Is your car shaking like a leaf in the wind? It’s an unsettling feeling, isn’t it? As the owner of My Auto Shop, New Zealand’s largest mobile mechanic business, I’ve seen my fair share of vibrating vehicles. In this post, I’ll break down the common causes of car shaking and what you can do about it.
Too long; didn’t read (TL;DR)
The article covers reasons why your car might shake or vibrate, including:
1. Tyres and Wheels – imbalanced tyres are a culprit for shaking, especially at higher speeds. Damaged tyres with wear or flat spots can also trigger vibrations.
2. Brake Problems – warped brake rotors can result in shaking during braking at speeds. Worn brake pads could also contribute to vibrations.
3. Engine and Transmission – worn-out spark plugs, damaged spark plug wires, or a faulty ignition coil can cause the engine to misfire and shake. Insufficient transmission fluid or worn components in a transmission may lead to shaking.
4. Suspension and Steering – worn suspension parts such as ball joints, tie rod ends, or shocks can induce shaking and vibrations. Loose or worn steering components might also be accountable for the shaking sensation.
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Symptoms and causes
There are several reasons why your car might be shaking:
- Tyre problems: Unbalanced, out-of-round, or worn-out tyres are a common culprit. You’ll usually feel the vibration through the steering wheel at higher speeds.
- Brake issues: Warped brake rotors or worn brake pads can cause shaking when you hit the brakes. This is a serious safety issue that needs immediate attention.
- Engine troubles: Dirty spark plugs, clogged air filters, or worn-out motor mounts can make your engine shake, especially at idle.
- Suspension woes: Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, or strut bearings can cause vibrations, particularly when accelerating or turning.
- Driveline problems: Damaged axles, driveshafts, or U-joints can lead to shaking under acceleration.
What is involved in the repair
The fix for your shaky ride depends on the underlying cause. Here are some common repairs:
- Tire balancing and rotation: This quick, inexpensive service can solve most tire-related vibrations.
- Brake service: Replacing warped rotors and worn brake pads will eliminate brake shudder and restore stopping power.
- Tune-up: Installing new spark plugs and air filters can smooth out rough idling.
- Suspension work: Replacing worn suspension components will improve handling and reduce vibrations.
- Driveline repairs: Fixing damaged driveline parts will eliminate shaking under acceleration.
What is the rough cost of these repairs in New Zealand
Repair costs vary depending on your vehicle and the specific issue, but here are some ballpark figures:
- Tire balancing and rotation: $50-$100
- Brake service: $200-$800
- Tune-up: $100-$500
- Suspension work: $200-$1,000+
- Driveline repairs: $200-$1,500+
Keep in mind that these are rough estimates, and your actual costs may differ.
Why My Auto Shop is the best place to get your car fixed
At My Auto Shop, we understand that a shaking car is more than just an annoyance – it’s a safety concern. That’s why our mobile mechanics come to you, whether you’re at home or at work. We offer upfront, transparent pricing and prioritize customer service. With our strong Google rating and convenient servicing solutions, you can trust us to get your car running smoothly again.
Don’t let a shaky ride rattle your nerves. If your car is vibrating more than usual, give us a call at My Auto Shop. We’ll diagnose the problem and get you back on the road with confidence.