Why Does a Car Pull to One Side? 5 Causes

A car pulling to one side is a common complaint, and alignment is often assumed to be the only cause. In fact, several different causes are possible.

1. Tyre pressure difference

A pressure difference between the two front tyres pulls the car towards the lower-pressure side. This is the first thing to check.

2. Wheel alignment

A difference in camber or caster between the left and right wheels pulls the car to one side. It is identified precisely with a 3D alignment measurement.

3. Tyre conicity

Even a new tyre can cause pulling due to conicity from manufacturing. If the pull changes direction when the front tyres are swapped, the tyre is the cause.

4. Brake caliper

A sticking caliper pulls the car to that side, especially during and after braking; the wheel on that side also runs hotter than normal.

5. Front-end parts

A worn control arm bushing or ball joint causes a pull that varies with the road surface.

In our workshop we first check tyre pressures and tyres, take a short test drive if needed and then measure. This avoids unnecessary work.