2002 Nissan Altima - Vibrates when brake

[ptwob234]

The car drives nicely but vibrates the steering wheel when I brake. The vibrations increase the harder I apply the brakes. I'm wondering if is something with the brake pads, alignment, or ABS? I haven't had a chance to look at anything yet and am just wondering where to start. Any suggestions?

Thanks...

[JustSayGo]

Replace the front brake rotors and use premium low dust brake pads. Look at the rear brakes to see if there may be a reason that they are not doing their share of the stopping and overloading the front brakes. If you have rear disc brakes, replace the rear brake pads with the identicle quality of the new front pads.

[ptwob234]

You think it is a problem with the rotors and not just the pads?

[JustSayGo]

Yes. The shaking is caused by the front brake rotors wobbleing a little bit. Many people call them warped rotors. Altima brake rotors are easy to replace and fairly inexpenssive. Front rotors cost $31.50 ea. at AutoZone. Ceramic, low dust, front pads like OEM quality that your Altima came with cost about the same with shipping. If you spend $200 on brake parts your car will stop better, without vibrating and squeeking, and won't make your wheels dirty. You could pay $1200 with labor for less quality.

[ptwob234]

Thanks for the information. I'll check into that and see what I can do! I appreciate it...