The sound of your car’s brakes squealing or grinding when you press the pedal can be unsettling, especially if you’re not used to it. But what if your car starts shaking when you brake? This is a more serious issue that requires immediate attention. In this article, we’ll explore the possible causes of a shaking car when braking, the signs to look out for, and what you can do to fix the problem.
Table of Contents
What Causes a Car to Shake When Braking?
There are several reasons why your car might be shaking when you brake. Here are some of the most common causes:
Rotors and Brake Pads
Worn-out or warped brake rotors can cause your car to vibrate when you brake. This is because the rotors are not able to absorb the heat generated by the braking process, leading to warping. Similarly, worn-out brake pads can also cause vibrations, especially if they’re not properly aligned.
| Signs of Worn-Out Brake Rotors | Signs of Worn-Out Brake Pads |
|---|---|
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Brake Calipers
Brake calipers are responsible for applying pressure to the brake pads. If the calipers are worn out or damaged, they may not be able to apply even pressure, leading to vibrations when you brake.
Wheel Bearings
Wheel bearings are responsible for supporting the weight of the car and allowing the wheels to rotate smoothly. If the bearings are worn out or damaged, they can cause vibrations, especially when you brake.
Other Causes
Other causes of a shaking car when braking include:
- Loose or worn-out suspension components
- Uneven tire wear
- Imbalanced wheels
- Bad wheel bearings
Signs to Look Out For
If your car is shaking when you brake, there are several signs you should look out for:
Vibrations
The most obvious sign of a shaking car when braking is vibrations. You may feel the vibrations through the steering wheel, seat, or floor. (See Also: Why Is It Bumpy When I Brake? Common Causes Explained)
Brake Noise
If your car is making a strange noise when you brake, such as a grinding or squealing sound, it could be a sign of a problem.
Brake Pedal Feel
If the brake pedal feels spongy or soft, it could be a sign that the brake pads or rotors are worn out.
Brake Light
If the brake light comes on, it could be a sign that there’s a problem with the brakes.
What to Do
If your car is shaking when you brake, there are several things you can do:
Check the Brake Pads and Rotors
Start by checking the brake pads and rotors for wear. If they’re worn out, you may need to replace them.
Check the Brake Calipers
Next, check the brake calipers to make sure they’re functioning properly. If they’re worn out or damaged, you may need to replace them. (See Also: Why Won’t My Brake Light Turn Off? Fixing The Issue)
Check the Wheel Bearings
Check the wheel bearings to make sure they’re functioning properly. If they’re worn out or damaged, you may need to replace them.
Check the Suspension and Steering
Check the suspension and steering components to make sure they’re functioning properly. If they’re worn out or damaged, you may need to replace them.
Take Your Car to a Mechanic
If you’re not sure what’s causing the problem or if you’re not comfortable checking the brakes yourself, take your car to a mechanic. They can diagnose the problem and recommend the necessary repairs.
Recap
In this article, we’ve explored the possible causes of a shaking car when braking, the signs to look out for, and what you can do to fix the problem. Remember to always check the brake pads and rotors for wear, check the brake calipers and wheel bearings for damage, and take your car to a mechanic if you’re not sure what’s causing the problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the most common causes of a shaking car when braking?
A: The most common causes of a shaking car when braking include worn-out or warped brake rotors, worn-out brake pads, brake calipers, wheel bearings, and loose or worn-out suspension components.
Q: What are the signs of worn-out brake rotors?
A: The signs of worn-out brake rotors include vibrations when braking, warped or uneven rotor surface, and a brake pedal that feels spongy or soft.
Q: What are the signs of worn-out brake pads?
A: The signs of worn-out brake pads include vibrations when braking, a brake pedal that feels spongy or soft, and a brake light that comes on. (See Also: What Is A Brake Controller? Explained Simply)
Q: What should I do if my car is shaking when I brake?
A: If your car is shaking when you brake, you should check the brake pads and rotors for wear, check the brake calipers and wheel bearings for damage, and take your car to a mechanic if you’re not sure what’s causing the problem.
Q: Can I fix a shaking car when braking myself?
A: It’s generally not recommended to try to fix a shaking car when braking yourself, as it can be a complex problem that requires professional expertise. It’s best to take your car to a mechanic who can diagnose the problem and recommend the necessary repairs.
Q: How often should I have my brakes inspected?
A: It’s recommended to have your brakes inspected every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, or as recommended by your car’s manufacturer. This can help prevent problems with your brakes and ensure your safety on the road.
