My Car Is Shaking When I Drive
When your car shakes while driving, it could be caused by a few different issues. Here's a breakdown of the most common reasons:
1. Tire Problems
- Unbalanced or Misaligned Tires: If your tires are unbalanced or misaligned, it can cause the car to shake, especially at higher speeds.
- Tire Wear: Worn-out tires can create uneven vibrations. Check for uneven tread wear.
- Solution: A wheel alignment or tire balancing service could resolve this. Wheel alignment is recommended every 10K miles, according to Wayside Garage’s maintenance plan.
2. Brake Issues
- Warped Brake Rotors: If your car shakes when you brake, the problem may be warped brake rotors. This can happen over time due to heat and pressure from braking.
- Solution: A brake system inspection can identify and fix the problem.
3. Suspension Problems
- Worn Suspension Components: Shaking can also be caused by worn shocks, struts, or control arms. These components help keep your ride smooth, and if they’re worn, you’ll feel vibrations.
- Solution: Suspension components like shocks and struts should be replaced every 70K miles.
4. Engine or Transmission Issues
- Engine Misfire or Faulty Mounts: Sometimes engine-related problems like misfires or worn engine mounts can make the car shake.
- Transmission Issues: A failing transmission can also cause a shaking sensation during acceleration or shifting.
- Solution: A comprehensive inspection will help pinpoint if the issue lies in the engine or transmission.
5. Power Steering Problems
- Steering System Issues: If the car shakes when turning, it could be a power steering problem.
- Solution: You might need a power steering fluid service, which is recommended every 30K miles.
If you’re unsure about the exact cause, visiting Wayside Garage for a complimentary inspection as part of their regular maintenance plan can help you identify the issue quickly and get the problem fixed before it worsens.
Check out our YouTube channel for more maintenance tips.