Why Does My Car Shake When I Brake? (And Is It Safe?)
There is nothing quite as unsettling as feeling your steering wheel pulse or your brake pedal vibrate when you’re trying to slow down. In the auto repair world, we call this brake pulsation, and it’s one of the most common issues we see at Priebe’s Auto Clinic.
While it might start as a minor annoyance, a shaking car is often a sign that your braking system is compromised. Here is a look at what is likely causing the shimmy and why you shouldn’t wait to have it inspected.
The Most Common Culprit: Warped Rotors
In 90% of the cases we see in Oklahoma City, the shaking is caused by the brake rotors. Your rotors are the metal discs that your brake pads clamp onto to stop the wheels.
Over time, the extreme heat generated by braking can cause these metal discs to “warp” or develop uneven thickness. When the pads hit those high and low spots on a warped rotor, the vibration travels up the steering column and directly into your hands. Below you can see a rotor that was warped and required replacement. We generally replace Brake Pads and Rotors at the same time. This ensures no reoccurring issues!
Beyond the Brakes: Other Potential Causes
While rotors are the usual suspects, our technicians also look for these secondary issues during a diagnostic:
- Worn Suspension Components: If your ball joints or tie rods are loose, the force of braking can cause the car to wander or shake.
- Sticking Brake Calipers: If a caliper doesn’t retract fully, it can cause excessive heat, leading to warped rotors and a persistent vibration.
- Out-of-Balance Tires: Sometimes a shake that feels like a brake issue is actually a tire that has lost a weight or developed a flat spot.
The Technician’s Perspective: How We Diagnose It
To provide the most accurate repair, we don’t just “guess” that it’s the rotors. Our team uses a precision tool called a Dial Indicator to measure “runout.” We check the rotor’s surface down to a thousandth of an inch. If the measurement is outside of factory specifications, we know exactly why you’re feeling that shake.
Is It Safe to Drive?
Technically, your car will still stop with warped rotors, but your stopping distance is increased, and your Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) may not function correctly in an emergency. More importantly, the vibration puts unnecessary stress on your wheel bearings and suspension, leading to more expensive repairs down the road.
Experience the Difference at Priebe’s Auto Clinic
At Priebe’s Auto Clinic, we believe in fixing it right the first time. We perform a Digital Vehicle Inspection with every brake service, so you can see exactly what our technicians see. Whether you need a precision rotor resurfacing or a full replacement, we’ll get you back on the road with smooth, quiet, and safe stopping power.
Stop the shake today. 📍 4014 N Barnes Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 📞 Call (405) 523-2172 🌐 PACOKC.COM
