Your car shaking when you brake is most commonly caused by issues related to the braking system or the tires. Here are the main reasons:
- Warped Brake Rotors: The most frequent cause is warped or damaged brake rotors (discs). When brake rotors wear unevenly or become warped due to heat and use, the brake pads cannot grip the surface evenly, causing vibration or shaking when you press the brakes. This shaking can often be felt through the steering wheel or brake pedal.
- Worn or Uneven Brake Pads: Uneven wear of brake pads also causes vibration as the pads do not press uniformly on the rotors.
- Brake Caliper Problems: If brake calipers stick or fail to apply even pressure on the brake pads, this can lead to shaking and even cause the car to pull to one side while braking.
- Tire Issues: Unbalanced, misaligned, or worn tires can cause shaking that worsens when braking.
- Suspension or Wheel Bearing Problems: Worn suspension components or damaged wheel bearings can also contribute to instability and shaking when braking.
To fix this, you should have a professional inspect your brake rotors, pads, calipers, tires, and suspension system. Warped rotors often need to be resurfaced or replaced, and worn brake pads should be replaced. Ensuring your tires are balanced and aligned can also help eliminate shaking during braking. Driving habits (e.g., sudden braking) can accelerate wear on these components, so smooth driving can help reduce these issues. Regular maintenance is key to preventing shaking when braking.
