why does my Honda Accord shake when I brake

Honda Accord 9th Generation (2013-2017)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

high

Severity

3 min read

499 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Discover why your Honda Accord shakes when braking. Follow our detailed guide for symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions to resolve the issue.

Affected Component

Brakes

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always engage the parking brake and use jack stands when working under the vehicle.
•Allow the vehicle to cool before working on the brake components to prevent burns.

Symptoms

•Vibration felt in the steering wheel during braking
•Pulsating brake pedal
•Uneven wear on brake pads or rotors
•Noise coming from the brakes (squeaking or grinding)
•Vehicle pulls to one side when braking

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect brake rotors for warping or uneven wear.
2
Check brake pads for thickness and wear pattern.
3
Examine suspension components (tie rods, ball joints) for play or damage.
4
Test wheel balance and alignment.
5
Scan for any error codes that might indicate an ABS issue.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Jack and jack stands
•Lug wrench
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Pry bar (for suspension inspection)

Parts Required

•Brake rotors (if warped)
•Brake pads (if worn)
•Suspension components (if damaged)

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Solution

1. Preparation

Gather tools and parts.
Park the vehicle on a flat, stable surface and engage the parking brake.
Disconnect the battery if necessary (for vehicles with ABS).

2. Raise the Vehicle

Use a jack to lift the front or rear of the vehicle, depending on where the issue is suspected.
Secure with jack stands for safety.

3. Remove Wheels

Use a lug wrench to remove the wheel nuts and take off the wheels to access the brake components.

4. Inspect and Replace Brake Components

A. Inspect Brake Rotors

Check for warping using a dial indicator or by visually inspecting the surface.
If warped, remove the rotor using a socket set and replace with a new rotor.

B. Inspect Brake Pads

Check the thickness of the brake pads.
If worn beyond the manufacturer’s specifications (usually below 3mm), replace the pads.

5. Inspect Suspension Components

Check for play in tie rods and ball joints using a pry bar or by visually inspecting.
Replace any worn components as necessary.

6. Reassemble and Lower Vehicle

Reinstall the wheels and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
Lower the vehicle and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

7. Final Checks

Reconnect the battery if it was disconnected.
Check brake fluid level and top off if necessary.