Shaking or Vibration While Driving

When the shake happens tells you what's wrong.

Severity: Medium

What to Do Right Now

Note when the shake happens (highway, braking, idle, over bumps) — that's the key diagnostic clue.

Common Causes

  1. Out-of-balance tires (vibration at highway speed): Vibration that starts at 50-60 mph and gets worse — get tires balanced. Shop tires
  2. Warped brake rotors (vibration when braking): Pulsing brake pedal and shake during braking — replace or resurface rotors. Shop brake rotors
  3. Worn ball joints or tie rods (vibration over bumps): Looseness in the front end. Shop inspection recommended for safety. Shop tie rods
  4. Bent wheel: Hit a curb or pothole? A bent wheel causes a steady vibration. Shop wheels
  5. Worn engine mounts (vibration at idle): Excess vibration at idle that smooths out as you drive away. Shop engine mounts