Why is my car shaking like an earthquake?
The most common causes are wheel and tire issues, braking problems, and suspension wear. The exact source depends on when the shake happens—at highway speed, when braking, or at idle—and a quick check can point you toward the right area.
Common causes of car shaking
To begin narrowing down the problem, consider the main systems that typically transmit vibrations to the cabin or steering wheel.
- Tire and wheel issues: unbalanced wheels, damaged or worn tires, bulges, or cords showing uneven tread wear.
- Braking system problems: warped rotors, sticking calipers, or worn brake pads that cause pulsing or grabbing.
- Suspension and steering wear: worn shocks/struts, control arm bushings, ball joints, tie rods, or misaligned wheels.
- Drivetrain components: failing CV joints, driveshaft or axle problems that transmit vibration to the chassis.
- Wheel bearings and hubs: worn or loose bearings can cause vibration and noise that grows with speed.
- Engine and exhaust issues: engine misfire, vacuum leaks, or loose exhaust components can produce rough idle or vibration.
- Transmission or torque converter problems: shudder or vibration during gear changes or at certain speeds, especially in automatics.
Any of these issues can create an “earthquake-like” shake, especially if multiple factors are involved. A professional inspection is recommended if the vibration persists or worsens.
Diagnosing the vibration based on when it happens
The pattern of the shake helps narrow down the culprit. Use the following guidelines to describe what you feel to a technician.
Shake at highway speed with no braking
Likely causes include wheel balance issues, unbalanced tires, bent rims, or suspension wear that becomes noticeable at higher speeds. Start by inspecting tire pressure and looking for uneven tread wear, bulges, or cords. A shop can perform a wheel balance, inspect alignment, and check shocks/struts and steering components.
Shake when applying brakes
This often points to brake system problems. Warped rotors typically cause a pulsing sensation through the steering wheel or brake pedal. Sticking calipers or uneven brake pads can also create vibration when braking. A brake service is recommended if shaking coincides with braking, especially at moderate speeds.
Vibration at idle or during acceleration
Vibration that’s strongest at idle or under acceleration can indicate engine misfires, vacuum leaks, or exhaust issues. It can also come from worn engine mounts transmitting more engine movement into the chassis. A mechanic will check ignition components, fuel delivery, and scan for trouble codes.
Shaking that worsens with gear or speed changes
Possible drivetrain or transmission issues, including bad CV joints (front-wheel drive), driveshaft u-joints (rear-wheel drive), or torque converter problems in automatics. A mechanic will perform a road test and diagnostic codes to pinpoint rotation-related vibrations.
What to do right now to stay safe
Do not ignore a vibration that grows louder, changes with speed, or is accompanied by grinding noises, smells, or a warning light. Immediate steps can prevent further damage and keep you safe.
- Pull over safely if the vibration worsens or you notice unusual noises; inspect tires for obvious damage or low pressure.
- If a tire or wheel looks damaged, avoid driving long distances and call roadside assistance or a tow to a shop.
- Drive slowly to a nearby service center if you must continue, avoiding high speeds and hard braking.
- Check nearby warning lights and note any unusual smells or sounds to share with your mechanic.
Most car shakes are repairable, but some can indicate serious problems that affect steering, braking, or engine safety. A professional inspection is the best path to a safe fix.
What a mechanic will check and how they fix it
A trained technician will perform many checks, including wheel balance, alignment, tire condition, brake rotor condition, suspension and steering components, drivetrain parts, and engine diagnostics.
Typical fixes include balancing or replacing tires, aligning wheels, replacing worn shocks/struts, repairing or replacing brake components, repairing CV joints or driveshafts, or addressing engine misfire or mount issues. The exact repair depends on the root cause identified during testing.
Summary
Shaking like an earthquake usually points to tire/wheel issues, brakes, or suspension, with engine or drivetrain problems as possible but less common culprits. Start with a careful check of tires and brakes, then seek a professional assessment to pinpoint and fix the underlying cause. Timely diagnosis can prevent further damage and keep you safe on the road.
Can I still drive my car if it's jerking?
If you notice that your car jerks when accelerating at low speeds, this is an issue that you shouldn't ignore. A jerking car is often a sign that your car will develop other problems if you don't address this issue through preventative maintenance care or a timely auto repair service.
Is it safe to drive when your car is shaking?
No, it is not always safe to drive when your car is shaking, especially if the shaking is violent, unpredictable, or accompanied by other symptoms like unusual noises. While minor, constant vibrations from something like unbalanced tires might not be immediately dangerous, they can cause further damage and should be addressed soon. If the shaking occurs while braking or at high speeds, it could indicate a critical issue with your brakes or suspension, so it's best to pull over and have the vehicle inspected by a professional.
When to stop driving immediately
- Violent or unpredictable shaking: If the car shakes violently or unpredictably, you should stop driving immediately. This could indicate a serious problem like a broken engine mount or a severe steering issue.
- Shaking during braking: This can be a sign of warped brake rotors or other brake problems, which compromise your ability to stop safely.
- Shaking that affects steering: If you have difficulty controlling the vehicle, pull over as soon as it's safe to do so.
- Shaking accompanied by unusual noises: Loud noises or the car jerking when accelerating can signal engine or transmission problems that need professional attention.
When to get it checked soon
- Shaking at a specific speed: A vibration that starts at a certain speed (e.g., 55-65 mph) often points to unbalanced wheels. While not a life-threatening emergency, it should be fixed soon to prevent wear on other parts like the suspension.
- Shaking while idling: This can be caused by loose engine mounts or other engine-related issues. It's not as immediately critical as violent shaking, but still needs to be diagnosed and repaired to prevent further damage.
What to do if your car is shaking
- Pull over safely: If the shaking is severe or happens during braking, find a safe place to pull over immediately.
- Turn off the engine: This can prevent further damage, especially if the shaking is related to the engine.
- Check for visible issues: Look under the hood for anything obviously wrong, but do not attempt complex repairs yourself.
- Contact a professional: Schedule an appointment with a mechanic to have the car inspected. Ignoring the problem can lead to more expensive repairs or unsafe driving conditions.
What are the three most common things that can cause vibration in a drive shaft?
Driveshaft vibration can have many causes. Among the most common are worn U-joints or slip splines, out-of-balance components, yokes out-of-phase or misaligned angles and yoke ears that are not concentric with the splines.
Why is my car shaking and trembling?
Feeling your car shaking while driving can be unsettling. Whether it's a minor vibration or a severe shake, it's important to understand the cause before it leads to bigger problems. A shaking car can be linked to several issues, including tire problems, brake wear, suspension issues, or even engine trouble.
