Why Is My Car Shaking?

Shaking or vibrating in your car can be annoying and unpleasant. It may be barely noticeable and sometimes gradually worsen, or it may be intense to start with. There are many possible causes of your vehicle's shaking. Some problems are more serious than others, which is why you should always visit a certified mechanic to figure out what's causing the problem in your car. Before your appointment, however, you may be able to do some troubleshooting on your own to figure out where the problem comes from.

Tires

Your car's tires are the main point of contact with the road. Therefore, they will gradually lose their grip and inflation levels. Because they are put under so much pressure, even from daily driving, the tires should be routinely inspected several times each year by a qualified mechanic to look for hidden problems that you might not be able to detect yourself. If the tires aren't properly aligned or rotated, the vehicle might shake as a result. The tires should be checked for proper tread levels and evaluated for uneven wear, explaining the shaking.

Wheels

Wheels that are not balanced correctly or have become damaged can also result in the car's shaking. Even seemingly minor damage can make the wheels dented and fail to rotate correctly. If you hit something on the road, or if the wheels aren't adjusted properly, some of their components can loosen and cause wobbling or shaking, especially as you accelerate. Even if you've been in a minor car accident, have a mechanic check out the wheels to ensure they're not damaged.

Brakes

Faulty brakes might also explain the shaking in your car. If the shaking begins or gets worse when you apply the brakes, the issue generally lies in the braking system. If you have disc brakes, which are the most common type of brake, the rotors should be checked for damage and excess wear. Any unusual wear or strain on the rotors can make them dented or warped, which then causes them to lose their evenness and uniformity. That, in turn, makes them hard for the brake pads to grip. When the brake pads can't grip the rotors' surfaces, you'll notice vibrations and shaking due to the uneven pressure.

Engine

The engine is another place you should check if the car is shaking. The engine's problems might range from minor and straightforward fixes like making sure the air filter is clean to more significant issues such as a broken radiator. If you drive an older car, have a mechanic check the spark plugs to see if they are worn out.

Axles

Driving too quickly over speed bumps, hitting potholes, or running over curbs can damage the axles on your car. If the axles are damaged or pulled out of position, the suspension system will start to vibrate. The vibration usually worsens with acceleration.

If your car is shaking and vibrating, don't hesitate to contact our Irving dealership for repairs.