Why is your car vibrating when the brakes are applied?
A vibrating steering wheel can be caused by problems with your brakes, tyres or suspension.
Vibrations are a common reason for concern when it comes to driving. This is because it usually indicates that a part is loose or not functioning properly. If your car vibrates when the brakes are applied, it is easy to assume that the problem is caused by part of your braking system. However, there are several other things which can cause your car to vibrate. Brake vibrations can be dangerous because they limit the control you have over your car while it is braking.
If you’re not sure what is causing your car to vibrate, bring your car into Grimmer Motors for a quick and easy diagnosis.
Common causes of vibration when braking:
Tyres in need of air or replacement
Tyre problems are the most common cause of a car vibrating when the brakes are applied. When one or more tyres lose weight and size, it will affects the distribution of your vehicle’s weight, causing it to lean. When going high speeds or braking, this can result in shaking which can be felt through the steering wheel. When this happens, check the condition, tread depth and air in your tyres.
How to decrease wear on your tyres
Suspension joints in need of replacement
Over time, the suspension joints will become worn. This can lead to excessive shaking when the brakes are applied. You may also notice a loud, low-pitched noise or rattle coming from your brakes when this happens. To keep your car safe, the suspension joints (such as steering rod ends and ball joints) will be checked at every Warrant of Fitness ans will need to be replaced if they fail.
Steering & Suspension Repairs in Hamilton
Brake rotors/discs in need of replacement or resurfacing
The brake rotor is a metal disc which spins rapidly. The brake pads apply friction to it, causing your car to slow down. If the brake rotors become damaged, warped or unevenly worn, they may need to be replaced or resurfaced.
Brake rotor replacement in Hamilton
Bad wheel bearings
The purpose of wheel bearings is to help the wheels spin with as little friction as possible. Over time, the wheel bearings will lose effectiveness, resulting in movement and vibrations coming from the wheels.
New wheel bearings in Hamilton
Brake caliper stuck or damaged
The brake caliper is the mechanism which squeezes the brake pads against the rotor when the brakes are applied. If it becomes stuck or damaged, your car will have issues when it comes to braking. This includes vibrations, loud noises and pulling to one side.
Car Brake & Wheel Diagnostics & Part Replacement in Hamilton
Is your car vibrating, producing loud noise or pulling to one side when you use the brakes? If so, we can help! At Grimmer Motors, our team of skilled mechanics can quickly locate the cause of your braking problem. From there, we can provide excellent services to get your car working correctly again. If you’ve failed a Warrant of Fitness due to these issues, we can do fix everything needed for your car to pass.
For car brake replacements and diagnostics in Hamilton, contact Grimmer Motors today!