.
Faulty Suspension Components
Suspension components include a variety of parts that connect the wheels to the vehicle and allow for movement while still maintaining stability and control.
Faulty suspension components can cause the car to wobble and shake when you brake.
The solution is to replace the faulty suspension components.
See Also:
Why Does My Car Jerk When I Accelerate
Should I be Worried If My Car Shakes When I Brake?
Yes, you should be concerned if your car shakes when you brake.
It is not normal for a car to shake or vibrate when braking, and it is a sign that there may be a problem with the braking system.
Ignoring this issue can lead to more significant problems, such as reduced braking performance, increased stopping distances, and potentially unsafe driving conditions.
It's essential to have the problem diagnosed by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.
The mechanic can inspect the braking system and identify the cause of the shaking, whether it's due to warped rotors, worn brake pads, or a malfunctioning caliper.
They can also recommend the necessary repairs to ensure your car's braking system is functioning correctly.
In summary, if your car shakes when you brake, it's best to have it checked out immediately to ensure your safety on the road.
What to Do If My Car Shakes When Braking?
If your car shakes when braking, it's essential to address the problem as soon as possible to avoid any potential safety issues. Here are the steps you should take:
- Slow Down and Take It Easy
- Find a Safe Place to Stop
- Inspect Your Car
- Have Your Car Inspected by a Mechanic
- Get Your Car Repaired
Slow Down and Take It Easy
If your car shakes when braking, slow down and take extra precautions while driving.
Give yourself extra time to brake and avoid hard braking whenever possible.
Find a Safe Place to Stop
If possible, find a safe place to pull over and inspect your car.
Be sure to turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers that you're stopped.
Inspect Your Car
Check your wheels, tires, and brakes for any visible signs of damage or wear.
Look for flat spots on your tires, uneven wear on your brake pads, or any damage to your rotors or calipers.
Have Your Car Inspected by a Mechanic
Even if you can't see any visible signs of damage, it's essential to have your car inspected by a qualified mechanic.
Get Your Car Repaired
Once you know what's causing the shaking, have your car repaired as soon as possible.
Depending on the problem, this may involve replacing brake components, balancing your wheels, or repairing your suspension system.
In summary, if your car shakes when braking, take immediate action to identify and address the problem. Slow down, inspect your car, and have it inspected by a mechanic. Don't ignore the issue, as it could lead to more significant problems and potentially unsafe driving conditions.
Conclusion
If your car shakes or vibrates when you brake at high speeds, it can be a sign of a problem with one of these 13 reasons.
It is important to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to determine the cause of the shaking and have the necessary repairs made.
By addressing these issues, you can ensure that your vehicle is safe and reliable for the road.
Thank You