Possibly warped rotors and brake pads?

MAKINZIEG97

MEMBER
2016 KIA OPTIMA
2WD
AUTOMATIC
60,000 MILES

Whenever I step on my brakes while going downhill at speeds higher than 50 MPH my steering wheel starts shaking and when I’m stopping my car the car begins to pulsate while I step on the brakes. Any possible idea what this is? I can get my vehicle diagnosed but I’d rather save that money towards the cost it’s going to be to fix it in the near future.

Wednesday, July 5th, 2023 AT 11:05 PM

2 Replies

JAY-DOUG

MEMBER
7 POSTS

Does this issue only happen when braking downhill? What it sounds like to me is your brake rotors/discs are “warped”. This can happen due to old age which then the rotors will become thinner and thinner and eventually warp or excessive/hard braking which will then cause them to become very hot and warp. When you’re replacing your rotors you will want to also replace the brake pads as those will have uneven wear from bad rotors. I’ve had vehicle do this before and replaced the rotors and pads and had no more pulsating in the steering wheel. Let me know if that solves your issue. Thanks

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Thursday, July 6th, 2023 AT 12:56 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,126 POSTS

Hi,

What you described does sound like the brake rotors. Since you feel it most in the steering, it is likely the front brakes.

As far as the rotors are concerned, the brake pads should be replaced at the same time. Additionally, make sure the slid pins are free and there is no rust built up on the caliper mount where the brake pads sit.

Here is a link that explains in general how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-front-brake-pads-and-rotors-fwd

Let me know if this helps or if you have questions.

Take care,

Joe

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Thursday, July 6th, 2023 AT 10:21 PM