Introduction:
It is not uncommon for car owners to experience their car shaking when they apply brakes. Not only is it a cause of concern for drivers, but it can also indicate underlying issues that may require attention. In this article, we will provide an in-depth analysis of the reasons why your car is shaking when you brake, along with DIY tips and professional solutions to address the problem.
The Top 5 Reasons Why Your Car is Shaking When You Brake:
Some of the most common reasons affecting the braking performance of your car are as follows:
A. Worn Brake Pads:
One of the most probable causes for braking system shaking is worn-out brake pads. Your brake pads function to provide the friction necessary to change car’s momentum to halt it, and over time, they become thin or lose their ability to grip the rotor, leading to shaking or vibration.
B. Warped Brake Rotors:
Brake rotors function by providing a surface for brake pads to grip, and when they become warped, you will experience shaking during braking. Some of the common causes for brake rotor warping include pushing brakes too hard, towing heavy loads, or driving downhill frequently.
C. Sticking Calipers:
The caliper serves to push the brake pads onto the rotor, just as your hand does if you were squeezing a bike brake’s handle. When this function is impaired due to sticking calipers, the result will be brakes that drag or unevenly grip the rotor, causing shaking.
D. Loose or Worn Suspension Components:
Loose ball joints, tie rods, or bushings can affect the smooth braking experience and cause the car to shake or vibrate.
E. Tires Out of Balance:
Improperly balanced tires can cause wobbling or vibration in the car, and sensing this imbalance often occurs when braking.
How to Identify the Issue Causing Your Car to Shake When You Brake:
Knowing how to diagnose the underlying issue behind your brake shaking involves identifying its symptoms, including the following:
A. Symptoms of each issue:
- Worn brake pads: Reduced brake-pad thickness and squealing sound when applying brakes.
- Warped brake rotors: A vibration that sets in when braking, like a wavy sensation.
- Sticking calipers: A burning odor traveling from your brakes or steering pull to one side when braking.
- Loose or worn suspension components: Creaking and clanking sounds and steering pull to one side.
- Tires out of balance: Vibration in the car, especially at high speeds.
B. Tips on How to Diagnose the Issue:
Here are some early warnings signs that may help you identify brake-shaking issues before they escalate:
- Thumping sound when braking.
- Burning rubber smell while driving.
- Delay in brake system response.
- Car pulls to one side when braking
Steps to Fix Your Car’s Shaking When You Brake Problem:
Depending on the severity of the issue, you can choose from the following fixing options:
A. DIY Methods for Fixing Each Issue:
Some of the problems that require immediate attention could be fixed at home. Here’s a detailed guide for each of the common reasons causing your car to shake when you apply brakes:
- Worn brake pads: Replacing brake pads is a straightforward process and can be done at home in minimal time.
- Warped brake rotors: The repair process to fix the rotors includes a brake inspection, replacement or resurfacing depending on the extent of damage, and checking calipers for sticking issues.
- Sticking calipers: Calipers should be cleaned or replaced if they are sticking and causing brake-shaking problems.
- Loose or worn suspension components: Loose connections to steering, a weak bushing, or tie rods could cause brake shaking and require a professional mechanic to inspect and fix the issue.
- Tires out of balance: Balancing your tires or a wheel alignment can fix the issue, and it’s best to seek an expert clarifications on these processes.
B. When to Bring Your Car to a Mechanic:
If the DIY approach does not resolve the shaking issue, it’s time to seek a professional mechanic’s help for further assistance. Mechanics will provide further evaluation of the braking system, component replacement or repair, and additional adjustment should the inspection require it.
What Your Mechanic Knows About Why Your Car is Shaking When You Brake:
A. Explanation of How a Mechanic Diagnoses and Fixes the Issue:
Mechanics will begin by examining the brake system and run a test drive to evaluate exactly what’s causing the brake-shaking issue. They may also disassemble brake parts to diagnose specific problems such as warped rotors, seized calipers, or loose suspension components. Once diagnosed, your mechanic will recommend the fixes, usually parts replacement or repair and adjustments to ensure your brakes function smoothly.
B. Costs Associated with Mechanic Repairs:
The cost associated with repairs will be subject to the underlying reason for the shaking. In most cases, a replacement or repair of a part that is causing the shaking will be done. For instance:
- Worn brake pads: $100-$500 in parts and labor.
- Warped brake rotors: $400-$600 in parts and labor.
- Sticking calipers: $300-$800 in parts and labor.
- Loose or worn suspension components: $500-$2,500 depending on the extent of damage.
- Tires out of balance: $20-$100 per tire.
How to Prevent Your Car from Shaking When You Brake:
Here are some tips to prevent excessive wear and tear on your brakes and keep your car running smoothly:
A. Regular Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Car Running Smoothly:
- Check brake fluid levels every 5,000 miles.
- Inspect brake pads periodically (every 25,000 miles).
- Regular tune-ups to ensure brake-system components are in good condition.
B. Driving Tips to Prevent Excessive Wear and Tear on Your Brakes:
- Avoid heavy foot-braking.
- Don’t overload the car or tow heavy loads.
- Don’t ride the brakes down hills.
- Use gears instead of brakes when slowing down.
The Lack of Brake Maintenance That’s Causing Your Car to Shake: A Guide to Fixing it Up
A. Explanation of How Neglecting Brake Maintenance Can Cause Shaking:
Lack of brake maintenance increases the likelihood of brake wear and tear. Once the brakes reach a certain point, they will begin to vibrate and shake. Many drivers tend to ignore regular maintenance, preferring only to repair broken brake parts. However, it is essential to carry out preventative maintenance, rather than just “reacting” to brake problems.
B. Tips on How to Perform Regular Brake Maintenance:
Brake maintenance is essential, and we recommend the following tips:
- Flushing brake fluid once a year.
- Lubricating brake pads slides.
- Cleaning and inspecting brake rotors for warping or damage.
- Cleaning and inspecting brake calipers for seizing issues.
Conclusion:
Now that you understand the common reasons for the shaking issue when braking and what each symptom signifies, it is easy to grasp what DIY methods can be taken to fix it, as well as when it’s time to visit a mechanic. Lastly, regularly maintaining your car’s brakes is essential and helps prevent any shaking issue. Follow these guidelines, and you’ll have a smoother braking experience in no time.