Why Is My Car Shaking? Here's What You Need to Know

As a car owner in Goshen, Indiana , experiencing vibrations or shaking while driving can be alarming, especially at higher speeds. Whether you're on a highway or just cruising around town, a shaking car can leave you wondering what’s going on beneath the hood. But don’t worry — we’ve got you covered! Here’s a look at the possible causes of your car’s shaking and how to handle it.

1. Unbalanced or Damaged Tires

One of the most common causes of a shaking car, especially when driving at higher speeds, is unbalanced or damaged tires. Over time, tires can wear unevenly, causing them to lose their smooth rotation. This imbalance can cause a vibration that you’ll feel through the steering wheel or even the entire car.

What to Do:
Check your tires for any visible signs of damage or uneven wear. If necessary, take your car to a trusted mechanic for a tire balance or alignment. Keeping your tires properly inflated is essential too — underinflated or overinflated tires can also cause vibrations.

2. Worn Out Brake Pads or Rotors

When you apply the brakes, your car may vibrate if the brake pads or rotors are worn out. Worn rotors or brake pads can cause an uneven grip on the brake discs, which leads to the shaking sensation, especially when braking at high speeds.

What to Do:
If your car shakes when braking, it’s important to have your brake system inspected as soon as possible. Replacing worn brake pads or resurfacing the rotors will help restore smooth braking performance and eliminate the vibrations.

3. Suspension System Issues

Your car's suspension system plays a critical role in providing a smooth ride. If components like shocks, struts, or ball joints become worn out, they can cause vibrations throughout the vehicle, particularly when driving over bumps or rough surfaces.

What to Do:
If the shaking happens more when driving over bumps or rough terrain, your suspension system might be the culprit. Have your mechanic inspect the system and replace any worn components.

4. Engine Misfire

An engine misfire can cause your car to shake or even jerk while driving. This occurs when one or more cylinders in your engine fail to ignite properly. Misfires are often caused by issues such as faulty spark plugs, bad fuel injectors, or problems with the ignition system.

What to Do:
If the shaking is accompanied by rough idling or a decrease in power, it's time to visit a mechanic. They can perform a diagnostic test to pinpoint the cause of the misfire and get your engine running smoothly again.

5. Loose or Worn Out Wheel Bearings

Wheel bearings allow your wheels to rotate smoothly. When these bearings wear out, they can cause uneven rotation, leading to vibrations that can be felt throughout the car. This is often a more serious issue that can worsen over time, so it's important to address it quickly.

What to Do:
If you suspect your wheel bearings are to blame, it's crucial to have them checked and replaced before they cause further damage to the wheels or suspension system.

6. Alignment Issues

If your car's wheels are out of alignment, it can cause your car to pull to one side, resulting in uneven tire wear and vibrations at higher speeds. Poor alignment can also lead to a decrease in fuel efficiency and overall handling.

What to Do:
If your car pulls to one side or if you feel vibrations in the steering wheel, it’s a good idea to have the alignment checked. Regular wheel alignment can help prevent shaking and improve the overall driving experience.

Conclusion

Experiencing shaking or vibrations while driving can be a sign of several underlying issues, from tire imbalances to engine misfires. No matter the cause, addressing the problem quickly is essential to keep your car safe and running smoothly. If you're in Goshen, Team Automotive & Parts is here to help! Our experienced mechanics can diagnose and fix the problem, ensuring your car is in top condition for the road ahead.