Skip to main content
FixMyCarQuote

The steering wheel shakes when I brake

A vibration that appears only under braking usually comes from the front of the vehicle. It is a useful symptom because it is fairly specific: it points at the rotors, though not only at them.

Compare offers

Free · No obligation

  1. 1Describe the repair
  2. 2We look for garages
  3. 3Compare the offers

Common symptoms

  • The vibration is stronger when braking from higher speed.
  • You feel it in the wheel, in the pedal, or in both.
  • It started after hitting a pothole.
  • You also feel a vibration while driving without braking.

You do not need to know which one applies: describe what you notice and the garage will do the diagnosis.

What changes the price

We do not publish an average price: we do not yet have enough real data to give an honest one. Here is what makes up the bill instead.

Warped rotors or uneven thickness
The classic cause. Overheating or an impact can distort a rotor by a few hundredths of a millimetre, which is enough to shake the wheel.
A calliper that will not release
A partly seized calliper overheats that rotor and eventually distorts it. Replacing the rotor without addressing the calliper brings the problem straight back.
Play in the steering or suspension
A worn ball joint or bushing lets the wheel move under braking load. The vibration is then felt in the wheel more than in the pedal.
Balancing or a damaged wheel
If the vibration is there without braking too, look at balancing, a bent rim or a damaged tyre instead.

When an inspection is needed

Several different problems can cause this symptom. A garage will most likely need to inspect the vehicle to identify the cause — this page helps you describe what you notice, it does not replace a diagnosis.

How it works

  1. 1

    Tell us what your vehicle needs

    One request, a few minutes.

  2. 2

    We look for garages able to perform the work

    We contact garages in your area.

  3. 3

    Compare the offers you receive

    Price and availability, side by side.

  4. 4

    Choose the option you prefer

    You are free to walk away.

Common questions

Can I keep driving?

That depends entirely on the cause, which is exactly what this page cannot determine. A noise accompanied by reduced braking, a flashing warning light or unstable handling is a reason to have the vehicle checked without waiting.

Should I pick a specific repair in the form?

No, and it is better not to. Describe the symptom and leave the category broad: garages then see what you actually observe rather than a part you have guessed at. Asking for the wrong part is the most common way to pay for nothing.

Is the diagnosis charged for?

Usually yes: it is technician time. Some garages deduct it from the repair if they carry it out. It is one of the things worth comparing between offers.

Describe what you notice — the noise, when it happens, anything else you have spotted. We pass your description to garages in your area and you compare what they come back with.

Related pages

What we don't promise

We don't guarantee a number of offers, a response time, or a saving. We pass your request to garages and show you what they say. If nothing comes back, we'll tell you.

Ready to compare options for your repair?

Describe the repair your vehicle needs. It only takes a few minutes.

Get quotes

Free · No obligation