Questions and Answers

Toyota Camry Vibration While Braking Q. Hello Vincent! I have a 1997 Toyota Camry XLS, automatic transmission and approximately 85,000 miles. Recently, although it handles completely fine and drives straight, it has developed a problem when braking. If I am driving along at, say, 35 mph and I brake firmly, as I might do at a stoplight, the steering wheel shakes.

It seems to shake in proportion to the force with which I brake, a faster, firmer brake means more shaking, a lighter brake with a longer stopping distance results in less vibration. Would appreciate any suggestions you might have as to the potential cause(s).

Thank you very much!
Miriam

A. The most likely cause is warped brake rotors. If the brake rotors are not true and parallel, they will cause a pulsation or vibration. You should have the brakes and rotors checked as soon as you can.

When the rotors are checked, they should be checked for thickness, no less than 1.024" for the front, 0.354" for the rear, and runout, no more than 0.0020" for the front and 0.0059" rear.

Another possibility is bad or worn front end parts , ball joints, tie rod ends, etc.