Why is my 2015 Chrysler 200 shaking while driving?

Vibrations in a 2015 Chrysler 200 while you’re on the move are most often caused by wheel and tire issues, but they can also point to drivetrain, suspension, or engine problems. Start with the simplest checks and move toward a professional diagnosis if the shake persists.

When a car shakes during driving, it can feel differently depending on speed, braking, and acceleration. Understanding where the vibration originates helps you address the root cause more quickly and safely. Below are the common culprits and practical steps to diagnose them.

Common causes of shaking

This list covers the main categories that typically produce a perceptible shake in a Chrysler 200. It helps you distinguish whether the problem is tire/wheel-related, related to brakes and suspension, or tied to the engine and transmission.

Wheel and tire issues

• Unbalanced wheels or tires leading to highway-speed vibration


• Damaged or bent rims that throw the wheel out of true


• Tire wear patterns, cupping, or flat spots from aggressive driving or poor alignment


• Under- or over-inflated tires causing irregular contact with the road


• Bulges, bubbles, or belt separation inside the tire

Wheel and tire problems are the most common cause of a shake that you feel through the steering wheel or the floor, especially at higher speeds. They’re also the easiest to diagnose and fix with a visit to a tire shop or mechanic.

Brakes, suspension, and steering components

• Warped brake rotors or drums causing pulsation during braking


• Worn brake pads or uneven rotor wear that creates a pulsating feel


• Worn or damaged suspension parts (tie rods, control arms, ball joints, bushings)


• Misalignment or worn steering components that cause pulling or vibrations



• CV joints or damaged CV boots that affect steering stability

Vibrations tied to braking, steering, or road contact often point to components in the brake or suspension system. These parts can degrade over time and lead to noticeable shaking that worsens with speed or when turning.

Engine and transmission issues

• Engine misfire from faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors causing rough running


• Torque converter shudder or transmission issues in automatic transmissions


• Low or degraded transmission fluid affecting smooth operation


• Worn engine mounts or transmission mounts transferring more vibration to the chassis

When the shake is accompanied by rough idle, misfire symptoms, or abnormal engine noises, the problem may lie with the powertrain. A diagnostic scan can help identify misfire codes or transmission concerns.

If you notice signs like a steering-wheel wobble at highway speeds, a rhythmic vibration during acceleration, or vibration that changes with braking, you should inspect the relevant systems promptly. A professional inspection is advisable if basic checks don’t reveal a clear cause.

Diagnostics and next steps

The following step-by-step approach helps you systematically identify the source of the shake and decide whether you can fix it yourself or need a shop visit.

1. Check tire pressures and look for obvious tire or wheel damage. Ensure all tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressures and inspect for bulges, cuts, or uneven wear.


2. Inspect the wheels for runout or wobble. A damaged rim or a tire with a separated belt can cause vibration even when the tire appears inflated.


3. Test for balance issues. If the vibration is mainly at higher speeds (e.g., above 40–50 mph), wheel balancing or alignment may be needed. Have a shop verify balance and alignment.


4. Check for brake-related signs. If shaking occurs primarily when applying the brakes, inspect rotor surface for warping and inspect brake pads and calipers for uneven wear.


5. Assess the suspension and steering components. Look for looseness, play in tie rods, or worn ball joints. Listen for clunking noises when driving over bumps.


6. Evaluate engine and transmission health. If the shake is present at idle, during acceleration, or feels like it’s related to RPMs, consider an engine misfire check (spark plugs, coils, injectors) and review transmission fluid level and condition.


7. Check engine and transmission mounts. Excessive vibration during acceleration or idle can come from worn mounts that transfer more engine vibration to the cabin.


8. Read trouble codes if you have access to an OBD-II scanner. Codes related to misfire, misadjusted idle, or transmission faults can guide diagnostics.


9. If you cannot identify the source or the issue persists after basic checks, schedule a professional inspection. Driving with unresolved vibrations can cause further damage or compromise safety.

Proper diagnosis often requires hands-on inspection and test drives. A qualified technician can perform wheel torque checks, rotor runout measurements, alignment tests, and a pressure- and fluid-level assessment to pinpoint the cause.

Summary

Shaking in a 2015 Chrysler 200 is most commonly caused by wheel and tire problems, but can also originate from brakes, suspension, steering, engine, or transmission issues. Start with simple tire checks, balance, and alignment, then inspect brakes and suspension. If the shake persists after these checks, seek a professional diagnostic to prevent further damage and ensure safe driving.