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