Cars are designed to give you a smooth, comfortable ride. If you notice your vehicle shaking or vibrating, it’s usually a sign that something isn’t working as it should. Some vibrations are minor, but others point to serious issues with tyres, wheels, suspension, or brakes. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to costly repairs and even compromise your safety. At Dom’s Garage Services in Letchworth, we see this problem often — and the sooner you get it checked, the easier it usually is to fix.

Different Types of Vibrations and What They Mean

The way your car shakes can reveal a lot about where the fault lies:

• Shaking at motorway speeds: Usually caused by unbalanced wheels or uneven tyre wear, often felt most through the steering wheel.
• Vibration when braking: Often points to warped brake discs or uneven pad wear.
• Shaking when accelerating: Could indicate worn engine mounts, driveshaft problems, or issues with the gearbox.
• Constant vibration: Often linked to suspension or wheel alignment faults.
• Shaking while idling: Can be caused by an engine misfire, dirty injectors, or other engine-related issues.

Main Causes of Car Shaking

Some of the most common issues that lead to vibration include:

• Wheel balancing problems: Small imbalances in wheel weight can cause wobbling at speed.
• Tyre issues: Flat spots, bulges, and uneven wear can create vibrations that get worse over time.
• Wheel alignment faults: Misaligned wheels can cause both vibration and pulling to one side.
• Suspension wear: Worn shocks, struts, or bushings reduce stability and create shaking on uneven roads.
• Brake problems: Warped discs or sticking calipers can create noticeable vibration under braking.
• Engine or transmission issues: A misfiring engine, faulty spark plugs, or worn gearbox mounts can cause vibrations that are felt throughout the car.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Car Vibrations

A car that shakes isn’t just uncomfortable — it’s a sign that something is wearing out or failing. Leaving the problem unchecked can lead to:

• Uneven or accelerated tyre wear, costing you more in replacements.
• Higher fuel consumption due to poor efficiency.
• Damage to suspension or steering components.
• Reduced braking performance and safety risks.

In extreme cases, a small vibration left unresolved can turn into a dangerous fault that could cause you to lose control of the vehicle.

How Dom’s Garage Services Diagnose the Problem

When you bring your car to us, our experienced technicians will carry out a full inspection. This includes:

• Checking tyre condition and pressures.
• Inspecting wheel balance and alignment.
• Testing suspension components for wear or damage.
• Examining the brake system for warped discs or sticking calipers.
• Running engine diagnostics if the vibration points to a misfire or drivetrain issue.

Once we’ve identified the cause, we’ll explain the problem clearly and recommend the most cost-effective repair to get your car running smoothly again.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is it safe to drive with a shaking car? Not always. While some vibrations may be minor, others can indicate serious faults. It’s always best to get it checked.
• Can wheel balancing stop vibrations? Yes, if unbalanced wheels are the cause. If not, further inspection is needed.
• Does vibration always mean new tyres? Not necessarily. Sometimes it’s alignment or suspension — but worn tyres are a common culprit.

Book a Diagnostic Appointment in Letchworth

If your car is shaking or vibrating, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Call Dom’s Garage Services on 01462 671753 or book online. You’ll find us at 11 Protea Way, Letchworth, SG6 1JT. Our friendly, skilled team will quickly diagnose and repair the issue, restoring comfort and safety to your drive.