What to know
- If your steering wheel shakes when braking and you suspect that worn or damaged suspension components are the cause, you’ll need to have the suspension inspected by a qualified mechanic.
- If your steering wheel shakes when braking and you suspect that loose wheel bearings are the cause, you’ll need to have the wheel bearings tightened.
- A mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem and perform the necessary repairs to fix the steering wheel shaking when braking issue.
Steering wheel shaking when braking is a common issue that can be caused by a variety of factors. While it’s usually not a sign of a major problem, it can be an annoyance and a safety hazard. In this blog post, we’ll explore the most common reasons why your steering wheel shakes when braking and provide solutions to resolve the issue.
Causes of Steering Wheel Shaking When Braking
1. Warped Brake Rotors
Warped brake rotors are one of the most common causes of steering wheel shaking when braking. When brake rotors become warped, they can cause the brake pads to make uneven contact with the rotors, which results in vibrations that are transmitted through the suspension and steering system.
2. Unbalanced Wheels
Unbalanced wheels can also cause steering wheel shaking when braking. When wheels are not properly balanced, they can create a wobble that is amplified when the brakes are applied.
3. Worn or Damaged Suspension Components
Worn or damaged suspension components, such as ball joints, tie rods, and control arms, can allow the wheels to move out of alignment, which can lead to steering wheel shaking when braking.
4. Loose Wheel Bearings
Loose wheel bearings can allow the wheels to wobble, which can also cause steering wheel shaking when braking.
5. Bad Brake Calipers
Bad brake calipers can cause the brake pads to apply uneven pressure to the rotors, which can result in steering wheel shaking when braking.
6. Worn or Damaged Tires
Worn or damaged tires can create an uneven contact patch with the road, which can cause steering wheel shaking when braking.
7. Other Factors
In some cases, steering wheel shaking when braking can be caused by other factors, such as:
- A loose or damaged steering rack
- A faulty power steering pump
- A problem with the brake master cylinder
Solutions to Steering Wheel Shaking When Braking
1. Replace Warped Brake Rotors
If your steering wheel shakes when braking and you suspect that warped brake rotors are the cause, you’ll need to replace the rotors. This is a relatively simple repair that can be done at most auto repair shops.
2. Balance Your Wheels
If your steering wheel shakes when braking and you suspect that unbalanced wheels are the cause, you’ll need to have your wheels balanced. This is a quick and inexpensive service that can be done at most tire shops.
3. Inspect and Replace Worn or Damaged Suspension Components
If your steering wheel shakes when braking and you suspect that worn or damaged suspension components are the cause, you’ll need to have the suspension inspected by a qualified mechanic. The mechanic will be able to identify any worn or damaged components and replace them as necessary.
4. Tighten Loose Wheel Bearings
If your steering wheel shakes when braking and you suspect that loose wheel bearings are the cause, you’ll need to have the wheel bearings tightened. This is a relatively simple repair that can be done at most auto repair shops.
5. Replace Bad Brake Calipers
If your steering wheel shakes when braking and you suspect that bad brake calipers are the cause, you’ll need to replace the brake calipers. This is a more complex repair that should be done by a qualified mechanic.
6. Replace Worn or Damaged Tires
If your steering wheel shakes when braking and you suspect that worn or damaged tires are the cause, you’ll need to replace the tires. This is a relatively simple repair that can be done at most tire shops.
7. Check for Other Issues
If you’ve tried all of the above solutions and your steering wheel still shakes when braking, you should have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to check for other potential issues.
Seeking Professional Help
If you’re not comfortable performing any of the repairs listed above, it’s best to seek professional help from a qualified mechanic. A mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem and perform the necessary repairs to fix the steering wheel shaking when braking issue.
Wrapping Up
Steering wheel shaking when braking can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous issue. By understanding the common causes of this problem and following the solutions outlined in this guide, you can get your vehicle back in good working order and enjoy a smooth and safe driving experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does my steering wheel shake when I brake at high speeds?
A: Steering wheel shaking when braking at high speeds is usually caused by warped brake rotors or unbalanced wheels.
Q: Can I drive with a steering wheel that shakes when I brake?
A: It’s not recommended to drive with a steering wheel that shakes when you brake, as it can be a safety hazard.
Q: How much does it cost to fix a steering wheel that shakes when braking?
A: The cost to fix a steering wheel that shakes when braking will vary depending on the cause of the problem. However, most repairs can be done for a few hundred dollars.
