Winters in New England, may be harsh on your vehicle and you may have noticed your vehicle shaking after a snowstorm.
Snow and ice accumulation can have a considerable impact on vehicle performance, especially in terms of vibrations and shaking. If you are having this issue, you are not alone. Let’s look at why this happens, how to avoid it, and what to do if your car starts shaking.
How Do Snow and Ice Cause Car Shaking?
- Wheel Imbalance Due to Ice Buildup:
Ice is one of the most prevalent causes of car shaking in the winter is ice accumulation inside the wheels. Snow and slush can attach to the rims’ inner surface and freeze when temperatures drop, resulting in an imbalanced wheel. This mismatch causes vibrations, particularly at high speeds. - Frozen Brake Components:
Ice can accumulate around brake calipers, rotors, or pads, causing uneven braking and vibrations during stops. If ice hinders appropriate contact between these components, applying the brakes may result in a pulsing feeling. - Suspension and steering stiffness:
Extreme cold can stiffen rubber bushings, shocks, and struts, causing increased vibrations. Additionally, ice buildup around suspension components might cause temporary misalignment or increased difficulty when turning. - Tire Flats and Pressure Drops:
Cold weather can cause tire pressure to drop dramatically. Underinflated tires produce poor traction and an uneven ride. Furthermore, if your automobile stays in the cold for an extended amount of time, the tires may develop temporary flat patches, causing the vehicle to tremble until they warm up and return to shape.
Preventative Measures
- Regularly Clear Snow and Ice from Wheels:
After driving in snow or slush, inspect your wheels and remove any ice accumulation. A simple kick to the tires or the use of warm (but not boiling) water will assist loosen frozen slush. - Keep Tire Pressure in Check:
Monitor your tire pressure on a regular basis and stick to the specified PSI levels for your Audi or Volkswagen. Low tire pressure can increase vibrations and cause uneven tire wear. - Park in a garage or use a car cover:
To avoid ice collection, park in a garage whenever possible. If a garage is not accessible, a weatherproof car cover can help avoid snow buildup on critical components. - Use snow-resistant waxes and sealants:
Applying a winter-grade wax or sealant to your wheels and undercarriage can help lessen the adhesion of snow and ice, making it easier to remove before driving. - Use professional undercoating services:
Undercoating is corrosion resistant product that is applied to the undercarriage of your vehicle. A must have for those living in New England experiencing harsh winters.
Common Solutions For These Issues
- Remove ice and snow manually:
If your automobile starts shaking after a snowfall, check the wheels for ice accumulation. If you locate any frozen bits, remove them and drive again to see if the shaking stops. - Visit a car wash:
A high-pressure car wash can assist remove ice from hard-to-reach locations. Some facilities provide undercarriage cleaning, which is especially important during winter maintenance. - Let the car warm up:
Allow your automobile to idle for a few minutes before driving so that the components can warm up and free any frozen parts. - Get a professional inspection:
If the shaking continues after the ice is removed, it could be a sign of another problem, such as wheel misalignment, worn suspension components, or braking troubles. Our Hooksett, NH facility specializes in Audi and Volkswagen servicing, and we can promptly diagnose and repair any winter-related car difficulties.
New England winters can be harsh on your Audi or Volkswagen, but with proper maintenance and precautions, you can reduce the impact of snow and ice on your vehicle. If you’re experiencing persistent shaking, don’t ignore it; take your car in for a professional inspection. Our Hooksett, NH facility has the experience to keep your car running smoothly throughout the winter.
Are you ready to get your vehicle winter ready? Schedule an appointment today on our website!