Oldsmobile LSS Shakes When Braking

Common Causes of Brake Shaking in Your Oldsmobile LSS and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 Oldsmobile LSS 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 an Oldsmobile LSS

When troubleshooting shaking during braking in your Oldsmobile LSS, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by inspecting the brake rotors, as warped rotors are a frequent culprit behind vibrations. Look for signs of uneven wear or scoring on the surface, which can indicate the need for resurfacing or replacement. Next, examine the brake pads; worn or uneven pads can disrupt the contact with the rotors, leading to shaking. If both the rotors and pads appear in good condition, turn your attention to the wheel bearings. Worn bearings can cause instability and vibrations, so check for any play or roughness when spinning the wheel. Additionally, assess the suspension system for any worn components or misalignment, as these issues can significantly impact vehicle stability during braking. Finally, ensure that your wheel alignment is correct; improper alignment can lead to uneven tire wear and contribute to shaking. By methodically checking these components, you can identify and resolve the issue, ensuring a smoother and safer braking experience.

What Causes Shaking When Braking in an Oldsmobile LSS?

When your Oldsmobile LSS experiences shaking during braking, it can be both alarming and indicative of underlying issues that need attention. One of the most frequent causes is worn tires, which can lead to uneven contact with the road surface, exacerbating vibrations. Additionally, warped brake rotors are a common culprit; they can cause a noticeable pulsing sensation in the brake pedal and steering wheel as they disrupt the smooth operation of the braking system. Old or worn brake pads may also contribute to this problem, as they can wear unevenly and fail to provide consistent stopping power. Other factors to consider include sticky brake calipers that may not retract properly, leading to excessive friction, as well as suspension problems and poor wheel alignment that can further amplify vibrations during braking. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial for maintaining the safety and performance of your vehicle, and many of these problems can be diagnosed and remedied through careful inspection and basic mechanical skills.

Why is My Oldsmobile LSS Shaking When I Brake?

When your Oldsmobile LSS shakes during braking, it is crucial to address the issue promptly to ensure your safety on the road. Ignoring this symptom can lead to more severe problems, such as brake failure or compromised vehicle control, which could result in accidents. The shaking often indicates underlying issues like warped brake rotors or worn brake pads, which can escalate if not resolved. Additionally, components such as wheel bearings may also be at fault, and neglecting these can lead to significant damage and costly repairs. Therefore, it is advisable to have a professional mechanic inspect your vehicle as soon as possible to diagnose the problem accurately and perform necessary repairs, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable.

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Oldsmobile LSS Shaking When Braking: Causes & Solutions