My Car Shakes When I Brake From 60 To 80

My Car Shakes When I Brake from 60 to 80: Diagnosing the Problem

If your car shakes violently when braking, especially at higher speeds like 60 to 80 mph, it's a serious issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this could lead to a dangerous accident. This article will explore the common causes of brake shake and guide you towards identifying the problem in your vehicle. Safety is paramount; if you're unsure, take your car to a qualified mechanic.

Why is my car shaking when braking? Brake pulsation or shaking at high speeds points to problems within the braking system, often related to the rotors, calipers, or even suspension components. Let's delve into the potential culprits:

Warped Brake Rotors

This is the most frequent cause of brake shudder. Overheating during hard braking or prolonged use, especially at high speeds, can warp the brake rotors. This uneven surface causes the brake pads to grab unevenly, resulting in the noticeable shaking sensation. Signs of warped rotors often include a pulsing brake pedal and a grinding noise.

Worn or Damaged Brake Pads

Severely worn brake pads can also contribute to brake shake. Uneven wear can cause inconsistent pressure distribution, leading to vibrations. Look for thin pads or pads with uneven wear. Replacing worn pads is crucial for safety and proper braking performance.

Caliper Issues

A sticking or seized brake caliper can put uneven pressure on the rotor, causing shaking. A faulty caliper might not retract fully, keeping the brake pad in constant contact with the rotor, leading to overheating and further damage. Listen for unusual noises from the brakes; a grinding or squealing sound could indicate a caliper problem.

Suspension Problems

While less common, suspension issues can sometimes manifest as shaking during braking. Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, or other suspension components can create instability, which becomes amplified during braking. This will often present with additional symptoms like wandering or pulling.

Wheel Bearings

Failing wheel bearings can cause vibrations that worsen during braking. These vibrations are typically felt throughout the steering wheel and not just the brake pedal. A humming or growling noise, particularly at higher speeds, is a strong indicator of worn bearings.

Out-of-Balance or Damaged Wheels/Tires

While less likely to cause shaking specifically during braking, an imbalance or damage to your wheels or tires can certainly exacerbate the issue or create similar vibrations. Consider having your wheels balanced and your tires inspected for damage.

Other potential causes:

• Contamination: Brake fluid contamination can lead to reduced braking effectiveness and uneven pressure distribution.
• ABS issues: While less common, problems with the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) can sometimes lead to unusual vibrations.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. Visual Inspection: Carefully examine your brake pads, rotors, and calipers for wear, damage, or abnormalities.
2. Test Drive: Pay close attention to when and how the shaking occurs. Does it happen only during hard braking, or even during light braking?
3. Professional Diagnosis: If you're not comfortable performing a thorough inspection yourself, take your car to a qualified mechanic for a professional diagnosis.

Conclusion:

Brake shake is a serious safety concern. While some potential causes can be addressed with relatively simple maintenance, others require professional attention. Addressing the underlying issue promptly is vital to ensure safe and reliable braking performance. Don't delay – prioritize your safety and get your vehicle checked as soon as possible.