Why Does My Car Shake When I Brake?
It can be a bit of a shock when your car suddenly starts to shake whenever you brake. Not only is it unpleasant, it can also be a worrying sign that something is wrong with your vehicle. Let’s take a closer look at why your car might be shaking when you brake.
Mechanical Issue
One of the most common causes of shaking when you brake is a mechanical issue. Take a close look at your brakes and make sure that they are not damaged, worn down, or malfunctioning. This could be caused by any of the following problems:
- Your brake pads could have become worn out
- Your brakes could have been improperly installed
- Your brake rotors could be warped
- Your brake fluid could be low
If you think that a mechanical issue may be responsible for the shaking, you should have a professional mechanic take a look at your car.
Wheel Alignment
Another potential cause of shaking when you brake is incorrect wheel alignment. When the alignment of your wheels is off, it can cause the brakes to grip too hard, leading to shaking. This can also be caused by front-end suspension problems, so it’s important to have your suspension checked, too.
Bad Brake Calipers
In some cases, the shaking could be caused by a problem with the brake calipers. If the calipers are stuck or not working properly, they can cause your brakes to shake when you apply them. This is usually caused by damaged or worn out components, so it’s important to have your calipers checked by a mechanic.
Conclusion
It’s never fun to have your car start shaking when you brake, but it’s important to find out what is causing the problem. The most common causes of this issue are mechanical problems, incorrect wheel alignment, and bad brake calipers. If your car is shaking when you brake, you should take it to a professional mechanic as soon as possible to have it looked at.
