Why does my car shake?
This is a common question, and the answer depends on what’s happening under the car. Some vibrations are minor; others signal a safety concern. That’s why it’s important to have your vehicle inspected by an ASE certified repair center to confirm the cause. Driving vibrations occur when there is a worn/lose component or an imbalance in a rotating part. Determining how and when the shake occurs helps narrow the possible causes. Here are a few symptoms to consider and some possible causes associated with each.
Why does my car shake when I hit the brakes?
If you car shakes only when brakes, it’s brake pulsation, usually caused by a warped rotor or drum. Pressing the brake pedal while the tires of spinning squeezes the warped rotor, transferring movement to the suspension or steering linkage (if in the front). Only when braking, you might feel a shake in the steering wheel, seat, or pulsation in brake pedal itself. Longer trips or hard stops can make the vibration worse.
Why does my car shake only when I’m on HWY 290?
Shaking at higher speeds, generally more noticeable around 55-65mph, is commonly due to tire imbalance. Through normal driving, the tire will lose rubber due to road friction causing a wear pattern, in turn changing the tires’ balance. Tire balance is very important to a smooth ride and should be checked about once a year.
Why does my car shake when I hit bumps or any time the car is moving?
These vibrations are warning signs, often appearing on higher-mileage vehicles. They usually stem from worn driveline or suspension parts and can be accompanied by clunks, clicks, squeaks, or growls. CV axles, drive shafts, and wheel bearings create repetitive vibrations that intensify with speed, while worn suspension components—ball joints, bushings, track bars, and shocks—cause more erratic shakes that worsen over time. Suspension parts keep the vehicle stable and the tires pointed straight. Like the sole of your shoe reveals that you scuff your heal when you walk, the tire tread wear pattern can tell you if your suspension needs attention.
Why does my car shake all the time, even when it’s not moving?
This could be an engine mount or an engine performance issue. Engines are designed to operate smoothly but even a balanced engine will have a slight vibration. Engine mounts use rubber or hydraulic bushings to isolate normal engine vibrations from the chassis. When these bushings fail, vibrations transfer into the passenger compartment—and if the check engine light is on or the engine is underperforming, the shaking can become much worse.
So, if you have ever asked the question “Why does my car shake?” see if you can answer a few questions before you bring your car in for inspection:
- When does the shake occur?
- How fast are you traveling before you feel it?
- How long does it last?
- Is there any noise associated with it?
- What part of the car do you feel it in?
- Does it get worse the longer you drive?
- Does it occur more at different times of the day?
- How long has it been happening?
- Does it happen every time?
Answering these questions helps a technician identify the cause of a vibration. Sometimes it’s helpful to request a ride-along with the service advisor at drop-off.
Finally, find an ASE certified repair center you trust. Keep up with regular maintenance and have a full vehicle inspection including alignment checks and tire balance performed every 12 months. Remember, preventative maintenance is always cheaper than having to perform a repair once something breaks.
