What Causes the Car Body to Shake When Braking?
3 Answers
The reasons for the car body shaking during braking are as follows: Brake shaking is usually caused by uneven wear of the brake disc: For example, if the outer side is thicker than the inner side or vice versa, during braking, the brake pads clamp the brake disc vertically. If the brake disc is uneven and does not fully contact the brake pads, it will cause shaking. The higher the speed, the more severe the shaking, and the harder it is to stop the car. The use of low-quality brake pads or the initial period after replacing new brake pads can also cause this: Low-quality brake pads contain more metal, making them harder and more prone to resonance when rubbing against the metal brake disc, amplifying vibrations and causing shaking. Therefore, it is advisable to drive cautiously for a certain distance after replacing new brake pads and avoid emergency braking.
Last time I drove my car, the body shook when braking, and it took me a long time to figure out the reason. The most common cause is warped or uneven brake discs, possibly due to frequent hard braking or prolonged driving causing overheating and deformation. Uneven wear on the brake pads can also cause this—if one side is thicker and the other thinner, the uneven pressure during contact makes the body shake. Tire imbalance is another issue, especially noticeable at high speeds, where uneven tire wear causes vibrations. Loose suspension components like ball joints or aging springs can also lead to unstable wheels and body shaking during braking. ABS system malfunctions can also be a culprit—if the sensors fail, braking becomes irregular. I once experienced this myself on a slippery road and almost lost control—it was too dangerous. I recommend going to a professional repair shop for inspection immediately—don’t skimp on costs and ignore potential hazards. Regular maintenance, such as changing brake fluid and balancing tires, can prevent most issues. Safety comes first!
After driving many cars, I've found that brake shudder is mostly caused by uneven brake disc surfaces or thermal deformation, such as from frequent braking on downhill mountain roads. Worn wheel bearings are also not uncommon, causing unstable wheel rotation that transmits vibrations to the body. If brake pads harden or get contaminated with oil, uneven contact force leads to judder. Improper modifications, like poorly adjusted aftermarket brake calipers, can also cause issues. Additionally, dirty or insufficient brake fluid affects hydraulic system stability. Loose suspension components, such as damaged shock absorbers, exacerbate shaking during braking. I usually start by checking if tire pressures are even before considering professional repairs. Regular cleaning of brake components and wheel alignment can significantly reduce shudder likelihood. Remember to address issues early to avoid high-speed accidents—experience tells me not to delay.
