Why Is My Car Vibrating While Driving? Common Causes and Fixes
23 January 2026
Feeling your car vibrate while driving can be worrying, especially if it starts suddenly or gets worse at higher speeds. Vibrations can come from several areas of your vehicle, ranging from simple tyre issues to more serious engine or suspension problems.
This guide will explain what the vibrations might feel like, the most common causes and when it’s time to book a professional inspection.
What Does the Vibration Feel Like?
Some drivers notice shaking through the steering wheel, while others feel it through the seat, pedals, or floor. Vibrations may appear only at certain speeds, when braking, or when accelerating, which helps narrow down the cause.
Steering Wheel Shaking When Driving
If the vibration is mainly felt through the steering wheel, it’s often linked to the wheels or tyres.
Wheel Balancing Issues
One of the most common reasons why the steering wheel shakeswhen driving is incorrect wheel balancing. Wheels that are not balanced evenly can cause noticeable vibration, particularly at motorway speeds.
Common wheel balancing symptoms include:
- Steering wheel shaking between 50 - 70 mph
- Vibration that increases with your speed
- Uneven tyre wear over time
Wheel balancing is a quick and effective fix that redistributes weight evenly around the wheel. If left unresolved, poor balancing can shorten tyre lifespan and affect handling.
Tyre Damage or Wear
Damaged or unevenly worn tyres can also cause vibrations. Bulges on the inside edge of tyres, or internal tyre damage may not always be visible but can cause persistent shaking. Low tyre pressure can worsen the issue, especially during the colder months of the year.
If you’re unsure about your tyres’ condition, or want to replace your worn-out tyres, explore our range here by entering your vehicle’s registration.
Car Vibrating at Higher Speeds
Vibrations that become more noticeable as your speed increases often point to wheel-related problems, but they can also indicate suspension or drivetrain issues.
Suspension or Steering Problems
Worn suspension components such as shock absorbers, ball joints, or bushings can cause vibrations and poor road stability. You may also notice uneven tyre wear or the car pulling slightly to one side.
Suspension issues tend to worsen over time and can affect braking and steering response, so they should be checked sooner rather than later. Book a service with us.
Car Engine Vibration Causes
If the vibration is felt even when the car is stationary or idling, the issue may be engine related.
Engine Mount Problems
Engine mounts hold the engine securely in place and absorb vibrations. If they wear out or crack, engine movement increases, causing noticeable shaking, particularly when starting the engine or accelerating.
Misfiring or Faulty Spark Plugs
Engine misfires are another common cause of vibration. Worn spark plugs, faulty ignition coils, or fuel delivery issues can cause the engine to run unevenly, resulting in shaking and reduced performance. If you suspect engine-related issues, a diagnostic test can quickly identify the fault.
Vibrations When Braking
If your car vibrates mainly when slowing down, the brakes may be the issue.
Warped Brake Discs
Brake discs can warp over time due to heat and wear, causing vibrations through the steering wheel or brake pedal when braking. This is often described as a pulsing sensation.
Brake issues affect stopping distance and safety, so it’s important to have them inspected promptly. Book your free brake check today.
Can Ignoring Car Vibrations Cause Damage?
Yes. While some vibration causes are minor, ignoring them can lead to:
- increased tyre wear
- suspension damage
- reduced fuel efficiency
- brake system wear
- more expensive repairs later
Early inspection usually means simpler and cheaper fixes.
How to Fix Car Vibrations
The correct fix depends on the cause, but common solutions include:
- wheel balancing or alignment
- tyre replacement
- brake disc or pad replacement
- suspension repairs
- engine diagnostics and repairs
Regular car servicing helps catch these issues early. Book a car service with us today.
When Should You Book a Check?
You should book a professional inspection if:
- vibrations suddenly appear
- shaking worsens at speed
- the steering wheel shakes constantly
- vibrations occur when braking or accelerating
- warning lights appear on the dashboard
How Setyres Can Help
If your car is vibrating while driving, Setyres can identify the cause quickly and safely. We offer tyre inspections, wheel alignment, brake checks, suspension assessments, and diagnostic testing to get your car running smoothly again.
Whether the issue is tyre-related or linked to engine vibration causes, our experienced technicians will recommend the right fix for your vehicle.