Why Is My Car Shaking?

Wobbles, shakes, and vibrations are not normal car behavior. If your car is exhibiting one or more of these symptoms, it's time to make an appointment at our repair center for an evaluation. A mechanic will gladly take a look at your car, inside and out, to figure out where the problem lies. Since the shaking that you're noticing may be the result of damage or a part failure, it's critical to have the car looked at as soon as possible before more serious damage sets in.

Wheels

The wheels and tires are the first point of contact that your car makes with the ground. Therefore, shaking related to wheels and tires is one of the most common complaints among car owners. Wheels that aren't balanced correctly or have parts that are not tight enough may cause the car's wobbling and shaking. The wheels can become damaged as well, including from hitting obstacles or getting into an accident.

Tires

The tires on your car have a certain lifespan of safe use before they need to be replaced. One way to tell the condition of the tires is by checking their tread. If there isn't enough tread remaining on the surface of the tire, or if the tread appears to be worn unevenly on one or more tires, you may have found the cause of the car's shaking. Even if it seems minor, damage to the tires may cause them to drive improperly and, in turn, lead to excess vibration. Regular tire maintenance can help detect and stop tire-related shaking before it happens.

Engine

A few different problems can cause the engine to make the car shake. Engine problems can arise along with transmission problems. Engines may also make loud noises if they are not running properly. If you notice loud sounds and shaking when driving or when starting the car, the engine is the likely cause. An engine's radiator can lead to shaking if it breaks, and the spark plugs may be due for replacement. The engine's air filter can also get clogged with debris and need to be changed or replaced.

Brakes

The brakes also take a beating from the road. Brake rotors help bring the car to a stop. They are normally kept from hitting against each other by brake pads. However, when the brake pads wear out, they no longer keep the rotors from touching, which makes the brakes wear out quickly. Cars that shake when stopping may have brake problems. Additionally, worn brakes might produce a metallic or grating sound when the vehicle stops.

Axles

The CV joints on the axles have a limited lifespan. If they wear out, debris can get into the system and lead to shaking. Shaking in the axles can also come from damage, such as an accident.

Contact us today to diagnose and repair your car's shaking.