At Done With Care Auto Repair in Merriam, KS, we often hear from drivers who are experiencing a shaking steering wheel when they apply their brakes. This common issue can be unsettling, but understanding the causes and solutions can help you address it effectively. As your local experts in brake repair and braking system repair, let’s explore why this phenomenon occurs and how we can fix it.
Understanding Brake Shake: A Deep Dive into Your Braking System
Common Causes of Steering Wheel Shake
Warped Brake Rotors
One of the most frequent culprits behind a shaking steering wheel is warped brake rotors. Over time, rotors can become uneven due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, which is often caused by heavy or frequent braking. This unevenness means that the brake pads can’t grip the rotor smoothly, leading to vibration that you feel through the steering wheel.
Worn Brake Pads
Another common issue is worn brake pads. As the pads wear down, their ability to grip the rotors diminishes, which can cause shaking. Additionally, worn pads can lead to increased rotor wear, exacerbating the problem.
Sticking Calipers
Sticking calipers can also cause the steering wheel to shake. If a caliper sticks, it can apply uneven pressure to the brake pads, leading to uneven brake pad wear and, consequently, vibration during braking.
How to Diagnose Brake-Related Issues
At Done With Care Auto Repair, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to accurately determine the cause of your brake issues. Our process includes:
Visual Inspection
Our factory-certified technicians, who undergo factory-level training through GM and Ford, begin with a thorough visual inspection of the braking system, checking for signs of wear on brake pads and rotors, and assessing the condition of the calipers.
Measuring Rotor Thickness
We use precision tools to measure the thickness of your brake rotors. This helps us determine if they are within the manufacturer’s specifications or if they need to be replaced due to warping or wear.
Caliper Examination
We also examine the calipers to ensure they are moving freely and not sticking. Any issues here can be addressed by cleaning, lubricating, or replacing the calipers as needed.
Solutions for a Shaking Steering Wheel
Rotor Replacement
By replacing old or damaged rotors, you are essentially resetting the condition of your vehicle’s braking system to its optimal state. This not only resolves existing issues like steering wheel shaking but also contributes to the overall safety and performance of your vehicle. We use “high carbon” rotors to meet factory specifications and ensure smooth even braking for the life of the brake pads.
Brake Pad Replacement
Replacing worn brake pads is crucial not only to stop the shaking but also to ensure your vehicle stops effectively. We use high-quality, durable brake pads that meet or exceed OE specifications to guarantee the best performance and longevity.
Caliper Repair or Replacement
If we find that a caliper is causing the issue, our team will repair or replace it to restore proper functionality to your braking system.
Why Choose Done With Care for Your Brake Repair Needs?
At Done With Care Auto Repair, we are committed to providing honest and transparent auto repair services. We believe in keeping our customers fully informed about the condition of their vehicles and ensuring they understand what repairs are being performed and why. Here’s why our customers trust us for all their braking system repair needs:
Expert Technicians
Our technicians receive continuous training to stay up-to-date with the latest automotive repair techniques, ensuring they can handle any brake repair issue efficiently.
Quality Parts and Service
We use only the best quality parts for all repairs, and our work is backed by a three-year, 36,000-mile nationwide warranty, giving you peace of mind.
Customer-Centric Approach
We offer convenient services such as free loaner vehicles, free Uber rides within a seven-mile radius, and flexible payment options through partners like EasyPay and Snap.
Schedule Your Brake Repair in Merriam, KS
If you’re experiencing a shake when braking, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Visit us at 5810 Merriam Dr., Merriam, KS, or call us at (913) 722-3466. At Done With Care Auto Repair, we’re here to ensure your vehicle is safe and comfortable to drive, with a braking system that performs when you need it most.
