Why Your Car Shakes After Getting New Tires: Causes and Solutions

You just invested in a fresh set of tires, expecting a smoother, more comfortable ride. Instead, you’re gripping the steering wheel as your car vibrates like it’s driving over a washboard road. This frustrating and potentially dangerous situation leaves many drivers confused – shouldn’t new tires fix shaking problems, not cause them?

The truth is that installing new tires can sometimes reveal or even create vibration issues in your vehicle. From improper balancing to hidden suspension problems, there are numerous potential culprits behind that unsettling shake. The good news is that most of these issues are diagnosable and fixable, often without major expense.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the common reasons why your car might shake after getting new tires, how to identify the specific cause, and what you can do to restore that smooth ride you were expecting. Whether you’re experiencing a subtle vibration at highway speeds or a concerning shimmy during braking, understanding the root cause is the first step toward a solution.

What Causes Car Shaking After New Tires?

Getting new tires installed on your vehicle should result in a smoother, more comfortable ride. However, sometimes the opposite occurs – your car starts shaking or vibrating after the new tire installation. This shaking can range from a mild tremor to a violent shimmying that makes driving unsafe. There are several common reasons why a car may shake after new tires are installed.

One of the primary causes is improper balancing of the new tires. Tires need to be carefully balanced to ensure even weight distribution as they rotate. If a tire is out of balance, even slightly, it can cause a noticeable shake or wobble at certain speeds. Improper balancing is often due to human error during the installation process.

Another potential issue is bent or damaged wheels. If your wheels have any bends, dents, or other imperfections, it can throw off the balance and cause vibrations, even with properly balanced new tires. Wheels can become damaged from hitting potholes, curbs, or other road hazards.

Tire inflation plays a crucial role as well. If your new tires are over or under-inflated, it can lead to shaking or vibration issues. Properly inflated tires help ensure a smooth, stable ride.

Worn suspension components like shocks, struts, or bushings can also contribute to shaking after new tire installation. These components help absorb road imperfections, and if they’re worn out, they may not be able to dampen vibrations effectively.

In some cases, brake issues like warped rotors or sticking calipers can cause shaking or pulsation, especially when braking. This shaking may become more noticeable with new tires.

While these are some of the most common causes, there could be other underlying issues contributing to shaking after new tire installation. Proper diagnosis is essential to identify and address the root cause effectively.

Unbalanced or Improperly Balanced Tires

One of the most common causes of a car shaking after getting new tires is an imbalance in the tires themselves. Proper tire balancing is crucial for a smooth and comfortable ride. When a tire is out of balance, it means that the weight distribution around the tire is uneven, causing it to wobble or hop as it rotates.

The effects of an imbalanced tire can range from a mild vibration at certain speeds to severe shaking that can be felt throughout the entire vehicle. This shaking can not only be uncomfortable for the driver and passengers but can also lead to premature tire wear, increased fuel consumption, and potential damage to other components such as suspension and steering systems.

To check if your tires are properly balanced, you can perform a simple test. While driving at a steady speed on a smooth, straight road, carefully remove your hands from the steering wheel. If the vehicle pulls or shakes to one side, it’s likely that one or more tires are out of balance. Additionally, you may notice a rhythmic thumping or pounding sensation, especially at higher speeds.

Tire balancing is typically done by attaching small weights to the wheel rims to counteract any imbalances. This process should be performed by a professional technician using specialized equipment to ensure proper balancing. If you’ve recently had new tires installed and are experiencing shaking, it’s possible that the balancing was not done correctly or that the weights have come loose or fallen off.

Bent or Damaged Wheels

One potential cause of shaking after installing new tires is bent or damaged wheels. Wheels can become bent or damaged in several ways:

• Hitting a deep pothole or curb at higher speeds can bend the wheel rim.
• Driving over debris in the road like rocks, branches, or construction materials can dent or crack a wheel.
• Manufacturing defects in the wheel itself, while rare, can lead to imbalances or structural issues.

Signs that you may have a bent or damaged wheel include:

• Noticeable vibrations in the steering wheel, seat, or floorboards when driving
• Uneven tire wear patterns, with more wear on one side of the tire
• The car pulling to one side while driving straight
• Visual dents, cracks, or bends in the wheel itself

A bent or damaged wheel affects ride quality and safety. Even a slight bend can cause the tire to meet the road at an incorrect angle, leading to shaking, vibrations, and premature tire wear. Dents or cracks can weaken the structural integrity of the wheel over time.

If you suspect a bent or damaged wheel, it’s crucial to have it inspected and potentially replaced. Continuing to drive on a bent wheel increases tire wear and suspension component strain, compounding the issue. Cracked or severely damaged wheels are hazardous and should be replaced immediately.

Improper Tire Inflation

Improper tire inflation is a common culprit behind a shaking car after installing new tires. Both over-inflated and under-inflated tires can cause vibrations and shaking at various speeds.

Over-inflated Tires

When tires are over-inflated, they have a smaller contact patch with the road surface. This reduced contact area leads to a rougher ride and increased vibrations, especially at higher speeds. Over-inflation also causes the center of the tire to wear out faster than the edges, creating an uneven wear pattern that contributes to shaking.

Under-inflated Tires

Under-inflated tires have the opposite problem – too much contact with the road. This excessive contact creates increased friction and heat buildup, which can lead to premature tire wear and potential blowouts. Under-inflation also allows the tire’s sidewalls to flex more than intended, resulting in a bouncy, unstable ride and shaking sensations.

Checking Tire Pressure

To avoid issues caused by improper inflation, it’s crucial to check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) levels. The recommended PSI can typically be found in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

When checking tire pressure, ensure you measure the PSI when the tires are cold (driven less than a mile). Warm tires will give an inaccurate, higher pressure reading. Use a high-quality tire gauge for precise measurements, and adjust the pressure as needed by adding or releasing air.

By keeping your tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI, you’ll not only reduce shaking and vibrations but also improve fuel efficiency, increase tread life, and enhance overall handling and safety.

Worn Suspension Components

One of the most common culprits behind a shaky ride after new tire installation is worn suspension components. The suspension system is responsible for absorbing bumps and providing a smooth, controlled ride. When parts like shocks, struts, or control arms wear out, they can no longer effectively dampen vibrations, leading to shakiness and instability, especially at higher speeds.

Shocks and Struts

Shocks and struts are the primary dampening components of the suspension system. Their job is to control the up-and-down motion of the vehicle’s springs, preventing excessive bouncing and ensuring a smooth ride. Over time, these components can wear out due to age, high mileage, or exposure to rough terrain.

Worn shocks and struts lose their ability to effectively dampen vibrations, resulting in a bouncy, unstable ride. This can be especially noticeable after installing new tires, as the fresh tread may amplify any existing suspension issues. Worn shocks and struts can also cause excessive tire wear, as the tires are not being properly supported and controlled.

Control Arms

Control arms are pivoting suspension components that connect the wheel hub to the vehicle’s frame. They play a crucial role in keeping the wheels properly aligned and maintaining the correct suspension geometry. When control arms become worn or bent, they can cause the wheels to shift out of alignment, leading to vibrations and shakiness.

Worn control arm bushings can also contribute to suspension-related vibrations. These bushings are designed to isolate the control arms from the vehicle’s frame, preventing excessive vibrations from being transmitted to the cabin. As the bushings deteriorate, they lose their ability to dampen vibrations effectively, resulting in a rougher, shakier ride.

If you suspect that worn suspension components are the cause of your car’s shakiness after new tire installation, it’s essential to have a professional inspect and replace any worn parts. Continuing to drive with a compromised suspension system can lead to further damage, increased tire wear, and potential safety issues.

Brake Issues Causing Shaking

When you get new tires installed, any existing issues with your brake system can become more noticeable and cause shaking or vibration. Two common brake problems that lead to shaking are warped rotors and stuck brake calipers.

Warped Rotors

Your brake rotors can develop grooves or become warped over time from the extreme heat and friction involved in braking. When the brake pads clamp down on warped areas of the rotors, it causes a pulsating sensation that translates into vibration throughout the vehicle. This pulsation happens every rotation of the wheels.

Warped rotors create an uneven surface that the brake pads can’t grip uniformly. This uneven contact makes the brakes apply force inconsistently, leading to shaking or juddering when braking. The vibrations can sometimes be felt even when not actively braking if the warping is severe enough.

Stuck Brake Calipers

The brake calipers are what house the brake pads and physically press them against the rotors to slow your vehicle. If a caliper becomes stuck or seized, it will not release its grip on the rotor fully when you take your foot off the brake pedal.

A stuck caliper keeps the brake pad applying slight pressure and dragging on the rotor as you accelerate. This constant friction and uneven application of the brakes results in noticeable shaking and vibration at higher speeds. The shaking may decrease or stop when braking if the stuck caliper can equalize pressure.

Proper brake maintenance and periodic inspections are important for ensuring smooth braking performance and minimizing shaking after new tires are installed. Ignoring brake issues can accelerate rotor and pad wear while compromising safety.

Diagnosing the Cause of Shaking

Determining the root cause of shaking after getting new tires involves a process of elimination. Start by checking the easy things first before moving on to more complex components.

Tire Inspection
The first step is to carefully inspect the new tires for any visible signs of an issue. Look for bulges, cracks, or uneven tread wear that could indicate an underlying problem. Check that the tires are properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI.

Balance Check
An unbalanced tire is one of the most common causes of shaking or vibration. Many tire shops will balance new tires, but it’s possible they missed something. Have the tires re-balanced and see if that resolves the issue.

Visual Wheel Inspection
Next, take a close look at the wheels themselves. Check for any signs of damage like bends, dents, or cracks. Even a slightly bent wheel can cause shaking at higher speeds.

Suspension Inspection
If the tires, balance, and wheels check out, the suspension is the next likely culprit. Inspect components like shocks, struts, control arms, and bushings for signs of excessive wear or damage. Bounce each corner to check for looseness.

Brake Inspection
Brake issues can sometimes manifest as shaking as well. Check for stuck or dragging brake calipers, warped rotors, or an unevenly worn brake pad. The shaking may be most noticeable when braking.

Test Drive
Throughout the diagnostic process, take the vehicle for test drives between inspections. Note at what speeds the shaking starts and whether it’s a vibration, pulsation, or violent shaking. This can help pinpoint the root cause.

If you’ve thoroughly checked all the above and still can’t identify the issue, it may be time to have a professional mechanic take a look. They have the expertise and equipment to properly diagnose even tricky shaking issues.

DIY Shaking Fixes

If your car is shaking after getting new tires, there are several DIY fixes you can try before taking it to a professional mechanic. However, it’s important to diagnose the root cause correctly to avoid further damage or safety issues.

Tire Balancing

One of the most common causes of shaking after new tires is improper balancing. You can balance your tires at home using a balancing kit, which typically includes weights and a bubble balancer. Here are the steps:

1. Prepare the Workspace: Find a level surface and ensure your car is in park with the parking brake engaged.
2. Remove Wheels: Loosen the lug nuts and remove each wheel one by one.
3. Mount the Bubble Balancer: Follow the instructions to mount the bubble balancer on each wheel.
4. Add Weights: Spin the wheel and observe where the bubble settles. Add weights to the opposite side until the bubble remains centered.
5. Repeat for All Wheels: Balance all four wheels using the same process.

Proper tire balancing can significantly reduce vibrations and improve ride quality.

Brake Repairs

If the shaking seems to be coming from the front end, it could be due to brake issues. You can inspect and replace brake pads and rotors at home with the right tools and knowledge.

1. Remove Wheels: Follow the same process as tire balancing to remove the front wheels.
2. Inspect Brake Pads: Check the thickness of the brake pads and replace them if they’re worn down.
3. Check Rotors: Inspect the rotors for grooves, warping, or excessive wear. If necessary, replace them with new rotors.
4. Reassemble: Once the new pads and rotors are installed, reassemble the brakes and wheels.

Replacing worn brake components can eliminate shaking caused by brake issues.

Suspension Replacements

If the shaking persists, worn suspension components could be the culprit. While more complex, some suspension parts can be replaced at home with the right tools and guidance.

1. Inspect Shocks and Struts: Check for leaks, damage, or excessive wear on the shocks and struts.
2. Replace Worn Parts: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to replace worn shocks, struts, or other suspension components.
3. Align the Suspension: After replacement, ensure the suspension is properly aligned to avoid further issues.

Replacing worn suspension parts can restore proper handling and eliminate shaking caused by a failing suspension system.

It’s crucial to exercise caution and follow safety protocols when working on your vehicle. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with any DIY repairs, it’s best to seek professional assistance to avoid potential damage or injury.

When to Take Your Car to a Professional

While some causes of shaking after new tire installation can be diagnosed and remedied at home, there are situations where professional mechanical assistance is advisable or even necessary for safety reasons. Complex repairs involving components like wheel bearings, CV axles, or suspension components typically require the expertise and tools of an automotive technician. Similarly, if the shaking seems to be originating from the braking system, it’s best to have a mechanic inspect and repair any issues to ensure proper brake operation and prevent further damage or safety hazards.

Signs that you should take your vehicle to a professional mechanic for evaluation include:

• Severe or violent shaking that makes the vehicle feel unstable or unsafe to operate
• Shaking that persists after attempting DIY fixes like balancing, rotations, etc.
• Unusual noises like grinding, knocking, or clunking accompanying the shaking
• Shaking that seems to be coming from the wheel bearings or CV axles
• Pulling or wandering during the shaking, indicating potential alignment or suspension issues

While DIY repairs can resolve some shaking causes, it’s essential to prioritize safety and know when a trained mechanic’s expertise is required. Complex drivetrain, suspension, or brake system repairs are best left to professionals with the proper tools and diagnostic equipment to accurately identify and correct the underlying issue causing the shaking.

Costs of Repairing Shakes From New Tires

The costs of repairing shakes from new tires can vary depending on the underlying cause and the extent of the repairs needed. Here are some average pricing estimates for common repairs:

Tire Balancing
If the shaking is caused by unbalanced tires, having them balanced at a tire shop typically costs between $15 to $50 per tire. This is often the most affordable fix for tire-related shakes.

Brake Repairs
If the shaking is due to issues with the brakes, such as warped rotors or worn brake pads, the costs can range from $200 to $800 or more depending on the make and model of your vehicle and the extent of the repairs needed.

Suspension Repairs
Worn suspension components like shocks, struts, or control arm bushings can also cause shaking, especially at higher speeds. Replacing these parts can cost anywhere from $250 to $1,000 or more per component, depending on the complexity of the repair and the labor costs at your mechanic.

Wheel Repairs or Replacement
If the shaking is caused by bent or damaged wheels, the repair costs can vary widely. Straightening a bent wheel may cost $50 to $150 per wheel, while replacing a wheel can range from $200 to $800 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

It’s essential to have a qualified mechanic diagnose the root cause of the shaking before attempting any repairs. In some cases, a combination of repairs may be necessary to resolve the issue completely. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to get multiple quotes from reputable mechanics to ensure you’re getting a fair price for the necessary repairs.

Preventing Future Shaking Issues

Proper maintenance and regular inspections can go a long way in preventing shaking issues after getting new tires. Here are some tips to help avoid vibrations and ensure a smooth ride:

Tire Rotation and Balancing: Follow the recommended schedule for tire rotations, typically every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. This helps ensure even wear and prevents premature tire damage that can cause shaking. Additionally, have your tires balanced during each rotation to ensure proper weight distribution.

Wheel Alignment: Misaligned wheels can cause uneven tire wear and lead to shaking or vibrations. Have your wheel alignment checked at least once a year or whenever you notice uneven tread wear.

Suspension Inspection: Worn or damaged suspension components, such as shocks, struts, or control arm bushings, can contribute to shaking and vibrations. Have your suspension system inspected regularly, especially if you notice any unusual noises or handling issues.

Brake System Checks: Warped or damaged brake rotors, worn brake pads, or other brake system issues can cause shaking or pulsation during braking. Have your brakes inspected and serviced as recommended by the manufacturer.

Tire Pressure Monitoring: Maintain proper tire pressure according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Underinflated or overinflated tires can cause uneven wear and lead to shaking or vibrations.

Visual Inspections: Regularly inspect your tires for signs of damage, such as bulges, cracks, or uneven wear patterns. Also, check your wheels for any visible damage or bends that could contribute to shaking.

By following these maintenance and inspection tips, you can help ensure that your new tires provide a smooth and comfortable ride, minimizing the risk of shaking or vibrations. Additionally, addressing any issues promptly can prevent further damage and extend the life of your tires and vehicle components.

When to Replace Tires to Avoid Shaking

Replacing tires at the right time is crucial to prevent shaking issues and ensure a smooth, safe ride. Even if your tires don’t show visible signs of wear, they can degrade over time due to factors like age, heat exposure, and oxidation. Here are some key indicators that it’s time to replace your tires:

Tire Age

Most tire manufacturers recommend replacing tires after six years, regardless of tread depth. As tires age, the rubber compound starts to break down, leading to reduced traction, increased risk of blowouts, and potential shaking or vibration issues. Check the tire sidewall for the DOT code, which includes the week and year of manufacture.

Tread Depth

Tires with insufficient tread depth can cause shaking, especially in wet conditions. The legal minimum tread depth is 2/32 of an inch, but it’s recommended to replace tires when the tread reaches 4/32 of an inch or lower. Use a tread depth gauge or the penny test (insert a penny upside down into the tread groove – if you can see all of Lincoln’s head, it’s time for new tires) to measure your tread.

Uneven Wear

If your tires show signs of uneven wear, such as bald spots or cupping, it can lead to shaking and vibration. Uneven wear can be caused by improper inflation, misalignment, or worn suspension components. Replacing tires with uneven wear is essential to restore balanced traction and a smooth ride.

Bulges or Cracks

Visible bulges or cracks in the sidewall or tread area are signs of internal tire damage, which can lead to blowouts and shaking issues. If you notice these signs, replace the affected tires immediately, as they pose a serious safety risk.

By keeping an eye on these indicators and replacing your tires promptly, you can minimize the risk of shaking and vibration issues, ensuring a safer and more comfortable driving experience.

FAQs: What Causes Car Shaking After New Tires?