Car troubles are no fun, especially when you’re not sure what the problem is! Vehicle vibrations can be due to a variety of issues, but it all depends on when the shaking is occurring. Some drivers only experience these shakes during winter, while others deal with them at any point in the year. So, let’s get to the bottom of it!
Snow and Slush
First, the winter vibrations. If your car is shaking the day after a snowstorm, especially if it’s particularly cold out, snow and slush are likely built up in the wheel wells. Some slush and ice melts off, but if it’s too cold, that slush freezes inside the rims or wheel wells. This causes the wheels to become unbalanced, so the car will shake until the slush is removed. If the car stops vibrating afterwards, you’re in good shape. But, if the shaking persists, there’s a deeper issue.
Brake Problems
If your car shakes when you’re braking, there’s a problem with the brakes. This would typically mean worn-out brake pads or a problem with the rotors. Get this fixed ASAP as ignoring the problem could result in an accident.
Wheel Misalignment
A shaking car while driving fast is likely due to imbalanced tires or misaligned wheels. If the root of the shaking comes from the steering wheel, you need an alignment. But if the vibrations are coming from the seats or floor, you likely need your tires balanced. This shaking tends to occur when driving over 55 mph.
Spark Plugs and Engine Mounts
When your car vibrates when idling, this can be due to bad spark plugs or loose engine mounts. Spark plugs are an easy fix that can be replaced during a tune-up, and engine mounts can be tightened if they aren’t broken. Replacing broken engine mounts can be a bit more costly, but if left untreated, it can cause serious engine damage. Loose engine mounts can also cause a problem when accelerating, as loose mounts can’t absorb the engine’s vibrations.
Oxygen Sensors
Another cause of rough idling is due to failed oxygen sensors. These measure the amount of oxygen and gasoline in the engine, and if the sensors don’t function, that ratio can’t be checked. This can create a rich or lean mixture, meaning that the engine can create a rough idle.
If your car is vibrating and you can’t get to the bottom of it, bring it into Auto Works. Our technicians will run a diagnostic scan and find the issue!
