Why Does My Car Shake When I Brake?
It is always a worry when you notice that your car is shaking or vibrating when you are braking. Fortunately, this is a common problem that has a few straightforward solutions. Here is an overview of what to look out for and how you can start fixing it.
Reasons Why Your Car is Shaking When Braking
There are several possible reasons why your car might be shaking when braking, including:
- Warped rotors: This is the most common cause of shaking and vibration when braking, although it is only visible in cars which are equipped with disc brakes on each wheel.
- Misaligned wheels: If your wheels are out of alignment, this can cause your car to shake or vibrate when braking.
- Tires: Worn tires, or tires with incorrect pressure, can cause your car to shake when braking.
- Brake Pads: Worn out brake pads can cause your car to shake when braking, as they cause vibrations due to the lack of friction.
How to Fix Car Shake When Braking
If you have identified one of the above problems, the best thing to do is have the issue addressed by a professional. However, there are a few things you can try to make sure the problem is fixed:
- Rotors: If your car is equipped with rotors, you can purchase replacement rotors and have them installed by a professional mechanic.
- Wheel Alignment: You can bring it to a mechanic and have the wheels aligned.
- Tire Pressure: Make sure the pressure in all the tires is correct according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Brake Pads: If your brake pads are worn out, replace them with new ones.
In summary, if your car is shaking when braking, you most likely have a problem with either the rotors, wheel alignment, tire pressure, or brake pads. Have it checked by a professional to make sure the problem is fixed.
