If the brake rotor is unstable or bends, the car shakes when you brake. Do you ever get that judder through the car floor when you apply the brakes? Well, it is kind of like an earthquake, but you feel it in your car. Fear not: you are not the only one currently or has ever been in this situation – and yes, that’s a pun. Commonly, most drivers are familiar with this situation; it is not just an inconvenience; it might point to an issue with the car. Now, it is time to investigate the potential causes of shaking when you apply brakes and what you should do about it.
Common Causes of Car Shaking When Braking
Warped Brake Rotors
Among the most common causes of vehemence in a car while applying the brake is a warping of the brake rotors. Drums are large metallic structures mounted within the wheels so that the brake pads have something to compress against. With time, the heat produced when the brakes are applied affects the structure of the rotors, making them warp. This warping brings an irregularity, so when the brake pads come into contact, an experience of vibrating occurs.Â
Signs of Warped Rotors:
- Pulsating brake pedal
- Frequent sharp movement of the steering wheel, specifically when applying the break.
- Uneven braking performance
Worn Brake Pads
Brake pads are among the other vital parts of the braking system. It is done by pressing against the rotors to reduce the speed of the car. However, like all other things, they have a shelf life that requires replacement after they have been used for some time. Once they have worn down to a certain level, brake pads are unable to offer the necessary friction coming with vibrations.Â
Types of Brake Pads:
- Organic
- Metallic
- Ceramic
Symptoms of Worn Brake Pads:
- Squealing or grinding noises
- Longer stopping distances
- The light located next to the brake pedal illuminates to give you an alert.
Sticking Brake Calipers
Branded calipers apply pressure on the brake pads to the rotors. Occasionally, these particular calipers can freeze, which means that one brake pad is going to apply a greater amount of pressure than the other one. This imbalance results in shaking, more so when the car is applied at high speeds in order to bring it to a stop.
Causes of Sticking:
- Corrosion
- Dirt and debris buildup
- Faulty caliper pins
Wheel Alignment Issues
Proper wheel alignment ensures your tires are angled correctly, optimizing handling and tire wear. Misalignment can cause uneven tire wear and vibrations, which are especially noticeable when braking.
Importance of Alignment:
- Prevents uneven tire wear
- Improves fuel efficiency
- Enhances handling and safety
Suspension Problems
It provides suspension for your car’s weight, prevents shocks from transferring your car, and keeps your tires in contact with the road. It is important to know that any wear and tear on the suspension or shocks will allow vibrations to happen, particularly when the car is braking.
Common Suspension-Related Issues:
- Worn-out shocks or struts
- Damaged control arms
- Faulty ball joints
Tire Problems
The tires are arguably the only component of your car that runs into contact with the road surface and, hence, make a big contribution to the feel of the car when on the road. If your tires are worn out unevenly or are of different balance, your car will be shaking wildly while applying the brakes.
Uneven Tire Wear:
- This is a result of either improper inflation or alignment problems.
- This can cause a bumpy and shaky experience, and they can also vibrate.
Imbalanced Tires:
- The result has a similar parameter from equation (9. 7), where the weight is unevenly distributed.
- It did make the car shake at higher speeds of travel.
Diagnosing the Issue
Listening for Noises
Other sounds can, therefore, point to different issues. For example, a squealing sound could be associated with worn brake pads or a grinding sound associated with metal-on-metal contact indicative of worn brakes.
Feeling the Vibration
In addition, observe in which part of the body the vibration is perceived. If it is felt in the steering wheel, it can probably mean a problem with the front brakes or wheels. If the gustative sense is felt in the seat, it might be caused by something in the rear.Â
Visual Inspection
First of all, one should do a brief preliminary examination, which is done with the help of the eyes. You should also investigate patterns of uneven wear, the status of brake pads and rotors, and the condition of the suspension parts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, shaking while braking a car could imply one or the other of these ranges, from the simple aspect of warped rotors to the suspension system. The early identification of the problem will help you avoid fatal accidents on the roads. Some problems may require professional assistance, while others can be solved through routine service and courtesy. Thus, the next time you experience that strange quake, do not use ignorance to deal with the situation. Don’t ponder for long; take some time and get your car examined.
FAQs
What does it mean if my car shakes only at high speeds?
If your vehicle shakes at high speeds, it could be due to imbalanced tires or issues with the suspension. It’s best to check these components to ensure your car’s safety and performance.
Can nasty shocks cause shaking when braking?
Yes, worn-out shocks can cause your car to shake when braking. The shocks are part of the suspension system, and if they’re not functioning correctly, they can affect the stability of your car.
How long do brake pads typically last?
Brake pads usually last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles, depending on your driving habits and the type of brake pads used. Regular inspections can help you determine when it’s time for a replacement.
Is it safe to drive with a shaking car?
While it may not always be immediately dangerous, driving with a shaking car is not advisable. The issue causing the shaking could worsen over time, potentially leading to more significant problems and even accidents.
What should I do if my car shakes when I brake?
If your car shakes when you brake, it’s best to have it checked by a professional mechanic. They can diagnose the issue and recommend the appropriate repairs to ensure your vehicle’s safety.