The steering wheel shaking when braking is a common issue with several potential causes, mainly related to the braking system and wheel components. Here are the primary reasons and explanations:
- Warped Brake Rotors: The most frequent cause is warped or uneven brake rotors. Brake rotors are flat metal discs the brake pads press against to slow the car. When rotors get warped due to heat or wear, the pads press unevenly, causing vibrations felt in the steering wheel while braking.
- Worn or Dirty Brake Pads: Brake pads that are excessively worn or contaminated with dirt or debris can cause pulsations during braking as they do not grip the rotors evenly.
- Unbalanced or Worn Tires: Wheels that are not balanced or tires that are worn unevenly can transfer vibrations to the steering wheel, especially at higher speeds or when braking.
- Brake Caliper Issues: Faulty brake calipers that do not press the pads evenly or have stuck guide pins can result in uneven braking force and vibrations.
- Suspension and Steering Components: Loose or worn suspension parts like control arms, ball joints, or tie rods can cause the front wheels to shake, especially under the extra load during braking.
- Brake Disc Alignment and Thickness Variation: Poor installation of brake discs or rust and dirt build-up can create uneven surfaces, leading to steering wheel vibrations.
To fix the issue, checking and potentially resurfacing or replacing warped rotors is often required, along with inspecting and replacing worn brake pads and ensuring tires are balanced and in good condition. Suspension and caliper components should also be checked for wear or damage. In summary, the steering wheel shakes when braking mainly due to warped rotors, worn brake pads, tire issues, or suspension problems that cause uneven braking and vibration transfer to the wheel. Prompt inspection and repair will ensure safer and smoother braking.
