Does your car shake and vibrate? Does that shaking happen even when you’re driving on smooth surfaces? Several potential issues could be causing those bad vibrations.
Wheel and Tire Trouble
A common cause of shaking is unbalanced tires. Tire issues can cause vibrations that only happen at certain speeds. Check your tire pressure regularly, and keep an eye on your treads. If balancing your tires doesn’t help the shaking, you may need a tire rotation or even a new set of tires. Misaligned wheels can have a similar effect. Keeping your wheels aligned will also improve fuel efficiency and help your tires last longer.
Suspension Trouble
Since your car’s suspension system ensures that your ride is smooth and relatively bump-free, a failing suspension can lead to a rough ride. Old and worn-out shocks, struts, or bearings can lead to a vibration that seems to center in the steering wheel. Suspension problems will only get worse with time, so be sure to have your car checked out as soon as possible.
Brake Trouble
If you feel the shaking only when your car is braking, the brakes are probably the source of the problem. You may also notice your car pulling to the side as you slow down. Brake pads and rotors wear out over time and need to be replaced. Your brakes are the most important safety feature on your vehicle, so be sure to have them inspected regularly.
Engine Trouble
Malfunctioning spark plugs can cause your engine to burn fuel unevenly, causing the whole engine to rumble. This shaking is often more noticeable while idling or driving slowly. Clogged filters or fuel injectors can also cause the air and fuel mixture in your engine to be off. As your engine accelerate and struggles to output power, it can begin to shake the entire car.
If your car keeps shaking, schedule an appointment with the team at Affordable Automotive. Our ASE-certified technicians have the skills and experience needed to quickly diagnose the problem and make any necessary repairs.