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2018 Charger R/T - Steering Wheel Shakes When Braking

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Nicole W. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:43 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Dodge Charger R/T

Hey everyone,

I've got a 2018 Dodge Charger R/T with about 70,000 miles on it, and I'm starting to experience a really annoying issue. Whenever I apply the brakes, especially at highway speeds, the steering wheel starts to shake pretty noticeably. It feels like a pulsing sensation through the pedal too.

I had the brakes done (pads and rotors) about 20,000 miles ago at a local shop, but this problem has just started in the last few weeks. It's getting worse, and I'm worried it might be something serious.

Any ideas what could be causing this? Is it just warped rotors again, or could it be something else with the suspension or steering? Thanks for any help!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:43 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A shaking steering wheel and pulsating brake pedal when braking, especially at higher speeds, is a very common symptom, and it usually points to issues within your braking system.

Here's a breakdown of potential causes and what to do:

  1. Warped Brake Rotors: This is the most frequent culprit. Rotors can warp due to excessive heat, improper installation, or uneven wear. When warped, the rotor surface isn't perfectly flat, causing the brake pads to grab unevenly, which translates to the pulsation and steering wheel shake.

    • Action: Have a qualified technician inspect your rotors. They might be able to be resurfaced (turned) if there's enough material left and the warping isn't severe, but often replacement is the best solution for lasting relief.

  2. Uneven Brake Pad Wear: While less common than warped rotors, unevenly worn pads can also contribute to a similar sensation. This could be due to sticking caliper pins or a faulty caliper.

    • Action: A brake inspection will reveal pad wear patterns. If uneven, the underlying cause (e.g., caliper issue) needs to be addressed.

  3. Loose or Worn Suspension Components: While the primary cause is usually brakes, worn tie rod ends, ball joints, or control arm bushings can exacerbate vibrations or even be a secondary cause if they're severely compromised.

    • Action: During the brake inspection, ask the technician to also check for play in your front suspension and steering components.

  4. Wheel Bearing Issues: A failing wheel bearing can cause vibrations, but typically these are more constant and not solely tied to braking. However, a severely worn bearing could contribute.

    • Action: A technician can check for play in the wheel bearing.

When to See a Shop: You should get this checked out by a professional automotive shop as soon as possible. While often just an annoyance, brake system issues can compromise your vehicle's stopping power and safety. Ignoring it can lead to more severe damage to other components and potentially dangerous driving conditions. A thorough inspection will pinpoint the exact cause and ensure your Charger's braking system is safe and effective.

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