What Causes the Brake Pedal to Vibrate and Rebound?
2 Answers
Brake pedal vibration and rebound may occur due to the following reasons: 1. Low gear: For manual transmission vehicles, when the vehicle is in a low gear with high torque, both the brake pedal and clutch pedal may experience slight vibrations, which is normal. For automatic transmission vehicles, when waiting at a red light with the gear in D and the brake pedal pressed, pedal vibration is also normal. Shifting to N or P gear will significantly reduce this sensation. 2. Tire wear: Uneven tread wear on both sides of the tire or differing tire pressures can also cause brake pedal vibration. 3. Brake disc: Deformation of the brake disc can lead to vibration, especially during sudden braking. In such cases, it is generally recommended to replace the brake disc.
I've encountered this issue several times - when I slam the brakes on my old car, the brake pedal vibrates and kicks back noticeably, feeling like someone's kicking the soles of your feet. Usually this means the ABS system is working to prevent wheel lock-up on slippery surfaces, but sometimes it's caused by warped brake rotors. When brake rotors overheat then suddenly cool down, their surfaces become uneven, causing vibration from uneven friction between pads and rotors during braking. Additionally, unevenly worn brake pads or oil-contaminated surfaces can also cause this. If accompanied by screeching noises or longer stopping distances, be extra cautious - it might indicate air in the hydraulic system. I immediately pulled over to check warning lights, then headed straight to the repair shop. Safety first - I make it a habit to have brake rotor and pad thickness checked during biannual maintenance to avoid accidents during long drives. Replacing the brake components solved the problem, but never try to save money on this - driving safety is paramount.