Why Does My Car Shake When Braking?

Among the many questions our service team receives, one of the most common is, “Why does my car shake when braking?” A shaking car can not only be uncomfortable, but it can also be a sign of some potentially serious problems. To help you keep your new vehicle running safely and optimally on every Richmond Hill and Mississauga drive, Pfaff Automotive Partners takes you through the top reasons cars shake when braking.

What Causes a Car to Shake When Braking?

So, why does your car shake when braking? The cause is likely in the braking system, but there are other parts or systems that may play a role in the problem. Below, we answer in detail the question, “What causes a car to shake when braking?”

• Warped Brake Rotors: It’s not uncommon for rotors to wear out over time or when exposed to excessive heat, which causes the brake pads to make uneven contact with the rotor itself. The result is steering wheel vibration or even shaking of the entire vehicle when braking.
• Worn Brake Pads:When pads wear out to the point that they are exceptionally thin or have become damaged, they cannot provide the friction needed to smoothly stop the vehicle, producing vibrations upon braking.
• Tire Misalignments: Another top reason cars shake when braking may not be in the braking system but in the tires. If your tires are out of balance or worn unevenly, you may notice shaking in your vehicle when braking or even when just slowing down.
• Suspension Issues: Your suspension system has the important job of stabilizing your vehicle. If there are suspension problems, you might first notice them if your vehicle shakes when you hit the brake pedal.

How Do You Fix a Car That Shakes When Braking?

Now that we’ve gone over some top reasons cars shake when braking, let’s take a look at how to fix the problem. The repair, of course, depends on the cause.

• For warped rotors, you will typically need to replace or resurface the rotors to prevent shaking when braking.
• For worn or damaged brake pads, you will need to replace them with new ones, and the shaking will likely go away.
• For misaligned tires, schedule a tire balancing to restore alignment and eliminate shaking.
• For suspension problems, inspect all parts of the suspension system, including tie rods and ball joints, to assess their condition and determine if replacements are necessary.

Schedule Brake Service Near Thornhill

We’ve answered a lot of frequently asked questions here. Why does your car shake when braking? What causes a car to shake when braking? How do you repair a car that shakes when braking? When you need professional service you can rely on, trust Pfaff Automotive Partners. Contact us to schedule brake service today, and be sure to explore our service tips to keep your vehicle in peak condition between visits. By properly caring for your brakes, you can hit the roads of Vaughan and beyond with ultimate peace of mind.