Why Does My Car Shake When Braking?

The Brake Rotors Are Warped

Why my car trembles when I brake? The most common reason is that the brake rotors are warped or damaged. Your brake rotors work in tandem with the brake pads to stop your wheels from spinning. As the rotors age, they get consistently thinner from the regular wear and tear of driving, which leaves them susceptible to warping and other types of damage. A great deal of heat is generated when you apply the brakes, and it’s that heat that can warp the rotors. When the rotors are warped, your brake pads can slip, creating a trembling sensation that you’ll feel in the brake pedal.

How often should brake rotors be replaced? Most vehicles require a replacement by the 70,000-mile mark, but the service may be needed sooner if your driving habits and the local climate/road conditions call for it.

Are Braking Rotors Causing the Vibration?

My car wobbles when braking. Are you wondering about your car wobbling or the vibrations when braking at high speed, or that your car vibrates when braking in general? If you notice a vibration or feel the shaking in your steering wheel and brake pedal, it could be the rotors. The rotors get pressed by the brake pad to help slow your Mercedes-Benz vehicle down. If the rotors are not balanced, this can cause the vibrating tremors that you’re feeling in the steering wheel and pedal.

The Tires Require Service

The next possible reason a car trembles when shaking is that your tires need service. They could be out of alignment, or they might just be getting old and need to be replaced. Either way, your suspension is working overtime trying to keep things balanced as you drive. Hitting a curb or a pothole in Monroe can be enough to knock things out of alignment, and you’ll feel the effect in your steering wheel when you brake.

Having your tires rotated regularly and inspected will help to avoid issues like those outlined above. Most vehicles require a tire rotation every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, but you can check your owner’s manual for an OEM-specific recommendation.

There’s an Issue With Steering and Suspension Components

If your steering or suspension systems require attention, you’ll feel shaking not only when you brake but also when you’re driving on the roads. There are some instances, however, when a particular damaged part like an axle shaft could centralize the shaking to only happen when you’re coming to a stop.

When you have your vehicle in for oil changes or tire rotations, it’s recommended to also request a general vehicle inspection. During the inspection, all of your vehicle’s vital systems, including steering and suspension, will be checked. If there’s an issue, your service tech can let you know so you can act proactively.

How to Fix a Shaking Car

The question, “Why is my Mercedes-Benz shaking when I brake?” can lead to several answers. This is why it’s best to have your vehicle inspected by a factory-trained and certified mechanic who can pinpoint the exact problem and remedy it, allowing you to safely get back on the road in West Chester. Every last one of your vehicle’s components should be given proper attention, but the brakes, especially, should never be ignored. If you suspect an issue, you can schedule a service appointment at the Mercedes-Benz of West Chester service center to have your vehicle serviced promptly.

Reach out to Our Service Team to Learn More!

Have lingering questions about why your car trembles when braking? We invite you to contact our service team! Want to know how to check brake fluid?  or how long brakes last?  Our experienced technicians have seen it all, and they’re always happy to assist. Be sure to take a look at our service specials so you don’t miss out on great savings. Whether you need help with your brakes or your timing belt needs repairs, we can get you a great deal on service.