Why does my 2016 Dodge Dart shake when I brake?
Experiencing a shaking or vibrating sensation when you brake can be both alarming and frustrating. If you're driving a 2016 Dodge Dart and notice this issue, it’s important to address it promptly to ensure your safety and prevent further damage to your vehicle. In this article, we’ll explore the common causes of this problem and what you can do to fix it.
Common Causes of Brake-Related Shaking
When your car shakes during braking, the issue is often related to the braking system or components connected to the wheels. Here are the most common reasons why this might happen:
- Warped Brake Rotors: Over time, the brake rotors on your Dodge Dart can become uneven due to excessive heat or wear. When the rotors are warped, the brake pads cannot make consistent contact, causing a pulsating or shaking sensation when you apply the brakes.
- Worn Brake Pads: If your brake pads are excessively worn or uneven, they may not grip the rotors properly, leading to vibrations during braking.
- Loose or Damaged Suspension Components: Components like ball joints, tie rods, or control arms can wear out or become loose, causing instability and shaking when you brake.
- Wheel Alignment Issues: Misaligned wheels can cause uneven braking pressure, leading to vibrations. This is especially noticeable at higher speeds.
- Stuck Brake Caliper: A caliper that doesn’t release properly can cause uneven braking pressure, resulting in a shaking sensation.
How to Diagnose the Problem
To pinpoint the exact cause of the shaking, follow these steps:
- Inspect the Brake Rotors: Look for visible signs of warping or uneven wear. You may need a professional to measure the rotor thickness for accuracy.
- Check the Brake Pads: Examine the pads for uneven wear or thinning. If they’re worn down, it’s time for a replacement.
- Test the Suspension: Have a mechanic inspect the suspension components for looseness or damage.
- Evaluate Wheel Alignment: If you’ve recently hit a pothole or curb, your wheels may be out of alignment. A professional alignment check can confirm this.
- Inspect the Brake Calipers: Ensure the calipers are functioning properly and not sticking or seizing.
What You Can Do to Fix It
Once you’ve identified the cause of the shaking, here are some potential solutions:
- Resurface or Replace the Rotors: If the rotors are warped, they may need to be resurfaced or replaced entirely.
- Replace the Brake Pads: Worn or uneven brake pads should be replaced with new ones to ensure smooth braking.
- Repair or Replace Suspension Components: Damaged or loose suspension parts should be repaired or replaced to restore stability.
- Perform a Wheel Alignment: A professional alignment service can correct any misalignment issues.
- Service the Brake Calipers: If the calipers are sticking, they may need to be cleaned, lubricated, or replaced.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’re unable to diagnose or fix the issue on your own, it’s best to consult a trusted auto repair shop. At Kevin’s Autos, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing brake issues for all makes and models, including the 2016 Dodge Dart. Our experienced technicians can quickly identify the problem and provide reliable solutions to get you back on the road safely.
Don’t ignore a shaking sensation when braking—it’s a sign that something isn’t right. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and ensure your vehicle is in top condition!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean when my wheel shakes when I brake?
- Warped Brake Rotors : One of the most common reasons for shaking during braking is warped brake rotors.
- Worn Brake Pads : If your brake pads are worn unevenly or are nearing the end of their lifespan, they may not grip the rotors properly, causing shaking.
- Brake Caliper Issues
- Suspension Problems
What are signs of transmission failure?
Top Signs Your Transmission May Be Failing
- Transmission won't engage or stay in gear.
- Shifts are delayed or missing gear shifts.
- Transmission slipping or engine is revving high.
- Transmission fluid is leaking.
- If there's a burning smell.
- If there is buzzing, clunking, humming noise.
- Car has no power.
Why does my Dodge Dart engine shake?
Any unusual shaking or vibrating forces coming from the engine is cause for concern. It could be something as simple as old spark plugs producing an uneven power delivery, it could be something serious like worn or broken engine mounts, or it could be even more serious in the case of internal engine damage.
What is the transmission problem on a 2016 Dodge Dart?
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Dodge Dart vehicles equipped with 6-speed automatic transmissions. The shifter cable bushing may fail allowing the shift cable to detach from the transmission. Tip: Recalls don't affect every vehicle of the same year, make and model.
How do I fix my car shaking when I brake?
How to fix the shaking issue. First, make sure each of your tires doesn't have any worn parts. If your tires are badly worn, then it's time to change your tires. If your car is vibrating because of the worn brake rotors and pads, take your car to a professional repair shop to have them replaced or fixed.
Can bad wheel alignment cause shaking brakes?
Unevenly work or misaligned tires can, thus, cause a car to shake when braking. Sometimes, tires will only require alignment or another service like tire rotation. Other times, you may need new tires. Tire alignment is usually checked during a routine tire rotation, which should be performed every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
How to tell if rotors are bad?
Some common symptoms of bad rotors include vibration or pulsation in the steering wheel, high-pitched squealing noise when braking, shaking steering wheel, brake pedal pulsing, vehicle taking a long time to stop, loud bangs while braking, large edges on the outer part of the brake rotor, and scratch marks on the rotor.
Why does my Dodge Dart shake when I brake?
The most common reasons a Dodge Dart shakes when braking are bad brake rotors, bad brake pads, or a bad wheel bearing.
Are there any recalls on a 2016 Dodge Dart?
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2016 Dodge Dart vehicles manufactured April 13, 2015, to June 7, 2016. Due to voltage spikes caused by a problem within the windshield washer pump, the windshield wiper circuit may fail.
Is it safe to drive my car if it shakes when I brake?
A shaking car when braking is a serious issue, not just affecting the smoothness of your ride but potentially compromising safety and leading to further vehicle damage. It may indicate problems like worn-out brake rotors, uneven brake pads, suspension issues, damaged wheel bearings, tire problems, or alignment issues.
