Feeling your steering wheel or brake pedal shake when slowing down can be unsettling as well as dangerous. While occasional vibrations might seem like a small issue, they often signal a deeper problem with your braking system or suspension. Here’s a closer look at the possible causes of shaking brakes, and what you should do about it.
Warped brake discs
One of the most common reasons for shaking while braking is warped brake discs. Discs are the large metal circles that your brake pads clamp onto to slow the car down. As they wear down, discs can become uneven - when this happens, the brake pads can’t grip the surface evenly, resulting in vibrations felt through the brake pedal or steering wheel.
Worn brake pads
Just like brake discs, it’s to be expected that your brakes will wear down, but when this happens unevenly, e.g. due to low-quality parts or an issue with your callipers, it can result in inconsistent braking pressure, causing shaking brakes. If your pads are worn thin, they may also overheat more quickly, making the shaking worse.
Wheel alignment or suspension
If the vibration persists even when you're not braking, or gets worse at high speeds, the issue might not be the brakes at all. Misaligned wheels, damaged tie rods, or worn-out suspension components can all lead to vibrations that are especially noticeable when you brake. These issues can put uneven pressure on your brakes and discs, increasing wear and reducing braking performance.
Stuck callipers
Brake callipers are responsible for pressing the pads against the discs. If a calliper becomes stuck—often due to corrosion or dirt—it can cause uneven pressure on the disc. This not only leads to shaking but can also overheat the disc and increase wear.
Tyre or wheel issues
In some cases, the issue may stem from your tires or wheels rather than your brakes. A bent wheel, uneven tire wear, or imbalanced tires can all cause shaking that becomes more noticeable when braking.
You should always pay attention to changes in how your vehicle feels or sounds—especially when braking. Here are clear signs it’s time to visit a local mechanic or brake specialist:
- The steering wheel or brake pedal shakes consistently when you brake
- The shaking gets worse over time
- You hear grinding, squealing, or clunking noises when braking
- Your car pulls to one side when stopping
- Brake warning lights appear on your dashboard
Brake issues affect your ability to stop safely and shouldn’t be ignored. Even minor vibrations can indicate a problem that, left unchecked, could lead to brake failure or more costly repairs down the line. If your brakes are shaking, it's not something to brush off. Whether it’s a warped disc or a deeper suspension issue, it’s best to get it diagnosed and repaired by a professional as soon as possible.