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Car Shaking When Stopping? 3 Possible Reasons Why

AAMCO Utah • Jan 25, 2024

If your car’s giving you the shakes, it’s trying to tell you something. Unless you’re on a bumpy road, it’s likely you’re dealing with a car problem that should be handled by a trusted mechanic. Depending on what’s going on with your vehicle, you may be looking at a brake repair, tire alignment, or engine repair. Let your mechanic know what signs and symptoms you’ve noticed, including the timing of them, and it can help point your mechanic in the right direction.

Looking for the right mechanic to help with your car repair? Visit your local AAMCO Utah auto repair shop and our expert mechanics will handle diagnostics and repairs to get you back on the road again in no time.

1. There’s a Problem with Your Car’s Brake System

Slowing your vehicle relies on a healthy brake system. That means if your car is shaking while you’re trying to slow your car down, one of the common causes is a brake problem. While it’s possible you may need new brake pads or there may be a problem with the calipers, it’s more likely that your brake rotors are the underlying cause. Schedule a brake service with your mechanic so they can diagnose and handle any repairs or other services your car needs.

Your Brake Rotors May be Uneven or Warped

A number of things can cause the surface of your rotors to become uneven, including heat buildup from heavy use or incorrectly installed brake pads. If your rotors are warped or the surface has become uneven, it can cause your car to vibrate or shake when braking. To fix this problem, you’ll either need to have your rotors replaced or leveled, depending on the type of rotors you have and the associated cost.

2. You May Be Due for a Tire Alignment Service

Another common cause behind your car shaking when stopping is the tires. This is especially true if you notice shaking while braking at higher speeds, such as on the highway. If it’s been a while since your last tire alignment service, that’s likely what will restore a smooth ride with your vehicle. During a tire alignment, your mechanic will ensure all tires are angled correctly, preventing vibration while driving or braking and minimizing friction.

If Your Car’s Shaking When Stopping, Your Tires May Be Unbalanced

On the other hand, it’s possible you have a tire that’s unbalanced, so checking your tire pressure and making adjustments may also stop your car from shaking. If your tires are unbalanced, you’re also likely to notice uneven tread wear, so take a look at each of your tires. The increased friction and resistance will also cause your fuel economy to take a hit. Have a mechanic inspect your tires and suspension system to ensure your tires are balanced and aligned, and your suspension system is working smoothly.

3. You May Need an Engine Tune Up Service

A third common cause behind your car shaking is fuel combustion or engine trouble. If you notice your car shaking after braking, when you’re idling, the most likely cause is in your car’s engine. Your mechanic may check your engine mounts to ensure it’s properly secured under the hood of your car. If that’s not the cause of your car shaking, they’ll likely turn to the process of fuel combustion within your car’s engine.

A close up of the engine of a car with the hood open.

If Your Car is Shaking When Idle, it May Be Your Engine or Fuel Delivery System

In order to run smoothly, your car’s engine relies on proper fuel delivery and combustion. When those processes aren’t working the way they should, you may notice a number of problems, including shaking when idling. If the engine isn’t receiving enough fuel or the air-fuel mixture isn’t properly combusted, it can cause engine misfires and a rough idle. Your mechanic will want to inspect your engine’s spark plugs, fuel intake, and fuel delivery system to find any necessary engine repairs.

Car Shaking? Visit Your Local AAMCO Utah Mechanics

Don’t ignore a shaking car. The expert mechanics at your local AAMCO Utah auto repair shop are here to help whether you need car maintenance or diagnostics and repairs. We’ll get you safely and smoothly back on the road again in no time. Give us a call today or easily schedule an appointment with us online.

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