A car that suddenly starts vibrating or rattling can be alarming, and it's possibly a sign of a major problem. From the engine to the brakes, there are many possible causes for your vehicle to start shaking. Sometimes the cause is due to parts wearing out, but it can also happen with damage following an accident. While you should always have one of our technicians diagnose the problem, you may be able to pinpoint the cause before your appointment.
If the shaking is coming from the engine, the air filter or the spark plugs may be the culprit. Spark plugs are made to last about 80,000 to 100,000 miles, but yours may have a slightly shorter or longer lifespan depending on the type of car you drive. If your vehicle is a higher-mileage vehicle, check the condition of the spark plugs first. If they seem okay, the air filter might be clogged and needs to be cleaned to restore the engine's function.
The brakes can also cause the car to shake or vibrate when they wear out. The brake pads, which are a crucial component of the vehicle, have an average lifespan of approximately 50,000 miles. However, the lifespan may vary by vehicle make and model. Your driving style can also play a role in how quickly the brakes wear out. One of our technicians can check out the brakes to determine if they're the source of your car shaking.
Damaged wheels or components in the wheels can cause shaking in your vehicle. One way to tell if the wheels are the source of the issue is if the steering wheel also shakes when you drive along. Some of the parts that can go bad on the wheels are the ball joints, wheel bearing, and tie rod ends. Along with causing more damage to the wheels and mechanical system, driving on bad wheels can be dangerous.
All vehicles have an axle in the front end and another in the back. Damage to the axles usually comes from impact, such as driving over potholes or other uneven road surfaces. The axles can be damaged in an accident, too, even if it's minor. Therefore, if your vehicle is ever involved in a car accident, it's essential to bring it to our service appointment for a proper evaluation. You may not even notice the damage until it becomes a larger issue.
A problem with the tires can be another source of the vehicle's shaking and vibration. If the tires are not filled to the proper PSI, if they're out of alignment, improperly balanced, or not tightened firmly enough, they can cause the car to shake. A mechanic can look at the tires more closely to find and fix the problem.
If your vehicle is shaking, contact our expert auto service team in Houston for repairs.
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