An uncomfortable car that shakes when braking can also be hazardous; this symptom could signal several issues, including worn suspension components requiring replacement or adjusting. However, there are some reasons why your car shakes when you brake.
Brake rotors work in tandem with brake pads to bring your vehicle to a stop, but over time, their performance can deteriorate, creating friction that warps them and causes your car to shudder when braking. Find out the answer to the question, “Why is my car shaking when I brake?”
Worn Or Dirty Brake Pads Cause Vibrations
The braking system relies on brake pads pressing against brake discs (or rotors) to create the necessary friction for deceleration. Over time, constant rubbing can wear down these pads; should their wear become excessive, it may even warp the rotors and lead to vibrations when applying brakes. This is a clear sign that your brake components need replacing.
To avoid such an outcome, it is advised that you regularly inspect the condition of your brake pads. A visual examination can quickly reveal whether they have become worn down and should be replaced immediately if that is the case. If you want good care of your car, then you should consider a car protection plan.
As part of the braking process, it is also critical that caliper pins retract properly during retraction. A stuck pin, often caused by insufficient lubrication, can create uneven pressure on rotors, causing vibration in your vehicle and potentially shaking. To combat this problem, it would be prudent to relubricate pins every six months or so.
Warped Brake Rotors Lead to Shaking
When you apply pressure to your brake pedal, pads clamp onto flat metal rotors to slow or stop your car. Friction from this contact generates heat, which, over time, may warp the rotors and cause your vehicle to shake as it stops abruptly and becomes less smooth. As this is important to fix, you should get an extended warranty coverage for your car.
Even with regular brake system maintenance, some drivers still struggle to avoid warping their rotors. Driving over hills, towing heavy loads, or other high-stress driving conditions can quickly heat rotor surfaces and lead to their warping, potentially reducing effectiveness and increasing the chances of experiencing shaking when stopping your vehicle.
Adhering to some best practices, such as bedding in new brake pads properly, not riding your brakes excessively, and maintaining regular service of your brake system maintenance program, can usually prevent rotor warping.
Uneven Tire Wear Affects Braking Stability
Uneven tire wear can undermine your vehicle’s braking stability. Due to aggressive driving and insufficient air pressure, outer edges wear down more rapidly than the center parts, leading to shaking when braking. Correcting this may require having tires reinflated or wheels realigned.
Suspension component issues may contribute to uneven tire wear. If you notice unequal tire wear and screeching sounds when applying the brake pedal, this could indicate suspension failure, such as bad control arms or ball joints.
Uneven tire wear is often the result of misalignment or balancing issues; however, it could also stem from loose wheel bearings, out-of-round tires, and excessive camber. No matter its cause, having your tire and wheel assembly professionally assessed as soon as possible is essential.
Learn more about the Different Types of Extended Warranties.
Loose or Damaged Wheel Bearings
Wheel bearings secure wheel hubs within suspension systems and ensure smooth wheel rotation. However, when these bearings become worn or damaged, they can cause your car to vibrate as you drive.
Signs of worn or unbalanced tires include an audible groan or growl that increases in volume as your vehicle speeds up or possibly hearing screeching noises at lower speeds. Damaged wheel bearings can lead to uneven brake pads or rotor wear, which decreases braking stability and may send false signals to the ABS sensor, causing its malfunction.
If your steering wheel shakes while driving, try isolating it by turning in one direction to determine its source within your car’s suspension components or wheel bearings. Doing this may help pinpoint its origin. Moreover, you have to understand how to select the perfect extended warranty.
Misaligned Wheels Create Brake Pulsations
Vehicle alignment issues can cause uneven tire wear and brake pressure distribution, resulting in brake pulses felt as vibrations through the steering wheel or body of the car as soon as you press down on the pedal. Regular alignment checks, particularly after encountering potholes or curbs that might put off your wheels, are recommended.
Your tires and suspension components should also be regularly examined for signs of damage or wear. Loose suspension parts can exacerbate vibrations, while often, out-of-balance rotating assemblies cause problems. Rarely can your brake calipers become stuck during driving and cause “brake pulsation,” a condition easily identified by seeing blue or blackish spots known as hot spots on your rotors.
Brake Calipers Sticking During Braking
Brake calipers are pistons that clamp down onto your car’s brake pads to create friction that slows and stops your vehicle. Over time and heavy usage, they may wear down or even stick, which prevents them from making contact evenly with one another. This leads to reduced braking efficiency and potentially malfunctioning other parts of your vehicle, which could potentially be very dangerous.
Warped brake rotors may also contribute to shaking when you brake, as these large metal discs are what your brake pads clamp onto to stop your car. Over time and heavy use, excessive heat can warp their surfaces, preventing even contact between brake pads and rotors, leading to that characteristic shaking sensation when applying brakes.
There can be numerous reasons for your car to shake when applying the brakes, with these being among the more likely. Consulting a professional service center will allow them to diagnose and resolve this quickly.
Conclusion
If your car shakes when you brake, it’s important to address the issue promptly. Consult a professional mechanic if you experience shaking when braking for a proper diagnosis and to ensure your vehicle’s safety. Taking action early can save you from costly repairs and keep you safe on the road.
Secure Your Car with Our Extended Warranty Plans
Protect your car and your wallet with our comprehensive Extended Warranty plans! Don’t let unexpected repair costs catch you off guard—our warranties cover essential components like the engine, transmission, and electrical systems, ensuring your vehicle stays in top shape without the stress of expensive bills.
As a leading warranty provider, Nova Warranty offers a wide range of protection plans for various car brands, including Bentley, Lamborghini, Ford, and McLaren. Our auto warranty plans provide peace of mind and financial protection against unexpected repairs, ensuring that you can enjoy your luxury vehicle worry-free. Contact Us now!
