Ever wondered why your car starts shaking at 60 mph? Well, there are actually several reasons why this happens. One of the most common causes is worn-out tires that lack balance, making it difficult for the car to drive smoothly at higher speeds. Another culprit could be the brake caliper, which can become “sticky” and cause the steering wheel to vibrate. Additionally, issues with the brake rotors, overinflated or underinflated tires, misfiring spark plugs, transmission problems, worn-out suspension, and axle issues can all contribute to the car shaking at 60 mph. So if you’ve been experiencing this problem, read on to find out more about the potential causes and solutions.
Reasons Why Your Car Shakes at 60 Mph
If you’ve ever experienced your car shaking at 60 mph, you know how unnerving and uncomfortable it can be. It can make you feel unsafe and unsure about the condition of your vehicle. But why does this happen? We’re here to shed some light on the possible reasons behind this issue.
1. Worn Tires
One of the most common causes of a shaky car at higher speeds is worn tires. When your tires are worn out, they can lose their balance, causing your steering wheel to vibrate. This lack of balance makes it difficult for your car to drive smoothly and increases the likelihood of shaking at faster speeds. You may not notice any difference below 50 mph, but once you hit 60 mph, the shakiness becomes more apparent.
2. Brake Caliper
Another culprit behind a shaking car at 60 mph could be your brake caliper. The brake caliper is a part of your car’s brake system that helps slow down the wheels. When the brake calipers become sticky, it can cause your steering wheel to vibrate, making it challenging to drive straight. As you drive faster, the shaking can worsen because the brake caliper has to work harder. If you also notice a burning smell, especially when you stop your car, it could be a sign that your brake caliper is the cause of the shaking.
3. Brake Rotors
Your brake rotors can also contribute to a shaky car at high speeds. When the brake rotors are out of round, usually due to warping, they can cause your steering wheel and car to shake. This often happens when you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic or apply your brakes heavily. Additionally, dirt buildup on the rotors can further exacerbate the shaking issue.
4. Overinflated Tires
While worn-out tires can cause shaking at 60 mph, the same can also occur with overinflated tires. Overinflation can make your driving experience uncomfortable and lead to a shaky ride. This is especially noticeable if only one or a few tires are overinflated, as it creates an imbalance and makes the car unstable at higher speeds.
5. Underinflated Tires
Conversely, underinflated tires can also result in a shaky car when driving at 60 mph. When one or more tires are underinflated, it creates an unevenness that can lead to shaking. Ensuring that your tires are properly inflated is crucial for a smooth and safe driving experience.
6. Misfiring Spark Plugs
Misfiring spark plugs can be another cause of a shaking car. Spark plugs are essential for igniting the fuel and air mixture in your engine to generate power. When a spark plug is old or dirty, it can misfire, causing your car to shake. Usually, misfiring spark plugs are more noticeable when you’re idling or stopping, but they can also occur while driving at higher speeds.
7. Transmission
Issues with your car’s transmission can manifest in shaking at 60 mph. The extent and nature of the shaking will depend on whether you have an automatic or manual transmission. Generally, transitioning into gear and shifting gears can cause more shaking than expected. If you have an automatic transmission, you may not notice the shaking as much, but if your check engine light is on, there could be an underlying issue.
8. Low Transmission Fluid
Insufficient transmission fluid can contribute to a shaky car. Transmission fluid is vital for keeping the gears running smoothly by lubricating the moving parts. When there is a low level of transmission fluid, the gears may not have enough lubrication, leading to shaking. This issue can occur at any speed but becomes more prominent when changing gears.
9. Clutch Master Cylinder
If you drive a manual car, a leaking clutch master cylinder may be the cause of the shaking. To determine if your clutch master cylinder is the culprit, check the bulkhead near your brake cylinder for any signs of a leak.
10. Worn Out Suspension
A worn-out suspension can also contribute to a shaky car. When there is looseness in the steering system or suspension, it can cause the steering wheel to shake, resulting in a shaky overall driving experience.
11. Axle Issues
If you’ve recently experienced a collision or hit a bump, your car may be shaking due to axle problems. A damaged or bent axle can cause significant vibrations, which intensify as you drive faster.
In conclusion, there are several potential reasons why your car shakes at 60 mph. Issues with tires, brakes, suspension, transmission, spark plugs, and axles can all contribute to this unsettling problem. If you’re experiencing persistent shaking, it’s crucial to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic to identify and address the underlying issue. Maintaining and addressing these issues will ensure a safer and smoother driving experience.