Ever been cruising along the highway, music on, windows down—then suddenly the steering wheel starts to vibrate, or the whole car feels a bit shaky? It’s not only annoying—it’s also a sign something might be wrong under the surface.
If your car shakes when you hit higher speeds, don’t ignore it. There are a few common reasons this might be happening, and the good news is, most of them are fixable.
1. Tyre Issues
One of the most frequent culprits? Your tyres.
If your tyres are out of balance, worn unevenly, or damaged, they can cause vibration—especially at speeds over 80 km/h. Sometimes you might even hear a humming noise to go with it.
What to do:
Get your tyres checked for proper balance and alignment. Also inspect for flat spots, bulges, or uneven wear. A tyre rotation or wheel alignment might be all it takes to smooth things out.
2. Wheel Alignment Problems
When your wheels are out of alignment, your car won’t track straight—and at high speeds, this misalignment can lead to shaking or vibrating through the steering wheel or entire car.
What to do:
A quick visit to your mechanic for a wheel alignment can fix this. It’s especially important after hitting a pothole or kerb hard, which can knock things out of place.
3. Brake System Problems
If the shaking tends to happen when you’re slowing down from a high speed, your brake rotors might be the issue. Warped rotors can create a pulsating or vibrating feeling when braking.
What to do:
Have your brakes inspected. The mechanic might resurface or replace the rotors, depending on how worn they are.
4. Worn Suspension or Steering Components
Your suspension and steering systems are designed to absorb bumps and keep your car stable. If something in that system is worn—like ball joints, tie rods, or control arms—it can cause your car to wobble or shake, especially when you’re going faster.
What to do:
Listen for any clunking noises over bumps. If you feel loose steering or notice uneven tyre wear, get your suspension looked at. It’s not just about comfort—it’s a safety issue.
5. Engine or Transmission Problems
Though less common, sometimes the vibration comes from under the bonnet. Engine misfires, poor fuel delivery, or even transmission issues can cause a shaking sensation, especially when your car is under load at higher speeds.
What to do:
If the shaking is paired with sluggish acceleration, strange noises, or a check engine light, get it diagnosed sooner rather than later. A simple fix like new spark plugs might solve it—or it might be something more serious.
It’s Not Just an Annoyance—It’s a Warning
A shaking car isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s your vehicle telling you something’s off. Whether it’s tyres, alignment, or something deeper, catching the issue early can save you money and prevent bigger problems down the line.
And if the shaking gets bad enough that it doesn’t feel safe to keep driving? Pull over, give us a call, and we’ll get you towed to a mechanic you trust. Better to be safe than stuck on the side of the road.
If you are in Watsonia, Victoria 3087, and looking for a nearby tow truck service, this is the best way to visit us.
Richmond Tow Trucks
123 Bridge Rd, Richmond VIC 3121
0485 856 565
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