As a car owner, the chances are that you are acquainted with the ins and outs of it, and you can pretty much tell when something is not right by how your car performs when out on the highway.
A prevalent problem that you might come across is if your car shakes when braking at high speeds.
It may seem harmless to you and your vehicle but it can lead to the damage and failure of multiple functions of the car if delayed to fix or left untreated. Therefore, an immediate response is needed to brakes shudder and steering wheel vibration at high speeds. However, before thinking about fixing it, an investigation of the root cause of the problem is crucial.
There are various causes including out-of-alignment tires, damaged brakes, or corrosion why your vehicle might experience steering wheel shakes when braking, and it is critical to address this problem before it becomes a major issue.
In this guide, we will tell you about the common causes of why your car vibrates when braking and how to avoid car accidents. So keep reading.
What Does It Mean When Your Car Shakes While Braking?
Every automobile and circumstance is different, but if your vehicle shakes when braking, mostly the culprit is the braking apparatus itself.
One exemption is if you can feel the shakes while you are on the freeway instead of braking.
If the issue is not linked to the brakes, it can likely be related to a worn tire, steering wheel shaking problem, loose lug nuts, wheel alignment, etc.
Here are some common reasons why your car shakes.
Reasons for Car Shake When Braking:
1. Corrosion
When your vehicle sits for an extended duration without being driven, corrosion can manifest in the brake system. When the rotor region beneath the brake pad becomes rusted, it can cause the brake pedal to shake. A licensed auto body or brake shop can repair and restore the rotor with accumulated corrosion.
2. Unbalanced Tires
Unbalanced tires are one of the most prevalent reasons for brake shudder. If the tires are unbalanced or under-inflated in specific parts, it can cause your automobile’s suspension system to function harder.
Furthermore, it can make the steering wheel start to shudder, making it difficult for you to navigate the vehicle.
The mechanic should also examine the wheel alignment when you take your automobile for tire gyration.
You should have the tire rotation done every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. However, you should authenticate the mileage with your vehicle owner’s manual.
3. Worn Brake Pads
Worn brake pads are also a common cause of when you brake, car shakes. They are designed to last about 50,000 miles.
However, your driving style, use, and many other factors influence your longevity. Sharp stabs, hard stops, etc., can impact the health of the brake pads.
The shake that you are feeling could signify the brake pad’s wear. The pad’s metal tab can also cause light vibration when you press the brakes. You can replace it to resolve this issue.
4. Issue With Brake Rotors
Brake rotors are circular tools that are connected to brake pads. They are responsible for the safe braking of cars. When some kind of issue occurs to them or they are worn out they stop doing their function. It results in shuddering brakes or car shakes when braking at high speed.
5. Brake Caliper
These are also essential components of the car braking system. Their function is to press the brake pads against roosters and stop the car safely. However, dust, corrosion, and wearing can badly affect their performance. If not fixed the issue timely, it can lead to the car shaking when braking at high speeds.
How To Fix it?
Car shaking while driving is a common issue that car owners can experience too often if not regularly care for and maintain their vehicles. It can be fixed easily and quickly without spending a lot of money.
Some effective ways that can help to cope with this issue are listed below;
Lubrication
As we discussed earlier corrosion is one of the most common reasons cars vibrate when braking and even during the drive. Therefore, lubricating the crucial tools and parts of the car braking system can help you to fix this issue.
The reason is that lubricants not only reduce friction but also remove dust from tools and stimulate their smooth functioning.
Regular Repair and Maintenance
Another possible way to avoid car shaking while driving is regular care and maintenance. It helps you to detect minor problems and damaged tools like car brakes, brake pads, and brake rotors that can lead to car shaking issues and further damage. Therefore, you can easily repair them before they turn into massive troubles.
Replacing Damaged Tools
Repairing damaged parts is a temporary solution and they can stop performing their function at any time. Therefore, the best solution to fix this issue is to replace damaged and worn-out parts with brand-new tools. Though it’s a bit expensive, it will provide you with a long-term solution to not only the car shaking problem but also many other problems with a comfortable driving experience.
Send to Mechanic
The best and highly recommended solution to car vibration when braking and other problems are the regular services of the vehicle. Therefore, make sure to send your vehicle to a professional mechanic and say no to any stress and risk of road accidents. They have advanced tools and knowledge to detect and solve problems that can reduce your vehicle’s performance.
Conclusion
If you want to accurately determine which of the vehicle brakes’ vibration symptoms is correct, you will need qualified mechanics to warily examine the system to discover what is causing the automobile to vibrate.
They will find out if the brake rotors are causing the problem or if your car needs a brake pad replacement so that you can recommence your excursion with a stable ride.
Follow CarDecent for more vehicle maintenance tips and tricks.
Last Updated on March 15, 2023 by admin
Mac is an Automotive enthusiast. He owns up to 15 vehicles. He deals with Auto problems and shows his skill to Car owners who are seeking any type of Car help.
