For drivers, there’s nothing worse than your car shaking when you hit the brakes. Not only is it disconcerting and potentially dangerous as you lose control of the wheel, but oftentimes it also indicates that something is wrong with your vehicle.
Whether or not this is a serious problem depends on what kind of shake you’re experiencing, from mild vibrations to loud banging noises – which can indicate brake pad problems or even bigger issues with other components in your wheels.
In this post we’ll provide an overview of what could be causing your car to shake when braking, along with troubleshooting steps and advice for how to prevent further damage and maximize safety while behind the wheel.
Why Does My Car Shake When I Brake?
There are several reasons why your car might be shaking when you brake. One of the most common reasons is warped rotors. Rotors are part of your car’s braking system, and if they are not even in thickness, the brake pads can’t grip them properly. This can cause your car to vibrate as the brakes are applied.
Uneven brake pads can also be a cause of this problem. If your brake pads are worn unevenly, they will not be able to apply equal pressure to the rotors, resulting in shaking. This can occur from normal wear and tear, or as a result of driving habits such as frequent hard braking.
Another potential culprit for a shaking car when braking is the brake caliper. This component pushes the brake pads against the rotors. If the caliper isn’t properly aligned or has gone bad, it can lead to an uneven application of the brake pads, causing your car to shake.
Faulty brake discs can also lead to a shaking car. If your brake discs are damaged, corroded, or worn unevenly, they will not be able to grip the brake pads properly, leading to vibrations. Similarly, issues with your car’s suspension system, such as worn out struts or shock absorbers, can also cause your car to shake when braking.
In summary, if your car is shaking when you brake, it’s likely due to an issue with your braking system, and potentially your suspension. It’s important to get the problem checked out by a professional as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your safety on the road.
How to Fix
The solution to your car shaking when braking depends largely on the root cause of the problem. Though there are a few things you can do to address minor issues, seeking professional help is usually best.
If the issue is with the brake pads, you may need to replace them. Over time, brake pads wear down and might cause unevenness, leading to shaking when braking. This is a normal part of car maintenance and should be done approximately every 50,000 miles, depending on your driving habits and the type of pads you use.
If the problem lies in the rotors, they may be resurfaced or replaced, depending on their condition. Warped rotors can often be resurfaced to make them smooth and even again, effectively eliminating any vibrations. However, if the rotors are too worn, they may need to be replaced entirely.
In case of a faulty brake caliper, the component will need to be repaired or replaced. This is a more complex issue that should be addressed by a professional. They have the necessary expertise and equipment to ensure that the caliper is properly aligned and functioning optimally.
When it comes to problems with the brake discs or suspension system, it’s best to consult a professional. Issues like these can be complex, and attempting to fix them on your own can lead to further damage. Always remember that your safety on the road is paramount, and a professional can provide the best guarantee of that.
In conclusion, if your car shakes when you brake, don’t ignore it. It’s a sign that something in your vehicle needs attention. Whether it’s a simple brake pad replacement or a more complex issue with your car’s suspension, professional help will ensure you get back on the road safely and smoothly.
See more: How To Clean Car Seats
FAQs
Over the years, we’ve found that many drivers have similar questions when it comes to the issue of their cars shaking when they brake. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions and detailed answers to help you understand the problem better.
Why do rotors warp causing the car to shake when braking?
Rotors can warp due to excessive heat buildup from frequent hard braking, poor quality of the rotors, or improper installation. When the brakes are applied, the pads generate heat as they squeeze against the rotors to slow down the car.
If this heat cannot dissipate quickly, it can cause the rotors to warp. This warping results in an uneven surface for the brake pads to grip, leading to vibrations that you feel as shaking when braking. Remember that warped rotors, if not addressed promptly, can lead to more serious, expensive problems, and affect the overall driving experience.
Can driving habits contribute to the shaking when braking?
Absolutely. Aggressive driving habits, particularly frequent hard braking, can cause various parts of your car’s braking system to wear out prematurely. This includes the brake pads, rotors, and caliper.
Hard braking generates a lot of heat, which as mentioned earlier, can warp the rotors, and also cause uneven wear on the brake pads. Both these issues can result in your car shaking when you brake. Modifying your driving habits can help extend the lifespan of your brake system and prevent issues such as shaking when braking.
What’s the role of the suspension system in a car shaking when braking?
The suspension system of a car plays a fundamental role in absorbing road shocks and maintaining control of the vehicle. If there are issues with the suspension system, such as worn-out struts or shock absorbers, your car might shake when you brake.
This is because the suspension system can’t effectively absorb the additional force exerted when braking, causing the car to shake. It’s important to maintain your car’s suspension system and get it checked regularly to prevent such issues.
How often should brake pads and rotors be replaced to prevent shaking when braking?
The frequency of brake pad and rotor replacement largely depends on your driving habits and the type of brake pads and rotors you use. On average, brake pads should be replaced every 50,000 miles, but this can vary if you frequently do hard braking or drive in heavy traffic.
Rotors, on the other hand, should last through two or three sets of pads before needing replacement. However, if you notice any signs of warping or damage, such as your car shaking when braking, it’s best to consult a professional to check if they need to be replaced sooner.
Final Thought
Sometimes, it’s the small signals that warn us of bigger problems ahead. A car shaking when braking might seem like a minor annoyance, but it’s your vehicle’s way of telling you that something is not right. This issue might signify a problem as simple as worn-out brake pads, or as complex as a damaged suspension system.
Ignoring these signs can lead to more serious issues that not only risk your safety but also result in more expensive repairs down the line. It’s always better to address these problems earlier rather than later. Regular maintenance of your vehicle, including checking and replacing brake pads and rotors, can prevent many of these issues from arising in the first place.
Consider your driving habits as well. As discussed, frequent hard braking can wear down components of your brake system faster than normal. Driving more gently can prolong the life of these parts, thereby ensuring a smoother and safer ride.
In conclusion, if you notice your car shaking when braking, take it as a sign that your vehicle needs attention. Consult a professional, prioritize repairs, and stay safe on the road. Remember, your vehicle is not just a means of transport, but an integral part of your daily life. It deserves your care and attention.