What Causes Brake Vibration When Braking at High Speeds?
3 Answers
Car brake vibration when braking at high speeds is caused by: 1. Uneven brake disc surface with excessive radial runout; 2. Significant deviation in wheel alignment data; 3. Excessive or insufficient tire pressure; 4. Abnormal tire wear; 5. Rim deformation. The maintenance methods for brakes include: 1. High-temperature protection to prevent brake system corrosion, avoid brake pad seizure due to high temperatures, and eliminate brake squeal; 2. Regular replacement of brake fluid; 3. Cleaning oil stains, dirt, and friction dust from brake discs, brake drums, and any components to ensure good heat dissipation of the brake discs; 4. Regularly checking the thickness of brake pads or brake shoes.
Many car enthusiasts have complained about experiencing vibrations when braking on the highway. The main cause is usually warped brake rotors. High-speed braking generates intense heat, and if the rotors are uneven, the friction becomes unbalanced, leading to vibrations. Additionally, improper tire balancing or loose suspension components can also cause shaking, which becomes more noticeable at high speeds. It's recommended to prioritize inspecting the brake rotors and pads, replacing them if they're excessively worn. You can also test for vibrations by braking at low speeds—if the shaking only occurs at high speeds, it's likely a rotor issue. Visit a professional repair shop promptly, as delaying can compromise braking performance and create safety hazards. Don’t overlook this during routine maintenance; replacing brake rotors typically costs just a few hundred bucks, far cheaper than dealing with an accident later.
As a frequent driver, I'd like to share my experience with high-speed brake vibration. Last time during a long drive, when I braked at speeds over 100 km/h, the car shook violently, feeling like an earthquake. After inspection, I learned it was due to warped brake rotors, likely caused by sudden braking in rainy conditions that overheated and deformed the rotor surfaces. Poor tire balance or loose suspension connections can also cause this, especially under high-speed pressure which magnifies such issues. My advice: don't push through it—first pull over safely to check tire pressure and wheel nut tightness. If it's not a simple fix, head to a repair shop. Post-repair vibrations reduced significantly. A reminder to all: never underestimate high-speed braking issues, safety comes first.
