When you’re driving, there’s nothing more unsettling than feeling your car shake or vibrate when you press the brake pedal. It’s a sensation that can be alarming, especially if you’re not used to it. But what’s causing this shakiness, and is it a sign of a serious problem with your vehicle? In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why your car might feel shaky when you brake, and what you can do to address the issue.
What Causes a Car to Feel Shaky When Braking?
There are several reasons why your car might feel shaky when you brake. Some of the most common causes include:
Worn or Loose Brake Pads
Worn or loose brake pads can cause your car to vibrate or shake when you brake. This is because the pads are not properly seated or are worn down, which can cause the brake caliper to move unevenly. This can lead to a shaking or vibrating sensation when you press the brake pedal.
How to Check Your Brake Pads
To check your brake pads, you’ll need to look for signs of wear, such as:
- Excessive wear on the brake pads
- Brake pad material is worn down to the metal backing plate
- Brake pads are loose or not properly seated
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to have your brake pads replaced as soon as possible.
Warped Rotors
Warped rotors can also cause your car to feel shaky when you brake. Warped rotors are caused by excessive heat or wear, which can cause the rotor to become uneven. This can lead to a vibration or shaking sensation when you brake.
How to Check for Warped Rotors
To check for warped rotors, you’ll need to look for signs of wear, such as:
- Excessive wear on the rotor surface
- Rotor surface is uneven or warped
- Brake pads are worn down prematurely
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to have your rotors resurfaced or replaced as soon as possible. (See Also: How Much Do Brake Pads Cost to Fix? Average Repair Prices Revealed)
Brake Rotor Thickness
Brake rotor thickness can also affect the braking performance of your car. If the rotors are too thin, it can cause the brake pads to vibrate or shake when you brake.
How to Check Brake Rotor Thickness
To check brake rotor thickness, you’ll need to measure the thickness of the rotor using a micrometer. The recommended thickness for your car’s rotors can be found in your owner’s manual or on the manufacturer’s website.
Brake Fluid Level
Low brake fluid levels can also cause your car to feel shaky when you brake. This is because the brake fluid helps to lubricate the brake system and keep it running smoothly. If the fluid level is too low, it can cause the brake system to malfunction, leading to a shaking or vibrating sensation when you brake.
How to Check Brake Fluid Level
To check the brake fluid level, you’ll need to locate the brake fluid reservoir under the hood of your car. The reservoir should be filled to the recommended level, which can be found in your owner’s manual or on the manufacturer’s website.
What to Do If Your Car Feels Shaky When You Brake
If your car feels shaky when you brake, there are several steps you can take to address the issue:
Have Your Brake Pads and Rotors Inspected
The first step is to have your brake pads and rotors inspected by a mechanic. They can check for signs of wear and damage, and recommend any necessary repairs or replacements.
How to Inspect Your Brake Pads and Rotors
To inspect your brake pads and rotors, you’ll need to: (See Also: What Is Dot 4 Brake Fluid Used for? Essential Guide)
- Look for signs of wear on the brake pads and rotors
- Check the brake fluid level
- Check the brake system for any signs of leaks or damage
If you notice any signs of wear or damage, it’s a good idea to have your brake pads and rotors replaced as soon as possible.
Have Your Brake Fluid Level Checked
The second step is to have your brake fluid level checked. If the level is too low, it can cause the brake system to malfunction, leading to a shaking or vibrating sensation when you brake.
How to Check Your Brake Fluid Level
To check your brake fluid level, you’ll need to locate the brake fluid reservoir under the hood of your car. The reservoir should be filled to the recommended level, which can be found in your owner’s manual or on the manufacturer’s website.
Consider Upgrading to High-Performance Brake Pads
Finally, if you’re experiencing a shaking or vibrating sensation when you brake, you may want to consider upgrading to high-performance brake pads. These pads are designed to provide improved braking performance and can help to reduce the sensation of vibration or shaking when you brake.
Recap
In this article, we’ve explored the reasons why your car might feel shaky when you brake, and what you can do to address the issue. We’ve also discussed the importance of regular brake maintenance, and how to check your brake pads and rotors for signs of wear and damage. By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your car’s brakes are in good working order and that you’re able to stop safely and confidently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does my car feel shaky when I brake?
A: There are several reasons why your car might feel shaky when you brake, including worn or loose brake pads, warped rotors, brake rotor thickness, and low brake fluid levels. (See Also: Why Am I Losing Brake Pressure? – Find Out Now)
Q: How can I check my brake pads and rotors for signs of wear and damage?
A: To check your brake pads and rotors, you’ll need to look for signs of wear and damage, such as excessive wear on the brake pads and rotors, brake pad material worn down to the metal backing plate, and brake pads that are loose or not properly seated.
Q: How can I check my brake fluid level?
A: To check your brake fluid level, you’ll need to locate the brake fluid reservoir under the hood of your car and check the level against the recommended level, which can be found in your owner’s manual or on the manufacturer’s website.
Q: What can I do to address the issue of my car feeling shaky when I brake?
A: To address the issue of your car feeling shaky when you brake, you can have your brake pads and rotors inspected and replaced as necessary, have your brake fluid level checked and topped off as needed, and consider upgrading to high-performance brake pads.
Q: How often should I have my brakes inspected and maintained?
A: It’s recommended that you have your brakes inspected and maintained every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, or as recommended by your car’s manufacturer.