Why Is My Car Shaking or My Steering Wheel Vibrating?

21 September 2026 · 5 min read

When does it vibrate?

The quickest way to narrow down a vibration is to notice when it happens. A steering wheel that shakes at around 50 to 70mph is most often a wheel out of balance. A vibration only when you brake usually means warped or uneven brake discs. Shaking when you accelerate or turn points towards the driveshafts or engine mounts. Each has a different fix, so it is worth paying attention before you bring it in.

Vibration at speed

Wheel balance weights can fall off, particularly after hitting a pothole, and an unbalanced wheel sets up a shake that comes and goes at certain speeds. A bent wheel rim, a tyre with a bulge or a separated tread, or a lost weight after new tyres can all do the same. If you feel it through the steering wheel it is usually the front wheels; through the seat, often the rears.

Vibration when braking

If the steering wheel shudders or the brake pedal pulses as you slow down, the brake discs are usually uneven. That can come from heavy braking on long descents, a sticking caliper or pads that have left deposits on the disc. It needs checking — uneven discs reduce braking performance.

Vibration when turning or accelerating

A clicking noise on full lock, for example when turning out of a tight junction, is a classic sign of a worn CV joint on the driveshaft. Vibration under hard acceleration can also be a worn driveshaft or a failed engine mount. Worn steering parts such as track rod ends or ball joints can make the steering feel loose or vague as well as shaky.

Is it safe to drive?

A mild shake at motorway speed is not an emergency, but it is telling you something is wrong. A sudden, violent vibration can mean a tyre is failing or a wheel is loose — pull over safely and check. We road-test the car to recreate the vibration, then check the wheels, tyres, brakes, steering and suspension to find the cause. Call us on 0121 476 2287.

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