Why does my car shake when I brake?

Consumer Editor

5 minute read|2nd Dec 2025

Have you ever noticed your steering wheel trembling or your entire car vibrating when you hit the brakes?

It can be a very unsettling experience that can make a driver uneasy and take their attention away from what is happening on the road.

A shaking car when braking is a symptom for several major issues and needs to be addressed immediately.

Understanding what causes this to happen is the first step to a safer and smoother ride.

In this car maintenance guide, we’ll break down the most common reasons your car shakes when braking.

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Why does my car shake and vibrate when I brake?

When your car shakes as you apply pressure to the brakes, it is often a sign that there is something wrong within the braking and/or suspension system in the vehicle.

One of the most common issues is a damaged brake rotor. This is one of the metal discs that the brake pads are clipped on to, which help slow the vehicle in a controlled way.

Over time heat and friction can wear them down, causing them to become uneven leading to vibrations you can feel when you brake or turn the steering wheel.

Brake pads themselves can also cause the same reaction. Through wear and tear – or collecting dust and debris – when a driver pushes the brake pedal, the pressure isn’t applied evenly.

Sticky brake calipers, where they don’t release properly after pressure is released from the brake pads can lead to vibrations – bit also the steering being pulled to one side.

Within the suspension system, there are ball points, struts, springs, and tie rods that can get damaged over time and will need to be replaced.

If it is suspension that is the problem, then it is normally more noticeable when applying pressure to the brakes from higher speeds.

Wheel alignment is another common cause of shaky brakes. Take your vehicle to a local garage for a tyre inspection and to see if you need a tyre realignment.

Also, unbalanced tyres, uneven tyre wear, under/over-inflated tyres, and damaged rims can also be a cause for brake problems.

In rare cases, malfunctions within the anti-lock braking system (ABS) can lead to a pulsing or vibrating within the brakes that the driver can feel when any pressure is applied.

Is brake shudder dangerous?

Yes, vibrations when applying the brake in a car can be very dangerous for the driver, passengers, other road users, and pedestrians.

This is because it is a major safety issue, and signals problems within the brake or suspension system.

By calling a mobile mechanic or visiting your local garage, you can have them check what the cause of the problem is.

Even if it is a mild vibration, this is normally the starting symptoms of a wider problem and needs to be addressed immediately.

Ignoring it not only puts yourself and others in danger – but will also likely lead to a much larger repair bill in the future.

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How to fix brake shudder

Although the best course of action is to take your vehicle to a local garage or to call a mobile mechanic, these are the common fixes to some of the issues that are causing your brakes to shudder or vibrate.

Replace broken brake pads: Damaged pads will need to be replaced. Always do it in pairs or all four at the same time.
Replace or resurface brake rotors: These will also need to be relaced eventually, but sometimes a mechanic will be able to apply a new surface to keep it working for a period of time.
Lubricate brake calipers: If they re sticking or seizing, remove them, clean then, put them back in place and then lubricate them. If this doesn’t work, they will need to be replaced.
Inspect suspension system: There are many components that make up the suspension. They all need to be working, so parts will need to be repaired or replaced.
Check steering components: Same as above. It is essential for safety that both systems are in perfect working order.
Realign wheels: This will need to be performed at a garage. The car will need to be lifted and realigned to ensure even tyre wear.
New tyres: If the tyres are too damaged, get new ones and ensure they are aligned properly.

After any repairs, replacements, or servicing has taken place – take your vehicle for a test drive at lower speeds and test the brakes to ensure the shudder has gone.

Regular car maintenance is essential for keeping your car in the best condition possible.

How much does it cost to fix brake shudder?

According to 2025 data on whocanfixmycar, you can expect to pay anywhere between £100 and £1,000 for brake repair.

This can include parts and labour for replacing pads, discs, lines, calipers, rotors and then flushing and replacing brake fluid.

However, it is important to remember that these prices can vary depending on the make, model, and type of vehicle you have. Location and how urgently the repair or replacement is needed will also be a factor in the final price.