What Should You Do If Your Car Shakes While Driving?

A car that shakes while driving is trying to tell you something. The vibration might be a minor annoyance, like an unbalanced tire, or a warning of a serious safety hazard such as a failing wheel bearing or brake problem. Your first priority is to stay calm, keep control, and get off the road safely. This guide covers nine common causes and what to do about each.

What to do first

1. Stay calm and keep a firm grip on the steering wheel. Do not jerk the wheel or slam on the brakes.
2. Slow down gradually. Ease off the accelerator and let the car decelerate. If you must brake, do it gently.
3. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
4. Pull over to a safe place away from traffic, such as a shoulder, parking lot, or side street. Avoid stopping in an active lane if possible.
5. Turn off the engine and assess the situation. If you see smoke, smell burning, or feel unsafe, get everyone out of the car and move to a safe distance.

Emergency warning

If the shaking is violent, you lose steering control, the brakes fail, or you see smoke or fire, call local emergency services immediately. Do not try to drive the car further. A sudden, severe shake can indicate a wheel about to come off or a brake caliper seizing, both of which are extremely dangerous.

9 possible causes to investigate

1. Unbalanced or damaged tires

This is the most common cause of shaking at highway speeds (usually 50-70 mph). A wheel weight may have fallen off, or a tire may be unevenly worn. Look for missing weights or bulges. A tire shop can rebalance the wheel.

2. Misaligned wheels

If the car pulls to one side and shakes, alignment may be off. This often happens after hitting a pothole or curb. It can cause uneven tire wear and should be checked by a professional.

3. Bent wheel or rim

A bent rim from a pothole or impact can cause a persistent shake. You may see a wobble when the wheel is spun. This requires replacement or repair.

4. Worn suspension components

Worn shocks, struts, or control arm bushings can let the car bounce and shake, especially over bumps. If the car feels floaty or clunks over bumps, have the suspension inspected.

5. Brake problems

If the steering wheel shakes only when you brake, you likely have warped brake rotors or a sticking caliper. This is a safety issue. Do not ignore it. Have the brakes checked immediately.

6. Engine misfire

If the shake happens at idle or low speeds and feels like a rough running engine, you may have a misfire. The check engine light may flash or stay on. Continuing to drive can damage the catalytic converter. Get it diagnosed soon.

7. Worn engine mounts

Broken or worn engine mounts can cause a shake felt through the floor and steering wheel, especially when accelerating. This is usually a repair for a mechanic.

8. Driveshaft or axle issues

On rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive cars, a bent driveshaft or worn universal joint can cause a shake that increases with speed. This can be dangerous if it fails completely.

9. Loose or damaged lug nuts

Loose lug nuts can cause a severe shake and are extremely dangerous. If you recently had tires rotated or changed, check that the lug nuts are tight. If you are unsure, do not drive. Call for help.

What NOT to do

• Do not ignore the shaking and keep driving at high speed.
• Do not slam on the brakes or yank the steering wheel.
• Do not try to fix complex mechanical issues yourself unless you are trained and have the right tools.
• Do not drive if you see smoke, smell burning, or feel a loss of control.

When to call for help

Call for roadside assistance or a tow truck if you cannot safely diagnose or fix the issue, if the shaking is severe, or if you see smoke or fire. If there is an immediate danger to you or others, call local emergency services.

How to prevent it

• Check tire pressure monthly and inspect tires for damage.
• Rotate tires and get them balanced as recommended by your manufacturer.
• Avoid potholes and curbs when possible.
• Address any new noises, vibrations, or warning lights promptly.

Your next step: pull over safely, inspect what you can, and if the cause is not obvious or the shake is severe, call a professional. Do not risk your safety or the safety of others on the road.

This is general information and not a substitute for professional automotive advice. In an emergency, call local emergency services.