Dodge Ram 1500 Shakes When Braking

Common Causes of Shaking in Your Dodge Ram 1500 During Braking and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
55% chance it's the
Brake Rotor
0%
20% chance it's the
Brake Pad
0%
10% chance it's the
Old Brake Fluid
0%
15% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a Dodge Ram 1500 shakes when braking are bad brake rotors, bad brake pads, or a bad wheel bearing.
  • Brake Rotor: A warped or worn brake rotor can cause vibrations during braking and reduced stopping power.
  • Brake Pad: A worn or damaged brake pad can lead to reduced braking efficiency and increased stopping distances.
  • Old Brake Fluid: Old brake fluid can absorb moisture over time, leading to reduced braking performance and potential corrosion within the brake system.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

Troubleshooting Shaking When Braking in a Dodge Ram 1500

When troubleshooting shaking during braking in your Dodge Ram 1500, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Start by inspecting the brake components, focusing on the brake rotors and pads, as these are the most common culprits. Look for signs of wear or warping, which can lead to a pulsating sensation in the brake pedal and shaking in the steering wheel. If the brake pads are worn down, replacing them along with the rotors may be necessary. Next, check the wheel bearings and ensure they are in good condition, as a faulty bearing can also contribute to the shaking. After addressing the brakes, examine the wheels and tires for balance and damage; unbalanced wheels or bent rims can exacerbate the issue. If the shaking persists after these checks, consider performing a complete brake flush and ABS bleed, as air in the brake lines can affect performance. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the shaking problem, ensuring a safer and smoother driving experience.

What Causes a Dodge Ram 1500 to Shake When Braking?

When experiencing shaking in a Dodge Ram 1500 while braking, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be causing this issue. One of the primary culprits is bad brake rotors or pads, which can wear down over time, leading to a pulsating sensation in the brake pedal and vibrations felt in the steering wheel. Additionally, unbalanced wheels can contribute to this shaking, as uneven weight distribution can create vibrations that affect the overall ride quality. Warped rotors are another significant factor; their uneven surfaces can cause noticeable shaking during braking. Furthermore, worn brake pads or rotors can exacerbate the problem, resulting in a similar pulsating feeling. Lastly, issues with the front suspension, such as misalignment during braking, can also lead to shaking. By diagnosing these potential problems, you can take the necessary steps to repair your vehicle and restore a smooth braking experience.

Why is My Dodge Ram 1500 Shaking When Braking?

When your Dodge Ram 1500 shakes while braking, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly, as neglecting it can lead to serious safety risks and costly repairs. The shaking sensation often indicates problems such as warped brake rotors, worn brake pads, or even issues with wheel bearings. These components are vital for safe braking performance; if they are compromised, it can result in decreased stopping power and increased stopping distances, putting you and others on the road at risk. Additionally, unbalanced wheels can exacerbate the shaking, particularly at higher speeds, which can lead to further wear on suspension components and tires. Ignoring these symptoms not only affects your vehicle's handling but can also lead to more extensive damage over time. Therefore, it is advisable to conduct a thorough inspection or consult a professional mechanic to diagnose and resolve the issue before it escalates into a more significant problem.

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Dodge Ram 1500 Shaking When Braking: Causes & Solutions