Why Does My Car Shake When I Brake? Common Causes Explained!

February 7, 2024

Fixing Car Shaking When Braking: Tips from Wayside Garage in Seaside, California

Do you feel your car shaking when you hit the brakes? Don't worry! Lots of people have this issue. In this blog post, we'll talk about why your car shakes when you brake and how to fix it. We'll keep it simple, so it's easy to understand.

Understanding the Problem:

Have you ever pressed the brakes and felt your car shake? That's what we're talking about. Sabrina and Stacey, two car experts, will help us figure out why this happens.

Exploring Potential Causes:

Sabrina and Stacey say a few things could be causing your car to shake:

- Your tires might be unbalanced.
- The shocks and struts could be worn out.
- Some parts like ball joints or tie rod ends might be loose.
- Your brakes might be old and need fixing.
- Brake rotors or drums might be warped.
- Your anti-lock brake system might not be working right.

Finding Solutions:

With so many reasons, fixing your shaking car might seem hard. But Sabrina and Stacey have simple tips to help. They say it's important to book a visit with a certified car technician who can find and fix the problem right.

Taking Action:

Ready to fix your car? Follow these steps:

1. Call Wayside Garage at (831)-899-2425 and book a visit with a certified technician.
2. Let the team at Wayside Garage check your car and find out what's wrong.
3. Reach out to Wayside Garage if you need help or have questions.

Feeling your car shake can be scary. But with Sabrina and Stacey's advice, you can fix the problem and drive safely again.

Don't wait to fix your shaking car. Get help today and enjoy a smoother ride! Check out this video for more information.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

ARE MY BRAKES SAFE?

By Stacey Diaz • October 14, 2025

October is more than just pumpkin patches and crisp fall air. For many families in Monterey, it's also the start of darker evenings, wetter roads, and more time on the road. That’s why October is the perfect time to think about one of the most important safety features on your vehicle: your brakes. At Wayside Garage, we participate in the Brakes for Breasts campaign every October. It's not just about brake repair — it’s about raising awareness, supporting breast cancer research, and keeping our community safe on the roads. ________________________________________ What Are the Signs Your Brakes Might Need Attention? Your brakes are your first line of defense in an emergency. If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, it’s time to get your brakes checked: • Squealing or grinding noises • A soft or “spongy” brake pedal • Car pulling to one side when braking • Vibration or shaking when you press the brakes • Increased stopping distance Ignoring these signs can lead to expensive repairs down the road — or worse, a serious accident. We always say: if it feels off, bring it in. ________________________________________ Why Brake Inspections Matter More in Fall With more rain, shorter days, and holiday travel ahead, your brakes are under more stress in the fall. At Wayside Garage, we see an uptick in emergency brake repairs this time of year — many of which could have been avoided with a quick inspection. Our certified technicians will perform a comprehensive brake check, looking at: • Brake pads and rotors • Brake fluid level and condition • Brake lines and hoses • Calipers and hardware And if you’re part of our Wayside Garage Maintenance Plan, your brake inspections are included with your scheduled services. That’s one more reason to stay on track with routine care. ________________________________________ Brakes for Breasts: Repair With a Purpose Every October, we join auto shops nationwide for the Brakes for Breasts campaign. Here’s how it works at Wayside Garage: • You get free brake pads (you only pay for labor and any additional parts if needed). • We donate 10% of the brake job to the Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Vaccine Fund. It’s a meaningful way to protect your family on the road while supporting groundbreaking research that could change lives. ________________________________________ Why Choose Wayside Garage for Brake Service? We know you have options when it comes to brake repair in Monterey. So why do so many drivers trust us? • Family-owned and operated since 1946 • ASE-certified technicians who care about doing it right • Honest inspections and clear explanations • Free digital vehicle health reports • A shop built on integrity, hospitality, and professionalism When you bring your vehicle to us, you're not just another ticket — you're part of the Wayside Garage family. ________________________________________ Schedule Your Brake Inspection Today October is the best time to have your brakes checked — and support a great cause while you're at it. Whether you’re noticing a problem or just want peace of mind before the holidays, give us a call or schedule an appointment online. Let's keep your vehicle — and your community — safe this fall.