Why is there severe jerking when braking slowly to a stop?
2 Answers
Severe jerking when braking slowly to a stop is mainly caused by excessively worn brake pads that need replacement. Here are methods to determine when to replace brake pads: 1. Judge by the wear condition of the brake pads: A new brake pad is generally about 1.5cm thick, and the thickness gradually decreases with continuous friction during use. When visual inspection shows that the brake pad thickness is only about 1/3 of the original thickness (approximately 0.5cm), the owner should increase the frequency of self-inspection and be ready to replace them at any time. 2. Judge by sound: If the limit indicators on both sides of the brake pads are directly rubbing against the brake disc, it indicates that the brake pads have exceeded their limit. If a hissing sound accompanies light braking, it means the brake pads must be replaced immediately.
Having repaired cars for many years, I've encountered numerous similar issues where drivers report noticeable jerking when braking slowly to a stop. This is often caused by uneven brake rotors, as frequent hard braking can warp the discs or create surface irregularities. Check if the brake caliper pistons are sticking or lack lubrication, which can exacerbate low-speed vibrations. Worn suspension components like shock absorbers can also amplify the shaking, especially when shock fluid leaks cause vehicle instability. In automatic transmission vehicles, mismatched responses from the transmission lock-up mechanism at low speeds can also induce jerking. I recommend promptly visiting a repair shop to measure rotor flatness with specialized tools or replace worn pads. Delaying may lead to tire wear or even increase rear-end collision risks. Regular inspections of the braking system and suspension maintenance are key preventive measures.
