Why Is My Car Shaking?

You're driving along to your destination, only to discover that your vehicle has started shaking. This is more common than you think, and there are a few reasons why this could be happening to you. You shouldn't ignore a shaking car. Having one of our technicians inspect your vehicle is a good idea. Otherwise, you could be compromising your safety every time that you get behind the wheel. Let's talk about some of the most common issues that your vehicle could be experiencing.

Spark Plugs/Engine Issues

The spark plugs under the hood of your vehicle will need to be replaced once every 80,000 miles or so. If you're approaching this time frame, spark plugs could be the issue. If you're not anywhere near this time frame, it's a good idea to still have your engine checked out. If spark plugs aren't the issue, you could need a new engine air filter. Shaking can occur if there isn't proper airflow going through your engine when it's running.

Braking

If the shaking occurs when you're pressing down on your brake, you may likely need a new set of brake pads. If you're doing a lot of driving or doing a lot of starting/stopping, worn-out brake pads could be to blame. Regular wear and tear can also cause brake pads issues. You can check with your vehicle's manufacturer to see what they recommended when it comes to brake pad replacement.

Wheels/Tires

Check to see if the shaking occurs only when you're in motion. See if it increases when you're going around turns. If either of these scenarios is correct, your tires or wheels may need repair. Shaking is something to be concerned with, but issues with your tires and wheels can also pose a significant safety concern. If you've recently had work done to your tires, they may have been improperly tightened or aligned. It's always a good idea to check your tire pressure levels to ensure they are within the recommended range.

Axles

Axles are used to connect your two wheels on the ends in both the back and front. Axles can easily become damaged from driving over rough terrain, going over debris in the road, or driving through a pothole. Shaking from axle damage or CV issues will increase when you're accelerating.

If you're looking for assistance with your vehicle due to shaking or vibrating, contact Alfa Romeo of Scottsdale to make an appointment with our service department. We're conveniently located in Scottsdale.