The largest online repair guide library for every car

About us
Contact support
FAQ
Sign up
Sign in

Pulsing Brakes and Steering Wheel Shake on my 2018 Charger R/T

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:16 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Dodge Charger R/T

Hey everyone,

I've been noticing a weird issue with my 2018 Dodge Charger R/T lately. When I hit the brakes, especially at highway speeds, I get a really noticeable pulsing sensation through the pedal, and the steering wheel starts to shake pretty violently. It's not just a little shimmy; it's enough to make me feel a bit uneasy.

I've got about 65,000 miles on it, and I haven't had the brakes serviced beyond regular pad changes. Could this be warped rotors? Or something more serious? Any thoughts on what I should check first? Thanks for the help!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 4:16 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

It sounds like you're experiencing a common issue that typically points to problems with your braking system. Here's what's likely happening and what you can do:

Common Causes:

  • Warped Brake Rotors: This is the most frequent cause of pulsing brakes and steering wheel shake. Overheating from heavy braking can cause the rotors to develop uneven surfaces, leading to the pulsation as the pads grab and release on these high and low spots.
  • Uneven Brake Pad Wear: While less common than warped rotors, unevenly worn pads can also contribute to a pulsing sensation.
  • Loose Wheel Bearings: Though less likely to be the primary cause of pulsing brakes, a loose or failing wheel bearing can introduce excessive play, leading to vibration that might be exacerbated during braking.
  • Suspension Components: Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, or control arm bushings can sometimes manifest as vibrations, especially under braking, but the direct pulsing in the pedal usually points to the brake system itself.

Troubleshooting Steps:

  1. Inspect Rotors and Pads: Visually inspect your front and rear brake rotors for any visible grooves, discoloration (blue/purple spots indicating overheating), or uneven wear. Check your brake pads for thickness and even wear.
  2. Check for Runout: A mechanic can measure rotor runout (how much the rotor wobbles as it spins) with a dial indicator. This is the definitive way to confirm warped rotors.
  3. Wheel Bearing Check: While the wheel is off the ground, try to rock it side-to-side and top-to-bottom to check for excessive play, which could indicate a worn wheel bearing.

When to See a Shop:

You should definitely have your Charger inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. Braking issues can compromise your safety. A qualified technician can:

  • Accurately diagnose the cause of the pulsation and vibration.
  • Recommend whether your rotors need to be resurfaced (if they're thick enough) or replaced.
  • Replace brake pads if necessary and ensure all brake components are functioning correctly.
  • Check for any related suspension or steering issues that might be contributing to the problem.

Ignoring this issue can lead to reduced braking performance and potentially unsafe driving conditions.

Menu

Help & account