From potholes to fender benders, there are many potential reasons why your vehicle starts shaking. Quite often, keeping your car updated with all of its routine inspections can help avoid problems before they become catastrophic. If your car is shaking or vibrating, be sure to take it to a knowledgeable mechanic for service. Shaking may be due to a small problem, but it can also be a sign of a more problematic issue. A mechanic can make repairs either way.

Engine

Sometimes the engine will make the car shake. Shaking that's related to the engine may be noticeable when you first start driving the car. The shaking may continue, especially if the problem continues to get worse. Before bringing your vehicle to a mechanic, you can try checking the engine's air filter to see if it needs to be cleaned. The surface should look clean and not covered in dirt or dust. If it looks dirty, try cleaning it to see if that fixes the problem. If the engine is running warm or making noise, have a mechanic look at the radiator to see if it's working and the spark plugs, which may need to be changed at 80,000 miles or more.

Wheels

Wheels may contribute to the car's shaking if they become dented or bent. The lug nuts on the wheels, which attach the wheel hub to the wheel, may be loose. If that's the case, you'll notice shaking, especially when driving at higher speeds. The wheels may need to be adjusted or replaced to correct the problem.

Tires

The tires are another possible source of shaking in your car. Tires that are worn beyond their recommended tread level can cause shaking and vibrations. The tires also need to be kept at a specific PSI level, which is their internal air pressure level, to function correctly. Tires that are not balanced correctly can cause shaking also. Your vehicle may need an alignment, a tire rotation, or even new tires to stop the shaking.

Axles

Shaking caused by the axles might arise if the CV joints, which act as boots on the end, get damaged or torn and let dust, dirt, and other particles into the axle. A clunking sound when you turn also indicates axle problems. The axles can also make the car shake if they get twisted or damaged from hitting curbs, potholes, or car accidents.

Brakes

If the brake pads on your car get worn out, or the rotors lose their uniform and even shape, the vehicle might shake when you step on the brakes. The brake pads should be replaced periodically to ensure they have enough cushion, and the rotors should be inspected for signs that they are not too worn out.

If your car needs an appointment for service, don't hesitate to contact our service center in Phoenix today.