Your car shaking when you brake can be caused by several common issues, primarily related to your braking system or tires:
- Warped or Damaged Brake Rotors: This is the most frequent cause. Brake rotors can warp from excessive heat or wear. When warped, the brake pads don't grip evenly, causing a vibration or shaking feeling in the brake pedal or steering wheel when braking.
- Uneven or Worn Brake Pads: Brake pads that have worn unevenly or have dirt/debris can cause the car to pulsate or shake during braking.
- Stuck or Faulty Brake Calipers: Calipers press brake pads against the rotors. If a caliper sticks or fails to apply even pressure, it can cause vibrations.
- Tire Issues: Worn, unbalanced, or misaligned tires can also cause shaking, especially at higher speeds or during braking.
- Suspension or Steering Problems: Worn suspension parts or steering components can contribute to shaking when braking.
- Other Components: Loose wheel bearings or other brake system faults may also cause vibration.
If the shaking occurs only or mostly when applying the brakes and is felt in the steering wheel or brake pedal, warped brake rotors and brake pad issues are likely culprits. For safety, it's recommended to have your braking system and tires inspected and repaired by a professional as soon as possible to prevent further damage or dangerous driving conditions.
