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Why Is My Car Shaking?


At first, you might not think much of the fact that your car is shaking. But a problem that seems to be just a minor nuisance initially can become a much bigger problem later on. Car shaking isn't something to ignore, as it can involve significant parts of the car, including the engine, tires, and brakes. A trusted mechanic should always take a look at your vehicle if it's shaking to find and fix the problem. However, you can try to figure out where the problem lies based on the car's behavior.

INFINITI driver

Engine

There are several possible causes for the engine to make your car shake. Most of the time, they are shaking due to the engine results from an issue with one of the engine's other components: the radiator, engine air filter, or spark plugs. The engine's radiator helps keep it cool and operate at the correct temperature. If the radiator breaks, the engine's temperature may rise as well. An engine that overheats in addition to causing shaking may need a new radiator. The spark plugs are engine components that facilitate fuel delivery. They can also cause shaking if they break. An air filter may cause the engine's shaking if it gets clogged and lets contaminated air into the engine.

Tires

Tires naturally wear out over time due to the constant stress that they face from driving. The tires should be checked periodically by a professional mechanic to ensure they're not too worn out and therefore unsafe for driving. Tires should have a certain level of tread and pressure level or PSI, to function correctly. If they're filled to the incorrect PSI level or don't have enough tread left, shaking can result. Rotating or replacing the tires can correct the issue.

Wheels

Damage to the wheels caused by accidents or other encounters on the road can produce shaking. The shaking can also start if the lug nuts, which are parts on the wheels, aren't appropriately fastened. The wheels may also need to be balanced.

Brakes

Like the tires, the brakes bear a considerable amount of stress as you drive. If the shaking starts as you step on the brake pedal, the shaking is most likely related to a brake problem. Most brakes have parts called rotors and pads. Pads that wear too thin can cause uneven wear on the rotors, which then causes the car to shake or pull to one side as you stop the vehicle. Brake problems that cause shaking might also make a screeching or grinding noise.

Axles

The car's axles might cause the vehicle to shake if they become damaged. The axles include a part on the end called the CV joint. The CV joint can make the car shake if it gets torn or cracked, allowing dirt and contaminants to get into the axle.

If you're experiencing a shaking or vibrating car, contact us today for assistance.