When you hit the brakes you expect a smooth and even movement all the way down. You do not anticipate any shaking but at times your car can vibrate when you brake. Why does this happen? Well, this is a sign that there is a problem. The vibration, also known as brake shuddering, may be experienced on the steering wheel or through the brake pedals. Either way, you need to have it checked soon.
Causes of Car Vibrating when Braking
There are various reasons why your car could shake when you brake. One common cause is an issue with rotors. These are car parts that enable free rotation of wheels when a car is in motion. Brake pads are connected to rotors via a caliper. When one pushes the brake pedals, pressure is applied on the caliper and the rotors causing them to stop rotating making the vehicle stop. Issues with rotors such as warping and uneven wear and tear can cause shaking when brakes are applied.
Worn out or damaged brake pads are another cause of vibrations in cars when brakes are applied. Over time, brake pads lose their functionality due to friction, dirt and oil accumulation. Such brake pads fail to work as required resulting in shaking and other issues such as squeaky noises and slow braking.
You know that your vehicle's alignment should be checked often. What happens if it is not? The vehicle starts shaking as it moves along the road especially at high speeds or braking. Improper alignment will also damage your tires. You may also notice that the car does not move in a straight line when you let go of the steering wheel. Suspension issues may also cause shudders and shake when braking.
What to Do About Brake Shuddering?
Brakes shaking can be a very scary experience. Do not panic. Keep calm and drive to your car mechanic. Allow them to have a look and rectify any issues that may be present. Some solutions you can expect include replacing brake pads, rectifying suspension and alignment issues, and replacing rotors.
To avoid future brake shudder issues, avoid speeding and then braking suddenly. This habit causes increased friction on the braking system and destroys brake pads and rotors. Also, using quality parts helps avoid this issue.